Moving to Chicago is exciting—the city has world-class food, architecture, lakefront, and culture, all at a fraction of NYC or LA prices. Whether you're relocating for a job, school, or a fresh start, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Before You Move: Planning
1. Set Your Budget
Chicago is affordable compared to coastal cities, but still requires planning:
- The 2.5-3x rule: Most landlords require monthly income of 2.5-3x rent. For a $1,800/month apartment, you need $54,000-65,000 annual income.
- Upfront costs: First month + security deposit (max 1.5 months) = $4,500-6,300
- Monthly budget: Aim to spend no more than 30% of income on rent
2. Choose Your Area
North Side
Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Wicker Park. Trendy, walkable, near the lake. Higher rents but great quality of life.
West Side
West Loop, Logan Square, Pilsen. Restaurant scenes, arts, more affordable with character.
South Side
Hyde Park, Bridgeport, Bronzeville. More affordable, diverse, cultural institutions.
Downtown/Loop
River North, South Loop. High-rise living, walkable to everything, premium pricing.
See our complete neighborhood guide by budget →
3. Gather Documents Early
Have these ready before you start looking:
- Government ID
- 2-3 recent pay stubs or offer letter
- Bank statements (1-2 months)
- Employment verification letter
- Previous landlord reference
Finding an Apartment from Out of Town
Option 1: Visit in Person (Recommended)
Chicago is easier than NYC for remote apartment hunting, but visiting is still best:
- Plan a 2-3 day trip dedicated to apartment hunting
- Schedule 5-8 viewings per day
- Be prepared to apply quickly for good units
- Have all documents and payment ready
Option 2: Remote Search
If you can't visit first:
- Use video tours (FaceTime/Zoom with landlord)
- Ask for comprehensive photos and videos
- Research the building on StreetSmart
- Consider a short-term rental first, then find permanent housing once you arrive
Scam Warning
Remote apartment hunting has scam risk. Never send money without seeing an apartment or verifying the landlord. Learn how to avoid scams →
Research Buildings Before You Arrive
Search any Chicago address to see violations, property info, and building quality scores—so you can vet listings before your trip.
Search BuildingsTrue Cost of Moving to Chicago
Move-In Cost Calculator (for $1,800/month apt)
Relocation Timeline
Months Before
Set budget, research neighborhoods, gather documents
Weeks Before
Start browsing listings, plan apartment hunting trip
Weeks Before
View apartments, apply immediately for ones you like
Week Before
Sign lease, arrange movers, set up utilities
After You Move
First Week Checklist
- Set up utilities (ComEd for electric, Peoples Gas for gas)
- Get internet installed
- Get a Ventra card for CTA (L train and buses)
- Find your nearest L station and learn your lines
- Explore your neighborhood on foot
- Take photos of your apartment's condition (for move-out)
First Month
- Get an Illinois ID/driver's license
- Register to vote
- Find a doctor and dentist
- Get renters insurance
- Get a city sticker if you have a car
Tips from Chicago Locals
- Layer up in winter — Chicago winters are brutal. Invest in a good coat, boots, and layers.
- The L is your friend — Learn the train lines. Most neighborhoods worth living in have good L access.
- Parking is expensive — Consider going car-free. Most neighborhoods are very walkable.
- Neighborhood pride is real — Chicagoans are loyal to their neighborhoods. Explore different areas.
- Summer is magical — The city transforms in warm months. Street fests, beaches, rooftops.
- Deep dish isn't everyday pizza — Locals eat thin crust tavern-style pizza more often.