AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Chicago, IL — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Chicago neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,800/mo
Median Rent
2,696,555
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
Advocate Aurora Health
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Chicago? What Renters Need to Know

The average rent in Chicago is approximately $1,800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Prices vary widely by neighborhood, with River North and Lincoln Park commanding $2,200–$2,400 while neighborhoods like Pilsen offer rents closer to $1,400.

Quick Facts

Population 2,696,555
Median Rent $1,800/mo
Top Employer Advocate Aurora Health
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,800 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Chicago median rent is $300 above the national median of $1,500/mo.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Chicago is Advocate Aurora Health, making the Lincoln Park area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Chicago

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Lincoln Park

Score: 92/100
Safety A
Walk Score 93
Avg Rent $2,200
Schools 8/10
#2

Wicker Park

Score: 88/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 95
Avg Rent $1,950
Schools 7/10
#3

River North

Score: 85/100
Safety B
Walk Score 97
Avg Rent $2,400
Schools 6/10

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#4

Lakeview

Score: 90/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 94
Avg Rent $2,100
Schools 8/10
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#5

Hyde Park

Score: 78/100
Safety B-
Walk Score 82
Avg Rent $1,600
Schools 9/10
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#6

Logan Square

Score: 83/100
Safety B
Walk Score 89
Avg Rent $1,750
Schools 6/10
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#7

Pilsen

Score: 74/100
Safety C+
Walk Score 84
Avg Rent $1,400
Schools 5/10
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#8

Edgewater

Score: 80/100
Safety B
Walk Score 90
Avg Rent $1,700
Schools 7/10
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See All 8 Chicago Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Chicago Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Chicago renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Chicago.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Chicago properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Chicago

What is the average rent in Chicago?

The average rent in Chicago is approximately $1,800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Prices vary widely by neighborhood, with River North and Lincoln Park commanding $2,200–$2,400 while neighborhoods like Pilsen offer rents closer to $1,400.

Which Chicago neighborhoods are best for families?

Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Hyde Park consistently rank as top family-friendly neighborhoods in Chicago. These areas offer strong public schools, abundant parks, and low crime rates relative to the city average.

How is public transit in Chicago?

Chicago's CTA is one of the best transit systems in the US, with 8 El train lines and extensive bus coverage. Most central neighborhoods score 85+ on Walk Score and 80+ on Transit Score.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Chicago?

Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and the Gold Coast consistently rank as Chicago's safest neighborhoods with crime rates well below the city average. The North Side generally has lower crime than the South or West sides.

Is Chicago a good city for renters?

Chicago offers strong renter protections and a wide range of housing options from luxury high-rises to vintage two-flats. The city's rental market is more affordable than NYC or LA while still offering world-class amenities and culture.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.