Are you looking for a studio rental in Chicago? If yes, you’ve come to the right place.

Whether you are moving within or to Chicago, you have many different options to choose from. The vast majority of which are featured right here on Apartmentlove.com. 

In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of tips to consider when looking for studio apartments for rent in Chicago. 

The Difference Between a Studio Apartments and One-Bedroom Apartment

There are many misconceptions about one-bedroom and studio apartments among rental hunters. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same.  Some critical differences between the two should be noted. 

A one-bedroom apartment, also known as a single apartment, has a bedroom, a kitchen, a living room area, and a bathroom. Some one-bedroom apartments also come equipped with a balcony, yard, and two-level storage space. These features vary from apartment to apartment and are considered extra features.

A studio apartment, on the other hand, refers to a self-contained unit that houses everything in a single room space except for the bathroom and linen closet. One corner of the room may be designated as a bedroom area. Another corner may be designated as the kitchen and dining room area. And yet another corner may be converted into a TV area.

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When searching for the right rental option in Chicago, it is important to familiarize yourself with the two terms, so that you can select the right studios for rent or apartments that meet your needs.

6 Important Tips to Keep in Mind When Searching for a Studio Rental in Chicago


1. Identify important features your new place should have

Make a list of what is important to you before you look for a studio to rent in Chicago – amenities, neighborhood, walkability, transit, etc. This will help refine your search. Apartment Rental Websites like ApartmentLove.com have filters that help you refine your searches by various parameters – housing type, pricing, pet policy, etc.


2. Take measurements of the new place

Measure all the furniture you intend to move into your new studio rental before you book a tour. This is especially important for people looking to downsize. During your visit, bring a tape measure with you to make sure your furniture will fit through the doors and into the new unit. 


3. Know which areas you prefer and can afford

Set realistic goals and standards and maintain them during your search. Prices may differ when looking for studio apartments on the Chicago south side compared to other areas. For example, don't go looking at $3,000 units with expensive amenities if you can only afford something within the $1,000-$1,500 range. The same goes for apartments that are in pricey areas or areas that are far from your place of work. If you have a limited budget and are looking to stay within close distance of your current home, try searching for ‘low rent studio apartments near me’.


4. Have an open mind when searching for your next place

While maintaining standards is important, it is also good to be open to different apartment options, instead of only looking at certain studios for rent. Sometimes sacrificing space for a stylish and convenient neighborhood or vice versa could be completely worth it. It all comes down to your comfort level, needs, and budget. 


5. Know your rights and know what you sign for

Several laws protect tenants should an issue with contracts or the actual rentals arise. It is vital that you read all contracts in full, including the fine print, and familiarize yourself with the Chicago Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance (“RLTO”). Apart from not suddenly increasing rent within a year, a landlord is limited to when and why they can enter your apartment. 


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6. Start your search well on time!

Plan, plan and plan! Many rentals are usually listed 2 months before the move-in date. For example, studio apartments on the Chicago northside advertised on May 1st become available July 1st. Also, note that most rentals begin on the 1st of the month. In big metropolitan cities like Chicago, autumn and summer are busy seasons.


About ApartmentLove – Houses for rent USA

ApartmentLove.com is an apartment finder website committed to helping you find the studio rental of your dreams; one that suits your lifestyle and budget. Renting has never been easier.

As a rental website, we do not offer any studio apartments in Chicago for sale. We do however offer all types of unit types for rent in cities across the United States. Whether you are looking for cheap studio apartments in downtown Chicago or any other type of unit in another city; with our vast database of listings, you are guaranteed to find what you are looking for!

Published: May 24, 2021