Renting a Four-Bedroom Apartment in Chicago

If you're in the market for a spacious pad with plenty of room for family, friends, or even a home office, a four-bedroom apartment in Chicago might be just the ticket. While apartments this large can be a bit trickier to find than studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments (and come with a heftier price tag), they offer certain perks that could make it all worth it.

Whether you are looking to live with a handful of roommates to keep costs down while enjoying more space, have a growing family with kids demanding their own bedrooms, or just love the idea of waking up in a different room each day, there’s a four-bedroom apartment out there with your name on it!

In this guide, we'll cover all the bases of finding the perfect four-bedroom rental in the Windy City. From the best neighborhoods and the ideal time to start your search to a rundown on costs, with this information at your fingertips, you can start your search with confidence. So grab a coffee, put on some thinkin’ music, kick back, and let's get started!

 

Why Choose a Four-Bedroom Apartment?

Let’s start off with a little exercise. Imagine waking up in your own bedroom. It's spacious - there’s a closet, a dresser, maybe even a TV. You head down the hall to one of three bathrooms where all your stuff is neatly organized alongside someone elses - plenty of space to go around! Next, onward to the kitchen to jumpstart your morning with a fresh cup of joe. You hear the voices of your roommates or your family, some laughter, the clinking of dishes, and a nice cacophony of sounds to start your day. As you pass the living room, you marvel at how much room you have to relax and entertain. The large windows fill the room with sunshine, and a massive sofa offers plenty of seating for everyone. Maybe you’ll read in the backyard or on the rooftop terrace this afternoon. Maybe you’ll slip into the basement to finish off your laundry. Maybe you’ll hop on the bus right outside your door and ride downtown for a little adventure. Or you could just chill in your home office and pretend to get some work done.

Now, stare at a blank space on the wall and let your imagination run wild.

These are the perks of having a four-bedroom apartment in Chicago. The spaciousness, the amenities, the flexibility, all of it coming together to help you feel more at ease, more relaxed, and less cramped. And while you will probably have to choose one of the many amazing neighborhoods outside of downtown Chicago, easy public transit options will put you in the heart of the city in no time while you get to enjoy the peace and quiet that comes with residential vibes.

And when it comes to saving money, whether you already have friends ready to move in together, or you’re going to put an ad out looking for new roommates to help cut costs, a four-bedroom apartment could cost you the same as a smaller unit but with more space to roam. Win-win!

If this solidifies your daydreams of renting a four-bedroom apartment, then read on as Domu breaks down the where, when, and how to help you find more clarity before you begin your search.

 

Chicago Neighborhoods with the Most Four-Bedroom Apartments

When it comes to finding a four-bedroom apartment in Chicago, the options will be limited compared to smaller sizes. But don’t let that deter you! There are still plenty of neighborhoods where you can score a spacious four-bedroom rental, you just need to know where to look.

First up, let's talk about the North Side. If you love a picturesque view, then head to Rogers Park or Edgewater. These neighborhoods have a mix of classic courtyard buildings and newer construction, with plenty of room for you and your crew and amazing lake views. Even better, you’ll be just steps away from the beach and have enough dining options that you’ll forget what hunger pains were.

If you’re looking for a more central location, check out Uptown, where four-bedroom options lie in vintage walkups and grand old buildings. This neighborhood's history, arts scene, and extensive public transit make it a great spot to settle down while still being close to the hubbub of downtown. With the legendary Green Mill Jazz Club and the stunning Aragon Ballroom right in your backyard, you’ll never be lacking entertainment.

If you're willing to venture a bit further north-west, Albany Park and Irving Park are great spots to find four-bedroom apartments at more affordable prices. These neighborhoods give you the choice between single-family homes, duplexes, and larger apartment buildings, which really open up your possibilities. Both spots have plenty of parks, which is great if you have kids with tons of energy. Whether you work downtown or just like exploring, superb public transit and nearby highways help get you around with ease.

Now, let's head over to the West Side. If you're all about that trendy, bohemian vibe, Wicker Park and Ukrainian Village will up your hipster game. Here, you'll find plenty of converted lofts, funky flats, and rehabbed graystones with enough space for you and your artsy roommates. You’ll also be surrounded by some of the city's best boutiques, coffee shops, and music venues.

A bit further west, you'll find the rapidly growing neighborhoods of Humboldt Park and Logan Square. These areas love to flaunt that classic Chicago architecture, where your next home could be in a vintage building with historic vibes from the street but with a modern facelift within. With the rising popularity of these neighborhoods, there are plenty of new construction apartments to go around, where your four-bedroom could also include some extra amenities that only a modern complex could provide. Outside your walls, you’ll find vibrant street art, a buzzy restaurant scene, and ample green space.

Let’s not forget about the South Side. Speaking of historic charm, if you want your next home to be filled with character, check out Hyde Park or Kenwood. These neighborhoods are home to some of the city's most beautiful old homes and apartment buildings, many of which have been converted into spacious four-bedroom apartments. You’ll also be close to the University of Chicago, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, and, of course, the beautiful lakefront.

For a more up-and-coming vibe, Pilsen or Bridgeport should be on your radar. These neighborhoods are known for their lively arts communities, authentic Mexican cuisine, and unique architecture. You'll find plenty of four-bedroom apartments in converted warehouses, charming townhomes, and rehabbed factory buildings.

No matter which part of the city you choose, finding a four-bedroom apartment in Chicago is all about knowing your priorities and being open to exploring different areas. With a little patience, Domu’s expert guides, and some serious sleuthing skills, you're sure to find the perfect spot to call home.

 

When to Find Four-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago

Before you start scouring the listings and hitting up open houses, there's one big factor to consider: timing. Believe it or not, the time of year you start your search can make a big difference in terms of availability, competition, and even price. While you may be restricted based on when your current lease ends, and if you have kids, when they need to be moved in and ready for school, having some flexibility can go a long way in saving money and finding the perfect four-bedroom rental in Chicago.

If you're hoping to score a great deal on rent or move-in costs, planning a winter move might be your best bet. From December through February, the rental market tends to slow down a bit, with fewer people moving and more vacancies available. The pros: You'll have less competition from other renters, so landlords may be more willing to negotiate on rent or offer move-in specials to fill their empty units. The cons: There won’t be as many available units, as people are less likely to move out during a Chicago snowstorm, and most leases tend to expire in the spring and summer.

If you're not a fan of putting snow chains on a moving truck or are on a tight timeline, the spring and summer months cover the standard moving season. From May through August, the rental market in Chicago is in full swing, with plenty of new listings hitting the market every day. You’ll have a wider selection of apartments to choose from, and you'll be able to see each place in its full summer glory (no need to imagine what that rooftop deck looks like without a foot of snow on it).

The downside is that competition can be fierce, especially in popular neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or Wicker Park. You'll need to be ready to act fast when you find a place you love, and you might have to be willing to pay a bit more in rent to secure your apartment. To prepare yourself for what’s to come when you find a place you like, check out Domus guide to Understanding the Apartment Application Process.

Ultimately, the best time to search for a four-bedroom apartment in Chicago depends on your unique needs and preferences. If you're on a tight budget and don't mind a bit of cold weather, a winter search might be in the cards. If you're looking for the widest selection of apartments and don't mind a bit of competition, the summer months might be your jam. And if you're somewhere in between, spring or fall could offer an ideal middle ground.

 

Affordable Four-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago Neighborhoods

Just because you're on the hunt for one of the biggest rentals in Chicago, that doesn't mean you have to drain your savings account or sell your soul to the rental gods. Believe it or not, there are plenty of affordable four-bedroom apartments scattered throughout Chicago's many neighborhoods, you just need to know where to look. Take it from our experts: these neighborhoods are some of the best spots to score a budget-friendly four-bedroom rental in the Windy City.

  • Rogers Park ($3,000-$3,700): This far north neighborhood might not yet be a pin on your map, but it definitely should be. With its diverse population, laid-back vibe, and easy access to the Red Line, this area is a hidden gem for renters looking for more space at a reasonable price. You’ll find plenty of vintage courtyard buildings and mid-rise apartments with four bedrooms in Rogers Park, and at a steal compared to some of the city's pricier neighborhoods.
  • Uptown ($3,100-$4,200): This historic neighborhood has seen a lot of new development in recent years, but there are still plenty of affordable four-bedroom options to be found. Check out the area around the Wilson Red Line stop, where you can find spacious vintage apartments and newer construction buildings with beautiful rentals. And who could argue with being a quick walk away from Montrose Beach and some of the city's best live music venues!
  • Humboldt Park ($3,500-$4,200): This vibrant, artsy area has a mix of classic Chicago architecture and new construction, with plenty of four-bedroom apartments in Humboldt Park listed at very reasonable prices. You can find vintage Greystone flats, converted lofts, and rehabbed townhomes surrounded by fantastic eateries in a neighborhood that loves to celebrate its rich Puerto Rican culture. One of the biggest draws to this spot is its proximity to the 606 trail, a nearly 3-mile-long multi-use trail that connects some of Chicago’s top neighborhoods. Strap on your jogging shoes or hop on your bike and venture off to local parks, museums, plazas, and more.
  • Pilsen ($3,200-$3,800): This historic neighborhood on the Lower West Side has a strong Latino heritage and a thriving arts scene, with colorful murals and street art around every corner. Four-bedroom apartments in Pilsen are located within vintage buildings and new construction, and with the Pink Line providing quick access to downtown, the excitement of city life is never far away.
  • Bridgeport ($2,900-$3,500): This up-and-coming neighborhood has a lot to offer renters on a budget, and four-bedroom apartments in Bridgeport are often listed at prices that seem too good to be true. If you end up calling this area home, you'll have all the trendy restaurants and bars of Pilsen and Chinatown nearby. And with the Sox stadium down the street, you'll never have to worry about finding something to do on game day.
  • Albany Park ($2,500-$3,700): Located on the northwest side of the city, this neighborhood is kid-friendly and foodie-approved. Whether you’re looking for a vintage palace or a modern charmer, four-bedroom apartments in Albany Park will surely put a smile on your face. The local Eugene Field Park is a local favorite, and for those who love Korean food, you’ll never run out of new places to try.
  • Avondale ($2,900-$5,000): Just north of Logan Square, Avondale is where people who want to enjoy a laid-back lifestyle move. But that doesn’t mean it's boring! On Milwaukee Avenue, there’s more than enough to do, whether it's a haircut at a vintage salon, vintage shopping, or hitting up a Wes Anderson-inspired bowling alley. You’ll have your pick of home styles, with four-bedroom apartments in Avondale located in vintage buildings and converted warehouses.
  • Edgewater ($2,900-$5,000): If you're dreaming of a home with a lake view, Edgewater welcomes you with open arms. This far north neighborhood has a variety of affordable rental options, from vintage courtyard buildings to newer high-rises. You can find four-bedroom apartments in Edgewater next to some of the city's best restaurants, two beaches, and the popular Lakefront Trail.
  • Hyde Park ($3,600-$4,600): Home to the University of Chicago, Hyde Park is where intellectuals gather and chat in cozy cafes and over zucchinis at the weekly farmers market. While there are plenty of students roaming the shelves at Powell’s Books Chicago, this is a very family-friendly neighborhood with large parks, pretty beaches, and locally owned businesses. That said, four-bedroom apartments in Hyde Park are a coveted find, so look early and look often!
  • Irving Park ($2,500-$3,700): For the ultimate experience in suburban life, this is the neighborhood you want to look into. With tree-lined streets, quaint cafes, great public transit, and parks galore, finding a four-bedroom apartment in Irving Park is like striking gold. Here, you’ll see kids playing catch in front yards, neighbors chatting it up on the corner, and people walking by saddled with shopping bags from an afternoon downtown.

 

Luxury Four-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago Neighborhoods

  • Gold Coast ($6,200-$10,000+): If you're ready to live like royalty, the Gold Coast is the crown jewel of Chicago luxury. This ritzy enclave boasts some of the city's most stunning historic architecture, from grand mansions to ornate greystone walkups. Snag a four-bedroom apartment in the Gold Coast and you'll be treated to features like soaring ceilings, original fireplaces, and views that will make your jaw drop.
  • River North ($6,200-$10,000+): For those looking for a home that’s a feast for the eyes, a four-bedroom apartment in River North will satiate that gold tooth. This trendy neighborhood is home to some of the city's sleekest high-rises, many of which offer four-bedroom floor plans with all the bells and whistles. Floor-to-ceiling windows, top-of-the-line appliances, and amenities like rooftop pools and 24/7 concierge service. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for all that poshness.
  • Streeterville ($7,200-$10,000+): If you're dreaming of waking up to Insta-worthy lake views every morning, Streeterville will grow your following like no tomorrow. From penthouse apartments kissing the clouds to ground-level pads sitting next to the most delicious restaurants and finest shops, four-bedroom apartments in Streeterville are in a league of their own. Swimmers, Ohio Street Beach is a flip-flop away. Shoppers, enjoy all the perks of the Magnificent Mile. Art lovers, inspire yourself every weekend at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Whatever you’re into, Streeterville is ready to provide.
  • Lincoln Park ($4,300-$10,000+): This neighborhood has major appeal and for good reason. Whether it's the massive Lincoln Park itself, a 1,200-acre attraction with walking paths, museums, and even a zoo, or the Green City Market, a twice-weekly fresh food paradise, or the mix of small-town vibes and city energy, this is a place where opulent dreams are made. A four-bedroom apartment in Lincoln Park might cost you, but with so much packed into this neighborhood, you truly get what you pay for.
  • West Loop ($7,000-$10,000+): What started out as an industrial area has blossomed into a neighborhood with some of the city's hottest restaurants, bars, and high-end apartment buildings. Snagging a four-bedroom in the West Loop means living elbow-elbow with friendly neighbors, the famous Restaurant Row, and a nightlife that’s as exciting as downtown.

 

Different Styles of Four-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago

  • Vintage Four-Bedroom Apartments: Vintage apartments are overflowing with charm and character, with many having features like original fireplaces, stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork. Finding a four-bedroom in a historic home will give you all the vibes of classic Chicago architecture, but with modern amenities like indoor plumbing and a dishwasher.
  • Four-Bedroom Lofts: These spacious, high-ceilinged, light-filled spaces are perfect for artists, acrobats, and anyone who appreciates an unconventional home. With raw industrial elements like exposed beams, concrete floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows, you'll have plenty of room to let your creativity run wild.
  • Luxury Four-Bedroom Apartments: Indulge in the finer things in life with these upscale, modern apartments that come with all the high-end finishes and amenities you could dream of. From gourmet kitchens with professional-grade appliances to spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs and rainfall showers, every detail is designed to impress.
  • Four-Bedroom Townhomes: For those with kids, having a little more elbow room can mean all the difference between chill and chaos. With private entrances, attached garages, and outdoor spaces for grilling and chillin', everyone will have plenty of space to stretch out and live their best lives.
  • Four-Bedroom Houses: Live large in these standalone homes that come with all the perks of suburban living, like spacious yards, ample parking, and plenty of room for your growing brood. With four bedrooms and then some, you and your roommates will enjoy the cost-cutting perks of living together, while having enough space for separate lives.
  • Four-Bedroom High-Rise: Take to the skies in these sleek, modern towers that offer unparalleled views of the city skyline. With four bedrooms and plenty of square footage, you'll have room to host epic game nights or movie marathons with your crew. And with top-notch amenities like rooftop pools, fitness centers, and 24/7 concierge service, you'll feel like you're living in a five-star hotel.
  • Short-Term Four-Bedroom Apartment: Keep your options open with these flexible, short-term rentals that let you test out different neighborhoods and living situations without committing to a long-term lease. With fully furnished four-bedroom apartments available for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, you can live like a local and explore all that Chicago has to offer before settling down.

 

Understanding the Cost of Renting a Four-Bedroom Apartment in Chicago

When it comes to renting a four-bedroom apartment in Chicago, there are not a lot of differences when it comes to expenses. You have your rent and utilities, and then some extra costs like application fees, move-in fees, security deposits, parking, renters insurance, and pet fees. These are all dependent on where you move, what kind of building you choose, and who’s coming along for the ride (cats, dogs, giant lizards). To help break down these numbers, Domu has put together this article on the expected costs to rent an apartment in Chicago.

But before you even click “search” on our listings page, it's important to have a clear idea of what you can afford. One easy way to do this is to use the good old rent-to-income ratio. Basically, you want to make sure that your monthly rent doesn't eat up more than 30% of your gross monthly income. Run your income through the Domu Rent Calculator and see what pops up.

While the 3:1 guideline is a good one, this is just a general rule of thumb, and everyone's financial situation is unique. Some folks might be able to stretch their budget a bit more, while others might need to be a bit more conservative. With the rising cost of living in Chicago (and around the country), we suggest starting low at 4:1, or 25% of your income, and moving up from there if needed.

Another thing to keep in mind is your credit score. When you apply for a four-bedroom apartment in Chicago, landlords will usually do a credit check to get a sense of your financial responsibility. A higher credit score (we're talking 700 or above) can make you a more appealing candidate and might even give you a bit of negotiating power. On the other hand, a lower credit score could make it harder to get approved or might mean you have to put down a bigger security deposit. If your credit score is a bit on the "meh" side, don't freak out! We put together this Credit Score page for some expert tips on how to improve your number.

 

Comparing the Cost of Four-Bedroom and Three-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago

In most Chicago neighborhoods, upgrading from a three-bedroom to a four-bedroom apartment will result in a monthly rent increase of $500 to $1,000. More space = more money, basic math! Another factor driving this cost difference is that there are fewer four-bedroom apartments on the market, and when they are available, they get swooped up quickly by growing families or those who want to fill the place with roommates to lower their monthly costs.

In more upscale downtown neighborhoods, particularly in luxury apartment buildings, the cost difference can really start to skyrocket. Moving from a three-bedroom can add an extra $1,000, $2,000, or even more to your monthly rent. This is because, along with more space, you get prime real estate, high-end amenities, and incredible views.

Fortunately, while the rent may increase when adding an extra bedroom, many of the other costs won’t change too much. Application fees are often the same regardless of the apartment size and move-in fees and security deposits are usually equivalent to one month's rent, no matter the number of bedrooms. When it comes to utilities, you might see a slight bump, but unless your new roommate takes 2-hour showers, it will be a minimal increase.

 

Let’s Start Apartment Hunting!

Now that you’ve been primed with all the four-bedroom apartment information you’ll ever need, it’s time to start searching for your next dream rental. With Domu's advanced search filters, you can narrow down your options by neighborhood, price range, amenities, and more. And with our detailed neighborhood guides at your side providing insider tips and local insights, it won’t be long until you find the best area to suit your lifestyle.

Don't waste time scouring multiple websites or dealing with unreliable listings. Domu's verified listings and helpful tenant resources make the apartment-hunting process fun and successful. Start your search today and discover why thousands of Chicagoans trust Domu to help them find their perfect rental.