For students who will start their academic journey in Chicago, how to choose student housing Chicago is one of the most critical issues. Living in on-campus dormitories or rent off-campus housing in Chicago? On-campus dormitories sometimes are not available to all students and are more expensive than off-campus rentals, so many students choose to rent off-campus housing in Chicago. Today, we’re offering you a complete guide to renting a student apartment in Chicago. Hope this guide could help you find your ideal home in Chicago!
Before Renting Student Housing Chicago
There are 5 things to consider before you start to renting student housing in Chicago.
Research the Neighborhoods: Chicago has over 70 neighbourhoods, each with character and amenities. Research the neighbourhoods around your university, the search atmosphere, and the criminal rate of some targeted neighbourhoods. Please tour these preferences and feel whether they suit your lifestyle.
Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on rent each month. Except for monthly rent, utilities bills like water, gas, and electricity in Chicago are about $100 per month. Groceries and transportation fees also need to be considered. Estimate your total cost of living in Chicago.
Calculate Commute Times: Consider how far you are willing to travel to get to your classes. Which public transportation options suit you: walking, biking, busing, or driving?
List for Amenities: List amenities that are important to you, such as AC, laundry facilities, washer and dryer, parking, security, or a fitness centre. Look for student housing options in Chicago that offer the amenities you value most.
Read Reviews: Look for reviews of your ideal Chicago student apartments online or on social media. Pay attention to feedback from current and former tenants about the management, maintenance, safety, and overall living experience.
Which Student Housing in Chicago Suits You Better?
Ask yourself the following questions, which will help determine what kind of student apartments in Chicago could satisfy your living needs and preferences.
1. What type of housing environment do you prefer: dormitory, single room, shared housing, studio apartment, or flat apartment?
2. What is your budget for student housing in Chicago, and how does it compare to different housing options?
3. What is your ideal commute time, and what is your preferred way of commuting?
4. What amenities, such as laundry facilities, parking, security, or a fitness centre, are essential for your living situation?
5. Are you comfortable living with roommates, or do you prefer your own space in a studio apartment?
6. Are there specific neighbourhoods in Chicago that you prefer or want to avoid for your student housing?
7. How do each Chicago housing option’s atmosphere and vibe align with your lifestyle and personality?
8. How do the reviews of potential housing options in Chicago compare regarding management, maintenance, safety, and overall living experience?
9. How do the lease terms and conditions vary across housing options? Do you consider flexible lease terms?
10. Are there any additional costs except the monthly rent, such as utilities, internet, or maintenance fees?
11. How does the size of the living space in each housing option align with your needs and preferences?
12. Do you prefer a furnished or unfurnished living space?
13. If applicable, what is each housing option’s pet policy, and does it align with your pet ownership plans?
14. How accessible is Chicago public transportation from each housing location to your university and other areas of interest in Chicago?
15. How do the internet speed and connectivity options compare across different housing choices?
16. How do the maintenance and repair processes work for each housing option, and how responsive is the management to issues?
17. Are there any restrictions on guests, noise levels, or other aspects that may impact your living experience in each housing option?
18. How do common areas’ living conditions and cleanliness compare across different housing options?
19. Are supermarkets, restaurants, shopping centres, pharmacies, and other essential services available near each housing option?
20. How do the socializing and community engagement opportunities differ in each housing option?
21. Are any additional benefits or perks offered by specific housing options that align with your preferences?
Follow-Up Issues of Renting Student Housing Chicago
Understand the Lease:
Carefully review the terms of your lease agreement before signing. Ensure you understand the rent amount, payment schedule, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, and any penalties for breaking the lease.
Inspect the Property:
Upon moving in, thoroughly inspect the property and note any existing damages or issues. Document these with photos or written descriptions, and avoid being held responsible for them later.
Get Renter’s Insurance:
What could be worse than coming home to your housing to find your beloved new bike, electric guitar, or laptop stolen? The worse is that you have to finance the replacement of those things because you don’t have renter’s insurance. Chicago apartment renter insurance starts at about $5.00 per month. You can get one, just in case.
Establish House Rules:
If you have roommates, establish clear house rules regarding shared spaces, chores, guests, quiet hours, and other important considerations before you move in. Communicating with your roommates in a timely manner can help prevent conflicts.
Involved in the Community:
Communicate with your neighbors and participate in community events or activities near your Chicago student housing. Building a sense of community can enhance your living experience and help you feel more connected to the windy city.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
