Renting in Chicago? Discover the 10 most affordable Chicago suburbs to rent in 2024.
The Windy City, with its diverse neighborhoods and ever-evolving skyline, has much to offer its residents. But living in Chicago often comes with a high price tag, and you may be wondering how much rent costs in Chicago. The average rent is $1,572 a month for a studio, $1,907 a month for a one-bedroom unit and $2,558 for a two-bedroom unit. However, these prices may not fit your budget.
If you’re seeking a more affordable alternative to Chicago while remaining close enough to enjoy Chicago’s hustle and bustle, you’re in the right place. This article will explore 10 of the most affordable Chicago suburbs. From tranquil small towns to lively communities, you just might find your next hometown below.
Oak Lawn
Average rent for a studio: $1,450
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $950
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,400
Distance from Chicago: 17 miles
Apartments for rent in Oak Lawn
Our most affordable Chicago suburb is Oak Lawn. Only about 17 miles southwest of Chicago, you’re just a short distance from the city center. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is nearly half the cost compared to Chicago, so living in Oak Lawn can save you a lot.
In Oak Lawn, you can explore one of the parks like Oak Lawn Park District and Wolfe Wildlife Park. Additionally, you can discover a variety of local restaurants and shops in the downtown area, providing a taste of the town’s unique character and charm.
Joliet
Average rent for a studio: $890
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,005
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,195
Distance from Chicago: 45 miles
About 45 miles southwest of Chicago is our top pick of affordable Chicago suburbs, Joliet. The area is home to about 150,400 residents, and the average rents are much less than in Chicago. For example, a one-bedroom unit in Joliet costs $1,005 compared to $1,907 in Chicago.
If you move to Joliet, you’ll find a lot of fascinating places to explore. For example, you can visit the Old Joliet Prison, which offers guided tours and a glimpse into its rich history. You can also see a show at the Rialto Square Theatre, an elegant and historic venue that hosts a variety of live performances, from rock concerts to Broadway shows.
Oak Park
Average rent for a studio: $922
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,162
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,142
Distance from Chicago: 10 miles
Apartments for rent in Oak Park
Another great suburb for renters is Oak Park, roughly 10 miles west of Chicago. The rental prices are great as the average rent for a one-bedroom unit is about $750 a month less than in Chicago.
In Oak Park, you can immerse yourself in the town’s architectural history by taking a guided tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, highlighting the undeniable style of this renowned architect. You can also visit the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum, showcasing the author’s life and works. Additionally, Oak Park is home to the beautiful and expansive Oak Park Conservatory, a serene environment amidst lush botanical gardens.
Skokie
Average rent for a studio: $2,022
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,375
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,450
Distance from Chicago: 15 miles
Skokie is an affordable option for renters while remaining only 15 miles north of Chicago. With the average rent for a one-bedroom costing about $530 less than in Chicago, Skokie may be the suburb for you.
Skokie is also home to the scenic Emily Oaks Nature Center, providing nature lovers with hiking trails, wildlife observation and environmental education programs. You can also explore Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park, which has massive sculptures along landscaped paths.
Aurora
Average rent for a studio: $1,260
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,400
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,980
Distance from Chicago: 40 miles
About 40 miles west of Chicago, you’ll find Aurora, another great suburb to add to your list. Home to 179,200 residents, Aurora is an awesome option for renters looking for a city-like atmosphere with more affordable rental prices.
Aurora is home to the beautiful Oakhurst Forest Preserve, with hiking trails, birdwatching areas, and a stocked lake. You can also visit the Paramount Theatre, a historic venue showcasing a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to acoustic sets and more.
Arlington Heights
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,533
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,844
Distance from Chicago: 30 miles
Apartments for rent in Arlington Heights
Securing the sixth spot on our list, Arlington Heights is a familiar Chicago suburb. This area is home to roughly 76,000 residents, making it feel more like a small town.
Arlington Heights has a solid downtown area with a great selection of shops and restaurants, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. The town is also home to Lake Arlington, which has miles of trails and picturesque views.
Schaumburg
Average rent for a studio: $1,433
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,573
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,900
Distance from from Chicago: 33 miles
Apartments for rent in Schaumburg
Next on our list of renter-friendly Chicago suburbs is Schaumburg. It’s about 33 miles northwest of downtown, meaning it’s a little longer commute into the city. But saving on rent by living in this affordable city may make the additional commute time worth it.
There is plenty to do in Schaumburg, like exploring Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, which has trails and a 19th-century farm. Schaumburg is also home to the Woodfield Mall, which has a range of retail stores, dining options and entertainment venues.
Des Plaines
Average rent for a studio: $1,836
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,600
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,902
Distance from Chicago: 20 miles
Apartments for rent in Des Plaines
If you call Chicago home, you might already know about Des Plaines, one of its most affordable suburbs. The rents in Des Plaines average $1,600 for a one-bedroom unit and $1,902 for a two-bedroom unit, so you’re still saving substantially compared to Chicago.
In this affordable Chicago suburb, you can spend the evening seeing a show at Des Plaines Theatre and explore the charming downtown area. You can also enjoy the scenic beauty of Prairie Lakes Park.
Evanston
Average rent for a studio: $1,207
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,652
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,300
Distance from Chicago: 15 miles
Apartments for rent in Evanston
Moving to Evanston provides a more laid-back lifestyle than Chicago’s city atmosphere. But you’ll find Evanston offers lots of activities for its residents compared to other Chicagoland suburbs.
You can explore the beautiful Northwestern University campus, known for its historic architecture, college-town vibe and live events. The Evanston Art Center, which hosts various art exhibitions and classes, is also a must-visit, providing a creative outlet for art enthusiasts and a taste of the local arts scene. Additionally, you can see the skyline views of the Chicago skyline from The Lakefill, a park along Lake Michigan, making it an easy pick for top affordable Chicago suburbs.
Naperville
Average rent for a studio: $2,020
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,820
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,311
Distance from Chicago: 35 miles
Apartments for rent in Naperville
Rounding out our list of affordable Chicago suburbs is Naperville. This suburb has a population of 149,100 and is roughly 35 miles west of Chicago. In Naperville, you can explore the Naperville Riverwalk, a scenic linear park along the DuPage River, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics and enjoying the majesty of the Midwest.
Naperville is also home to the Naper Settlement, a living history museum with historic buildings and interactive exhibits, giving a glimpse into Naperville’s past.
Find your next home in one of these affordable Chicago suburbs
The Chicago suburbs listed above are a testament to the fact that affordability doesn’t have to come with compromise. From quaint streets lined with cozy homes to bustling local businesses and serene parks, these suburbs offer unique opportunities for families, professionals and retirees alike.
The affordability of these suburbs doesn’t just ease the wallet; it enriches lives, fostering tight-knit communities where neighbors become friends, and memories are made. In the suburbs featured above, the spirit of Chicago thrives in a more accessible, affordable package, proving that the heart of a great city isn’t defined by its price, but by its people and the warmth of the community they build.
If you’re looking to leave your apartment and make the move from renter to buyer, make sure to also check out the most affordable Chicago suburbs to buy a home.
Methodology: Affordability is based on whether a suburb’s one and two-bedroom rent was less than Chicago and under 45 miles from downtown Chicago. Average rental data from Chicago rental market trends on October 26, 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
