Swim in These Chicago Rooftop Pools This Summer

May 2, 2024 | By Luxury Living Chicago Team
Reading Time: 3 Minutes

Of course, one of the most popular summer activities in any locale is swimming. Rooftop pools are a unique summer element of Chicago. Many luxury downtown hotels provide the opportunity to purchase a day pass or enjoy a staycation for full access to rooftop pools and other amenities.

Check out a few Chicago rooftop pools open all summer long:

Chicago Rooftop Pools

  1. Cabana Club– Swim in or lounge by this incredible rooftop pool on the top of the Robey in West Loop. From the pool you can soak up skyline views of downtown Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. You can also enjoy a meal or cocktail from Cafe Robey while you’re there.
  2. DoubleTree by Hilton– Tucked between the Magnifient Mile and Navy Pier, this popular rooftop pool sits in the prime downtown location. The rooftop pool and bar are open all summer long.
  3. Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel– Located in the Loop and perched on the third floor of the Radisson, this 25-meter lap rooftop swimming pool is one-of-a-kind. It makes the perfect spot to cool off in or get your laps in.
  4. The Hoxton– The chic pool located on the top of the Hoxton Hotel in West Loop provides fantastic views and a trendy aesthetic. When spending an afternoon on this rooftop, be sure to grab some delicious ceviche at Cabra.
  5. Soho House– This exclusive Chicago hotel offers one of the city’s coolest rooftop pools, boasting incredible panoramic views of the city. Around the pool, guests can find comfortable oversized chairs and couches that charge your device, along with cozy outdoor fireplaces.
  6. Fitness Formula Clubs (FFC) West Loop– Sign up for a membership at this fitness club to access this building’s impressive outdoor pool. There’s nothing like a dip in an outdoor pool after a summer workout.

Chicago Apartments with a Rooftop Pool

Imagine not having to leave your apartment to access a killer rooftop pool! The good news is you don’t have to imagine it if you find a unit in one of these apartments in Chicago with a rooftop pool:

The Elizabeth

225 N Elizabeth

These Fulton Market apartments offer an array of exclusive amenities designed to elevate your urban lifestyle, including an outdoor pool with loungers and panoramic views of the city.

the elizabeth chicago rooftop pool

The Saint Grand

218 E Grand Ave

The Saint Grand offers expertly designed apartments in the heart of downtown Chicago. From hustle to relaxation, these Streeterville apartments feature a state-of-the-art fitness center, co-working spaces with private study/work rooms, and a stunning rooftop pool deck with cabanas.

rooftop pools in chicago

The Leo

741 N Wells St

The Leo offers a refined living experience that combines sophistication with personalized comfort. This boutique River North building features an impressive rooftop pool deck with loungers and other outdoor amenities.

the leo rooftop pool chicago

Wolf Point East

313 W Wolf Point Plaza

These apartments sit right at the intersection of River North, Fulton Market, and the Loop. Residents of Wolf Point East can take advantage of this jaw-dropping rooftop skydeck and pool, which offer both luxury and breathtaking views.

river north rooftop pool

500 Lake Shore

This apartment is situated right along the edge of Streeterville and offers a rooftop pool with cabanas and unmatched views of Lake Michigan, making this the ultimate retreat from the city.

500 lake shore rooftop pools chicago

Aurelien

833 N Clark St

These Gold Coast apartments offer a rooftop pool deck like no other. Here, residents can enjoy private cabanas, loungers, TVs, and surrounding city views all summer long.

Aurelien River North

Old Town Park Two

202 W Hill St

Nestled in the Old Town neighborhood, this apartment building offers an incredible rooftop pool with private loungers for the ultimate relaxing summer night.

old town park 2

Lincoln Common

2345 N Lincoln Ave

Located in the charming Lincoln Park neighborhood, this building boasts a rooftop pool deck complete with cabanas and endless city views.

Lincoln Common

The Leo

741 North Wells Street, Chicago, IL, USA

River North apartments

The Saint Grand

218 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL, USA

Streeterville apartments

The Elizabeth

225 North Elizabeth Street, Chicago, IL, USA

Fulton Market apartments

Wolf Point East

313 West Wolf Point Plaza, Chicago, IL, USA

River North apartments

Lincoln Common

2345 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL, USA

Lincoln Park apartments

Old Town Park Two

202 West Hill Street, Chicago, IL, USA

Old Town apartments

Aurelien

833 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL, USA

Gold Coast apartments

500 Lake Shore

500 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL, USA

Streeterville apartments

If you’re looking to move to a luxury apartment with a pool this summer, Luxury Living Chicago Realty can help. We have a team of eager and experienced brokers who can help you find the best apartment near the best Chicago rooftop pools.

Ready to start your search? Click the button below to get started!

Start Your Search

Editors Note: This blog was originally published in August 2021 and has been refreshed and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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What Is the Salary Needed to Live in Chicago?

August 10, 2022 | By Gabrielle Gresge
Reading Time: 2 Minutes

As you consider renting in Chicago, it’s worth considering how the cost of living in the city might fit in with your finances and salary. While less expensive than cities like New York and San Francisco and more financially flexible than cities like LA, Chicago can still come with the pricetag of city living if you’re hoping to live in a more upscale area.

What salary is needed to live in Chicago?

According to ZipRecruiter, the average full-time salary in Chicago is $46,144 per year; the 90th percentile of earners in the city earn $68,371. Since our brokers recommend spending approximately 33% of monthly take-home income on rent, the salary needed to live in the city flexes depending on the cost of your rent.

For example, if your monthly salary is $4,600, you should look for rental options around $1,500. Depending on your pay structure, you might factor in bonuses or commission into your rental budget – or leave them out of the calculation in order to save those supplemental payments.

What determines the cost of rent – and where can you compromise on the 33% rule?

If you’re finding yourself asking “How much rent can I afford in Chicago?“, know you’re not alone. In addition to macro-factors like the economy, housing costs and housing availability, there are a few ways to think about the cost of rent as it relates to what you might spend.

1. Amenities

Buildings with great amenities cost more than their counterparts. If you rent at 727 W Madison in the West Loop, for example, you’d have access to a co-working space and gym – meaning you might save on a gym/co-working membership and instead put that money towards rent.

2. Location

If a walkable commute is important to you, you might save money on public transportation/rideshare costs that you can put towards rent if you lived in a building like 73 East Lake, located right next to River North in the Loop

3. Views

Another determining factor in apartment rents are how extensive of views you’re looking for. Whether you’re searching for city views, Lake Michigan views, or river views, a better sight comes with a higher cost. For an apartment with floor-to-ceiling windows capturing city and lake views, South Loop‘s Sentral along bustling Michigan Avenue can’t be beat.

727 W Madison

727 West Madison Street, Chicago, IL, USA

West Loop apartments

73 East Lake

73 East Lake, East Lake Street, Chicago, IL, USA

Loop apartments

Sentral Chicago

808 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL, USA

South Loop apartments

Our LLCR brokers are ready to help you consider the cost of living while finding an apartment that meets your needs. Reach out to us today to get started or click here to uncover the process of working with us.

If you find yourself asking “is it expensive to live in Chicago?”, we dive deeper on this topic in the blog linked below!

Is It Expensive to Live in Chicago?

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What Is a Den in an Apartment — and What Are Its Benefits?

July 27, 2022 | By Gabrielle Gresge
Reading Time: 2 Minutes

As much of the world has shifted to working from home as a result of the pandemic, the way we think about our living spaces has changed: while we once went to a gym, many renters now seek a gym in their building. Kitchen tables and make-shift desks have replaced offices. Some people choose to host more often in lieu of going out.

With these lifestyle changes, renters are beginning to ask more out of their apartments – and apartment dens, a relatively new yet growing trend, are a great way to answer this need by providing more space without the full cost of another bedroom.

What is a den in an apartment?

Both one- and two-bedroom apartments can come with a den, which is an extra alcove of space that’s large enough to accommodate additional usage but small enough that it doesn’t necessarily qualify as an extra bedroom. A space is designated as a den if it doesn’t have windows or a closet; for this reason, some buildings also refer to dens as a ‘flex space.’

A great example of an apartment with a den is Elevate, located at 930 W. Altgeld Street in Lincoln Park, or the Amli Lofts, located at 850 S. Clark Street.

What are the benefits of a den?

Beyond having extra footage, a den can provide space for activities, needs and hobbies beyond a bedroom, sitting room and kitchen. Not every one or two-bedroom apartment has a designated area for working from home, and a den could be the difference between working from your ‘office’ or working from your couch.

Dens in two-bedroom apartments can be particularly useful in this case: if you live with your partner or a roommate, a den allows for separate, private spaces for working – ensuring that both you and your partner are set up for success (and not talking into each others’ ears!).

Lastly, if you’re clever, a den can be a fantastic storage solution: by adding nice bookshelves, storage cubes or space-saving furniture, you can stash any overflow items not contained by other rooms.

For some renters, a den is a fantastic option – while others opt for an additional bedroom to allow for overnight guests, storage or an office.

If you’re on the hunt for a new apartment in Chicago, we can help! Our team of brokers are ready to talk through the benefits of different types of apartments and help you find a home that fits all of your needs. Contact us to get started with our complimentary apartment-finding service!

Interested in learning what other apartment layout options there are? Click the button below:

Explore Other Popular Apartment Layouts

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What is the Average Move-In Fee in Chicago? Move-In Fees vs. Security Deposits

May 2, 2022 | By Lauren Bozarth
Reading Time: 2 Minutes

When working with renters, we are often asked about the average move-in fee in Chicago and the difference between move-in fees and security deposits. If you are still looking for an answer to either of these questions, you have come to the right place.

Move-In Fees vs. Security Deposits

To start, let’s distinguish between move-in fees and security deposits. As a renter, you will likely encounter both of these costs.

Most prospective renters are required to pay a security deposit to help protect the property. This agreed-upon amount will be returned to the tenant if the property is still in acceptable condition at the end of the lease. If there has been notable damage, the landlord will deduct those costs from the security deposit based on the damage. 

In Illinois, there are limits and deadlines regarding these deductions. While there is no limit on the amount a landlord may charge as a security deposit, they may only deduct unpaid rent, damage over normal wear and tear, and cleaning costs to return the unit to a move-in-ready condition. Additionally, a landlord must return the appropriate deposit within 30 days.

Move-in fees are another initial cost required upon signing a lease. However, unlike a security deposit, they are non-refundable. This fee often covers additional costs associated with managing the rental property, such as repairs or maintenance.

The cost of both security deposits and move-in fees often depends on the rental property’s value. A security deposit typically equals one month’s rent in Chicago and other places. 

Anticipating move-in fees is not as straightforward. They can range anywhere from 20% to 50% of one month’s rent price. In Chicago, the average non-refundable move-in fee can cost someone $425 to  $700.

With the average move-in fee in Chicago varying so much, you want to make sure you figure out this cost prior to signing your lease.

If you are currently in the midst of searching for a Chicago apartment, let the Luxury Living team secure your next home! Contact us today to get started with our complimentary apartment-hunting service!

Have more questions about your apartment search? We’ve answered a few of your highly-asked questions. Follow the link below:

Our Complete List of Apartment Finding Tips

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What Should Your Apartment Hunting Timeline Look Like?

April 20, 2022 | By Andrew Lemna
Reading Time: 2 Minutes

If you’re getting ready to move, you may be wondering what the typical apartment hunting timeline should look like. That question and more are answered below!

The Apartment Hunting Timeline

When you’re starting to look for an apartment, it’s essential to keep a timeline in mind so that you can keep track of your moving objectives and stay on schedule.

For most people, the real hunting begins between 30 and 60 days before your future move in date.

However, we recommend starting the process even earlier, between 90 and 60 days before your future move in date to give you time to fully prepare. 

60-90 Days Out

In the 90 day window before you move, start with a general search of apartments online and start making considerations for what you want in your next home.

Take our Chicago neighborhood quiz to find the best fit for you, and familiarize yourself with listings in the area so you can start to understand market prices, common amenities, and other considerations.

You can take this time to leisurely look at listings and formulate your standards and criteria for your personal search.

Check out our apartment hunting checklist for some more specific ideas of what to look for.

30-60 Days Out

Once you enter the window of one to two months outside of your move-in date, it’s time to really begin the hunt.

Reach out to your trusted real estate agent to start viewing apartments in person.

During this time frame, have a firm grasp on your budget, where you want to live, and which amenities you want in your next apartment.

The apartment market can move very quickly, so knowing exactly what you want during this window is a must!

If you fall behind in your search, check out our blog on how to find an apartment fast.

The Apartment Finding Process

Once you’ve found listings to check out, make sure to read up on proper apartment viewing etiquette and what to bring when touring an apartment as well! This knowledge will make viewing apartments much easier for you and give you confidence in your search.

If you’re interested in learning more about when the best time to move in Chicago is, check out our blog here for more information on this subject.

Looking to move soon? A Luxury Living Chicago Realty broker can help you find the perfect apartment for your timeline. Connect with a Luxury Living broker to start your search.

Click the button below to read our answers to more of your apartment-finding questions!

Our Complete List of Apartment Finding Tips

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Is Chicago Really That Cold? How to Survive a Chicago Winter After Moving

January 10, 2022 | By Lauren Bozarth
Reading Time: 2 Minutes

Is Chicago really that cold? This is a question we often get. In short, yes, the Windy City is as cold as you hear. If you’re relocating to Chicago you may not be used to the cold weather this winter. 

Is Chicago Really That Cold?

Here are a few tips for preparing yourself (and your living space) for the chilly season:

  1. Invest in proper attire. If you’re coming from a warm-weather spot, it’s crucial to have winter gear for your time in Chicago. This involves a great winter coat. The longer, the better too. We recommend finding a hooded parka that hits your knee (at least). You also want to ensure your wardrobe includes hats, gloves, boots, and warm socks. 
  2. Find walkable boots. While warm boots are a must, hunting down boots with good traction is equally important. During the winter, Chicago streets and sidewalks can get icy, and you want to protect yourself from slipping- especially if you plan on walking frequently.
  3. Layering is key. While the outdoors are frigid, most indoor spots have the heat cranked up during the winter months. Wearing layers allow you to stay comfortable in and out of fluctuating temperatures.
  4. Enjoy indoor activities and attractions. The cold is nothing new to Chicagoans, and it sure doesn’t keep people from getting out and being social. During the winter, people spend extra time dining out, visiting museums, shopping indoors, or checking out the conservatories. While some days may call for a movie night in, don’t let the frigid temps keep you from exploring all that this city has to offer in the winter.
  5. Take advantage of virtual offerings. The world of Zoom and video conferencing has allowed folks to participate in a plethora of activities without having to step outside their home. Consider workout classes or hangouts from the comfort of your own home when the weather is really bad.
  6. Get cozy. The best way to make the most of the cold is to ensure you and your space feel comfortable. Light candles throughout your home, pour yourself a warm beverage, snuggle up under a warm blanket, and turn on your favorite movie.
  7. Have a good perspective. There is no denying Chicago winters are rough, but Chicago summers make it all worth it. Remind yourself that the cold passes, and summer is right around the corner!

Now that we’ve answered the burning question, “is Chicago really that cold?”, and provided tips on making the most of the chilly weather, hopefully you feel more confident to brave the winters out here. Need to relocate to Chicago soon? Contact Luxury Living Chicago and let our team of experienced brokers help you find the perfect place!

If you’re new to the city or are looking to relocate, follow the link below for our “Moving to Chicago” guide!

The Expert Guide for  Moving to Chicago

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The Complete Chicago Neighborhood Guide

September 6, 2021 | By Lindsay Smith
Reading Time: 6 Minutes

Your Chicago Neighborhood Guide

Chicago is made up of so many different neighborhoods for various cultures and lifestyles. If you are looking to live in one of Chicago’s neighborhoods, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for our complete Chicago neighborhood guide.

Pet-Friendly Chicago Neighborhoods

Chicago Neighborhood Guide
Lincoln Park

When comparing some of the top pet-friendly neighborhoods in Chicago, there are quite a few options to choose from. We suggest weighing out the pros and cons between two popular neighborhoods for you and your furry friend — Lincoln Park vs. West Loop.

Lincoln Park – This pet-friendly Chicago neighborhood is home to the city’s largest park, making it a great option for you and your pet to go on a walk or run. In addition to the park, you can also enjoy the Wiggly Field dog park or take a stroll along the lakefront during the warmer months. Lincoln Park also offers many pet-friendly restaurants for you and your furry companion to dine at as well, including the patio at Broken English Taco Pub, GEMINI, or Ranalli’s pizza. If you’re low on dog food, treats, or toys, you can also head to local Lincoln Park pet shops like Kriser’s Natural Pet or Bark by the Park.

West Loop – A prime Chicago neighborhood for you and your furry friend, Wicker Park is home to various different dog parks sprinkled throughout the neighborhood. Take your pets to Skinner Bark Park or Mary Bartelme Park to let them roam free or play catch. In addition to West Loop’s extensive list of popular dining spots, this neighborhood is also home to many dog-friendly restaurants including Bar Siena, Jefferson Tap, and Lou’s Backyard. When living in West Loop, you can also grab your pet supplies at Paw Naturals or Wigglyville Pet Boutique.

Pretty Chicago Neighborhoods

river north chicago
River North

Every neighborhood in Chicago has something that makes it truly special. When looking for a pretty spot to live in one of Chicago’s neighborhoods, be sure to weigh out River North v. Old Town.

River North – This beautiful neighborhood gets its name from its location, just north of the river. With it comes the extensive views of both the river, Lake Michigan, and city. When you live in River North, you can experience all the shiny skyscrapers, restful riverwalk, bustling Michigan Avenue, boutique storefronts, and many other architectural structures that make this neighborhood one of the prettiest in the city.

Old Town – Rich with vintage charm and tree-lined streets, Old Town is another great pick when looking for a pretty Chicago neighborhood to live in. Stroll along the streets of Old Town and you will find a mix of old Victorian homes, historic walk ups, and sleek high-rise buildings giving you that warm neighborhood feel. In addition to the extensive history of Old Town, this Chicago neighborhood is also home to many pretty storefronts, patios, and green space.

Hipster Neighborhoods in Chicago

Chicago Neighborhood Guide
Logan Square

In order to really experience the city, you should get out and explore some of Chicago’s coolest hipster neighborhoods — Wicker Park v. Logan Square.

Wicker Park – Ranked among the top 5 most hipster neighborhoods in the nation, Wicker Park is one of the most happening places to be. With excellent walkability, coffee shops galore, plenty of local food trucks, dive bars, farmers markets, record shops, and art galleries, this neighborhood is the definition of hipster.

Logan Square – From craft breweries to thrift shops, Logan Square is another popular spot if you’re looking to live in a hipster Chicago neighborhood. Many of the trendy attractions are located along Milwaukee Avenue, but you can also find local shops scattered around the neighborhood as well. If you’re looking to spend a weekend exploring more of Logan Square, be sure to check out a good coffee shop, farm-to-table restaurant, or peruse their popular Sunday farmers market.

Chicago Neighborhoods for Young Professionals

Chicago Neighborhood Guide
Old Town

If you’re a young professional who just moved to the city and are debating which neighborhood to live in, be sure to run a comparison of Lincoln Park v. Old Town.

Lincoln Park – This Chicago neighborhood is known for their crowds of both young families and professionals. Relax on North Ave beach in the summer, take a stroll along Lincoln Park, explore the Lincoln Park Zoo, try a few popular restaurants in the area, or peruse a few Lincoln Park boutiques. This area is also home to DePaul University and has many transit options to the city for work.

Old Town – If you’re looking for a short commute to downtown for work, Old Town is a fantastic place to be. Just a few miles north of the Loop, Old Town is the perfect area just outside all the hustle and bustle of the city. This historic neighborhood is also close to Lake Michigan, plenty of entertainment, delicious restaurants, and bustling nightlife

Quieter Neighborhoods Further From Downtown, Chicago

lakeview chicago
Lakeview

Looking to be in close proximity to all the city has to offer but don’t want to live in it? Check out Lakeview or Uptown.

Lakeview – Just 6 miles north of downtown Chicago, Lakeview is a great option for those looking to be a bit more removed from city living. This neighborhood borders Lake Michigan for prime access to the lakefront trail. Lakeview also has plenty of green space for picnicking, niche boutiques to peruse, and local pubs to enjoy if you’re looking for more of a laid-back vibe.

Uptown – Just a few miles north of Lakeview, Uptown is even further from downtown Chicago with plenty of neighborhood charm and a little extra space to get some peace and quiet. Uptown is known for their cozy cafes and music lounges, as well as the beautiful Graceland Cemetery, Aragon Ballroom, and Montrose beach.

Looking for a Chicago Apartment with Views?

If you’re on the hunt for a Chicago apartment with stunning views, you have to compare River North v. Chicago Loop.

River North – This Chicago area is one of the largest neighborhoods offering some of the best apartment buildings with jaw-dropping views. River North is the perfect blend of your social and professional life with its close proximity to the Loop, as well as plenty of world class dining options, nightlife, and shopping.

Chicago Loop – Nicknamed the “L” for the train tracks surrounding the Loop’s business district, this area is an excellent spot for professionals looking to live close to work in an apartment with incredible city views. Close to Willis Tower, some of the city’s largest company headquarters, and countless dining and shopping options, the Loop is a great place to live.

  • Wolf Point East – 313 W Wolf Point Plaza – Featuring unobstructed views of the city and river, Wolf Point East offers top-notch River North living. Situated in a convenient location directly along the riverwalk, Wolf Point East residents can enjoy the glistening cityscape from 60 floors high.
  • OneEleven – 111 W Wacker Drive – This stunning building delivers a high quality of living experience with premier amenities, exquisite design, and impeccable views in River North. Located right along the Chicago River, residents can enjoy endless panoramic views of the city and river from way high up.
  • Parkline – 60 E Randolph – Parkline apartments offer a tremendous downtown living experience in the Loop. The views from their penthouse collection is unmatched, with Lake Michigan and the city as a backdrop in every direction. Take in the views from your own apartment or admire the views from one of the many outdoor amenity spots.

Now that you’re well versed in Chicago’s top neighborhoods, it’s time to start your hunt for the apartment of your dreams. Our experienced experts live, work, and play in the Chicago neighborhoods, so let us assist you in navigating your Windy City apartment search, or continue exploring Chicago’s many neighborhoods below!

EXPLORE CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOODS

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The Best Floor to Ceiling Window Apartments in Chicago

June 22, 2021 | By Lauren Bozarth
Reading Time: 2 Minutes

With so many incredible things to see in Chicago, from the breathtaking skyline to the expansive lake, why wouldn’t you want the best view right outside of your own windows?

While prioritizing amazing views is an easy decision, finding an apartment with the most impressive views may be more challenging. That’s why the Luxury Living Chicago Realty team has rounded up the best floor-to-ceiling window apartments for you to check out.

The Best Floor to Ceiling Window Apartments in Chicago

floor to ceiling window apartments
Wolf Point East

Wolf Point East – 313 W. Wolf Point Plaza – On the East end of the Chicago River, this River North apartment building boasts unparalleled views of the river and city. Along with great city sites, residents have access to world-class amenities, including a co-working lounge, full-floor fitness center, river terrace, sports club, indoor/outdoor pool and hot tub, golf simulator, dog run, and more. The building sits right on the Chicago River, allowing residents direct access to a private riverwalk patio, River North restaurants, nightlife, and activities.

Essex on the Park –  808 S. Michigan Ave – This impressive and relatively new 56-story high-rise in the Loop provides residents with an unbeatable lakefront view and living experience. The building features a dramatic four-story winter garden with an indoor pool overlooking Grant Park. Other amenities include an outdoor patio with grilling stations, a fitness center with an indoor/outdoor yoga studio, a party room, cocktail lounge, and more.

floor to ceiling window apartments
ELEVATE

727 W Madison – This 492-unit West Loop skyscraper claims the title as Chicago’s tallest building west of the Kennedy Expressway. So naturally, residents can expect sweeping city views from within their luxury unit or from the large sun terrace with a pool, spa, cabanas, and grilling station. 

ELEVATE – 930 W. Altgeld St – Since this apartment building is located in Lincoln Park, a couple of miles from the downtown Loop, residents have expansive downtown views and views of the surrounding neighborhoods. The building offers upscale finishes and elegant amenities, including a rooftop fitness center and pool deck complete with cabanas, a large courtyard overlooking Lincoln Avenue, and a common area with built-in seating and WI-FI. 

NewCity – 1457 N. Halsted St – These upscale residences feature floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of Lincoln Park and the entire Chicago skyline. Each unit is complete with detailed finishes and access to convenient amenities. The building is in the center of some of the Lincoln Park’s best shopping and dining.

Don’t miss out on a floor-to-ceiling apartment in Chicago for unlimited access to killer views of the Windy City. If you would like our team to help you secure one of these luxury apartments with stellar sights and impressive amenities, connect with one of our experienced team members today!

Looking for more apartments, restaurants, or balconies with some of the city’s best views? Check out our comprehensive guide below!

The Best Views in Chicago

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How to Estimate Utility Costs for Your Chicago Apartment

May 18, 2021 | By Lindsay Smith
Reading Time: 2 Minutes

When you’re figuring out what you can afford in Chicago, it’s essential to consider your average monthly utility bill. We’ve broken down how you can best ballpark your utility costs to help you budget for your next move.

How to Estimate Utility Costs

When searching for a new Chicago apartment, you not only have to factor in your monthly rent, but also the cost of your utilities. 

According to U.S. News, apartment renters should budget $100-$150 per month for utilities, but these numbers can fluctuate depending on the building and what they cover.

In most apartments, you will be responsible for paying electricity, gas, and internet/cable bills, as the buildings typically cover water, sewer, and garbage.

Here’s how to estimate the cost of utilities in Chicago:

Electricity: The average cost for electricity in Chicago is $105.49 per month. This is most likely going to be the most expensive of the utilities, especially during the warmer months when the AC is constantly running. To help combat the fluctuation in price throughout the year, some companies offer even billing. Even billing is determined by taking the average of your energy habits throughout the year and coming up with an even base price you pay each month.

Gas: The average cost for gas in Chicago is $96.99 per month. To help combat the costs incurred in the warmer months where electricity surges, your gas bill will be the opposite. As the temperature falls, your gas bill will rise, and vice versa.

Internet: The average cost for internet (60Mbps) in Chicago is $61.15. Depending on the internet speed you need, this cost may fluctuate. If you don’t mind a slower connection, you can keep costs down a bit more here.

Cable: The national average for cable is $100. As cable alternatives start to gain traction, you can also cut this expense if you wish and go with a cheaper option with a select few of your favorite channels. A few of these cable alternative options are Sling TV for $35 a month, Hulu with Live TV for $64.99 a month, or YouTube TV for $64.99 a month.

Water: The national average cost for water is $40, but you most likely won’t have to worry about this cost in your apartment.

Sewer/Garbage: The city of Chicago charges a $9.50 per month garbage fee for each unit, but this will most likely be handled by your apartment building.

Now that you’ve factored in utility costs to your monthly budget, it’s time to start your apartment search.

Working with an experienced Luxury Living broker can help you estimate a reasonable monthly range for utility costs in your new apartment and advise you on budgeting correctly for life in the city.

For more on all the costs you can expect when living in Chicago, check out our guide below.

The Cost of Living in Chicago

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Apartment Experts

Spend less time apartment hunting, and more time living. Luxury Living is a complimentary service to make your apartment search easier, and even fun. Whether you’re new to the city or simply in need of a change, we are here to help.

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