Renting in Chicago is more approachable than NYC or LA, but it still requires preparation. The good news? Chicago has strong tenant protections under the RLTO, more affordable rents, and distinct neighborhoods for every lifestyle. This guide covers everything first-time renters need to know.
Welcome to Chicago Apartment Hunting
Before diving in, here's what you should know: Chicago's rental market is competitive but fair. The city's RLTO provides strong tenant protections, and there are great apartments at every price point.
Use StreetSmart to research any building for free1. Understanding the Budget
The 2.5-3x Rule
Most Chicago landlords require your monthly income to be 2.5-3 times the monthly rent. This is more flexible than NYC's stricter requirements.
Income Requirements
Don't Meet Income Requirements? You May Need a Guarantor
A guarantor is someone (usually a parent or relative) who co-signs your lease and agrees to pay if you can't. Guarantors typically need to earn 3-4x the monthly rent.
No guarantor available? Some Chicago landlords accept larger security deposits or proof of savings. Services like Insurent and TheGuarantors also operate in Chicago.
Upfront Costs
Chicago requires less cash upfront than NYC, but still budget for:
What You'll Pay at Signing
For a $1,800/month apartment, that's ~$4,500-5,400 due at signing.
Learn about broker fees in Chicago →
2. Documents You'll Need
Chicago rental applications are straightforward. Have these ready before you start looking:
Application Document Checklist
- Government-issued photo ID
- Social Security number
- 2-3 recent pay stubs
- Employment verification letter
- Bank statements (1-2 months)
- Previous landlord reference
- Personal references (1-2)
- Application fee payment
Pro tip: Scan everything and keep a digital folder ready to email instantly.
3. Choosing a Neighborhood
Chicago has 77 community areas with distinct personalities. Your choice depends on budget, commute, and lifestyle.
Lincoln Park
Upscale, family-friendly, near the lake. Studios from $1,400+
See Lincoln Park rankings →Compare all neighborhoods by budget →
4. Researching Buildings
This is where most first-time renters fail. They find a beautiful listing, fall in love with the photos, and sign without research. Then they discover maintenance issues, a negligent landlord, or pest problems.
Before ANY Apartment Viewing, Check:
- Building violation history — How many? Are they serious?
- Property information — When was it built? Who owns it?
- 311 complaints — What are current tenants dealing with?
- Neighborhood scores — How does the area rate overall?
Read our complete building research guide →
5. The Apartment Viewing
When you visit an apartment, check these things:
- Water pressure — Turn on the shower
- Cell service — Test in every room
- Natural light — Visit during the day
- Noise levels — Listen for neighbors, street noise, L train
- Signs of pests — Check under sink, behind stove
- Windows — Do they open? Any cracks? Chicago winters are cold!
- Heating system — Radiators, forced air, or in-unit?
- Laundry — In-unit, in-building, or nearby laundromat?
Full list of questions to ask →
6. Common First-Time Mistakes
Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Not verifying RLTO compliance
Make sure your landlord provides required disclosures and follows security deposit rules.
- ✗Skipping building research
5 minutes on StreetSmart can save you from a problem building.
- ✗Sending money before seeing the apartment
Common scam. Never wire money or pay deposits without viewing in person.
- ✗Not understanding heating costs
Chicago winters are brutal. Know if heat is included or what to expect for bills.
- ✗Forgetting move-in documentation
Take photos of everything when you move in. Protects your deposit.
7. Know Your Rights (RLTO)
As a Chicago tenant, you have strong legal protections under the Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance (RLTO):
- Right to a livable apartment — Heat, hot water, no pests
- Maximum 1.5 month security deposit
- Interest on your security deposit — Paid annually
- Required written disclosures — Building code violations, lead paint, etc.
- Proper notice requirements — 30 days for month-to-month leases
Read the complete tenant rights guide →
8. Realistic Timeline
Apartment Hunting Timeline
Helpful Resources
- StreetSmart — Research any building for free
- Building Rankings — See best and worst buildings
- RLTO Guide — Know your rights
- 311 — Report housing complaints to the city
- Metropolitan Tenants Organization — (773) 292-4988 — Free tenant help