Things No One Tells You About Moving to Chicago

Moving to Chicago can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. With its rich culture, diverse neighborhoods, and endless opportunities, this city has something for everyone. But there are a few things you might not know about living in Chicago that could help you make the most of your move. Here are some insider tips on what to expect when making Chicago your new home.

1. You Don’t Need a Car

One of the first things you’ll learn about living in Chicago is that you don’t necessarily need a car. In fact, owning a car can be more of a hassle than a convenience. Parking at your apartment can easily run you around ~$300 per month, not to mention the added expenses of car insurance, gas, and maintenance. When you add it all up, the cost of owning a car in the city can be pretty steep.

Luckily, Chicago is an incredibly walkable city with a public transportation system everyone commonly uses. The L train lines can take you almost anywhere you need to go, with a $5 day pass or a $2.50 one-way ticket offering a much cheaper alternative to an Uber or taxi. If you find yourself commuting frequently, the $75 monthly unlimited pass is a fantastic deal that’s significantly cheaper than dealing with all that car hassle. Most people living here find that between walking, biking, and taking public transit, they don’t need a car at all!

2. You Don’t Need to Only Look in Lincoln Park…

When people think of moving to Chicago, Lincoln Park often comes up as the go-to neighborhood. While Lincoln Park is beautiful and has a ton of fun things to do, it’s not the only great option in the city. Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe and community.

If you’re a foodie, consider the West Loop, where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in the city. For vintage lovers, Wicker Park and Logan Square are filled with charming shops and historic architecture. Logan Square even hosts a fantastic farmers market that’s a favorite among locals. See, not only Lincoln Park has a farmer’s market! If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, consider living near the 606 Trail or in neighborhoods like Streeterville, Gold Coast, or Lakeview, which are close to Lake Michigan and the Lakefront Trail. Don’t limit yourself — explore all that Chicago’s neighborhoods have to offer to find the one that best fits your lifestyle.

3. Professionally Managed vs. Privately Managed Apartments

When apartment hunting in Chicago, you’ll come across two main types of management: professionally managed and privately managed. Professionally managed buildings are often the tall, modern high-rises with all the amenities you could ask for — gyms, pools, spas, 24-hour door staff, WFH spaces, and more. While these buildings may come with a higher price tag, you truly get a lot of bang for your buck.

On the other hand, privately managed apartments are typically smaller buildings or walk-ups that might have more character and charm. These can be less expensive, but this isn’t always the case—location and finishes can still drive up prices. Privately managed units might not have amenities like a gym or doorman, and you might face challenges like inconsistent maintenance or package management. Choosing between the two comes down to what you prioritize in your living space. Do you want modern finishes and a prime location, or are you more focused on affordability?

4. Apartment Locators Are a Game Changer

One thing many people don’t realize is that there are real estate agents who specialize in apartments. Apartment locators, like the amazing agents at Smart City, can take a lot of stress out of your search. They offer personalized services where you schedule a quick call to discuss your needs and preferences, and then they do the legwork to find you the best options. This service can save you hours of scrolling through listings and help you avoid scams or fake listings.

Apartment locators, also known as brokers, know the city inside and out and have access to listings that aren’t available to the public, giving you a competitive edge in a fast-moving market. Working with an apartment locator can streamline the process and help ensure you find the perfect place to call home.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Chicago can be a thrilling adventure, but it helps to know a few things ahead of time. From ditching the car to exploring all the diverse neighborhoods and understanding your options, these tips can help make your move smoother and more enjoyable. And if you want to find the perfect spot for you without all the crazy stress that comes with moving, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our agents. Welcome to Chicago — get ready to make some great memories!

*This blog was generated using the assistance of AI but has been reviewed, edited & rewritten by apartment experts in your local market.