Chicago Lofts For Rent

Why Choose a Loft Apartment in Chicago?

Loft living in Chicago gives renters a unique blend of style, space, and character that's hard (if not impossible) to find in traditional apartments. These spaces are architectural marvels, often featuring exposed brick walls, soaring ceilings, and expansive windows that frame incredible city views. The open floor plans and original architectural elements like columns, beams, and arches create a stylish and unique home, setting lofts apart from conventional apartments.

Space to Breathe

One of the most appealing aspects of loft living is the sheer spaciousness. Generous dimensions and high ceilings create a sense of volume and airiness that's hard to find in traditional apartments. This openness eliminates the cramped, boxed-in feeling often associated with city rentals, allowing for more creativity in designing the space. In a city where square footage comes at a premium, lofts offer room to breathe and grow.

Let in the Light

Natural light is another hallmark of loft apartments. Oversized windows in an industrial in style, flood these spaces with sunlight. Corner units may have windows on multiple walls and the open layout allows light to penetrate deep into the home. This reduces the need for artificial lighting, and if you love having plants, this is the type of home where you can start expanding your collection!

Live, Work, and Dream Big

The versatility of loft spaces is unmatched, accommodating various day-to-day and lifestyle needs. Whether you work from home, spend your off-time creating massive paintings, love hosting dinner parties, or have always dreamed of having a 10’x10’ screen projected ‘TV,’ lofts provide the flexibility to adapt the space to your unique needs. Suppose the loft you are eyeing has an open floor plan. In that case, there are plenty of temporary wall options to help you carve out distinct areas of your new home while keeping the spaciousness front and center.

Industrial Charm All Day Long

One of the biggest draws for potential residents is the industrial style of loft apartments. These spaces often retain elements of their original use, such as exposed wood or concrete beams, visible ductwork, and polished concrete floors. Far from being flaws, these features contribute to the loft's distinctive aesthetic, creating a living environment that feels both rugged and refined. This unique blend of raw industrial elements within modern living spaces adds a level of charm and character that is hard to replicate in traditional housing.

Living Among the Likeminded

Loft apartments, particularly those in designated artist communities, often attract a creative and diverse group of residents. This encourages a collaborative atmosphere where like-minded individuals can connect and inspire each other. For artists, designers, and other creative professionals, living in a loft can mean more than just a place to sleep. It can also provide networking opportunities and a constant source of inspiration right at home.

Location, Location, Location

Location is another significant advantage of many Chicago lofts, as these apartments can be found in many desirable neighborhoods scattered throughout the city. Whether you want to live near downtown, a major expressway, or steps from a public transportation hub, renting a loft will put you where you want to be. This prime positioning offers the best of city living, with easy access to work, entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions. This walkability and connectivity add significant value to the loft living experience.

A Taste of History at Home

Many loft apartments can be found in buildings with rich historical significance. From former factories and warehouses to converted schools and churches, these spaces allow residents to live in a piece of Chicago's architectural heritage. This connection to the past adds depth to the living experience, appealing to those who appreciate the city's industrial history and architectural evolution. It’s all too easy to spend an entire afternoon gazing out the massive windows at the city skyline, staring up at the sky-high rafters, and wondering about all the folks, businesses, and stories that took place in your home.

Modern Touches in Historic Lofts

While lofts love showing off their historical roots, many also showcase modern amenities to meet contemporary living standards. Renovated loft buildings often have fitness centers, rooftop decks, smart home technology, and other up-to-date conveniences. This fusion of historic charm with modern comforts creates a unique living experience for those who want the best of both worlds. With a backsplash of original brick from the 19th century serving as the backdrop for your modern Wolf oven, those dinner parties will be off the hook.

The Flexibility of Loft Living

The open nature of loft apartments provides unparalleled opportunities for customization. The lack of internal walls and predetermined room layouts allows residents to create a space that truly reflects their personality and meets their specific needs. From creating distinct living areas with creative partitions to adding mezzanine levels for additional space, the possibilities will seem endless.

Cost of Living in a Chicago Loft Apartment

When considering a loft apartment in Chicago, you’ll need to factor in the unique costs of living in these distinctive spaces. The city's diverse loft market caters to a wide range of budgets and preferences, but it also comes with just as many cost considerations.

Whether you're eyeing a converted warehouse in River North or a modern loft in the West Loop, understanding these financial nuances is key to finding your ideal home.

Rental Premiums and Market Demand

Due to their unique character and high demand, loft apartments are often more expensive than traditional apartments. This reflects not just the desirable features of lofts, but also their increasing popularity. If you are set on living in a loft, check out our "Understanding all Costs to Rent an Apartment in Chicago" and Domu's “Guide to Moving to Chicago” so that you have everything ready to go when you find the perfect place.

Amenities and Space Trade-offs

While lofts are prized for their spaciousness and architectural character, many loft buildings prioritize these features over extensive amenities. Unlike newer luxury apartment buildings, loft buildings may not have on-site gyms, pools, or concierge services. The trade-off is in the unique living space itself, so budget for external amenities like gym memberships if these are important to you.

Location and Neighborhood Considerations

Historically, many Chicago loft apartments were located in former industrial areas, which sometimes meant compromising on location. However, as Chicago's neighborhoods have evolved, most lofts are now in prime locations within desirable areas. This shift has further increased their appeal and, consequently, their cost. It's worth noting that while most loft types are centrally located, "artist lofts" may still be found in up-and-coming areas and slightly more affordable.

Utility Costs

The distinctive architecture of lofts, particularly their high ceilings and huge windows, can impact utility costs. Heating these spacious areas in Chicago's cold winters and cooling them during humid summers can be more expensive than in traditional apartments. When budgeting, factor in potentially higher energy bills, especially for units with large windows or less efficient insulation.

Parking and Transportation

Most loft buildings have parking, though this might come at an additional cost. Given their often central locations, public transportation is usually within walking distance, so you may decide to do away with the car altogether.

Seasonal Market Fluctuations and Rental Considerations

Chicago's rental market experiences seasonal fluctuations, with peak moving times during the summer. While there might be more on the market when the weather is warm, the competition will be stiff. Therefore, renting a loft during off-peak seasons might yield better results and in turn, better rates. If you’re unsure what you can afford, check out Domu's Rent Calculator to help dial in your perfect number.

When applying for a loft, be prepared for standard rental requirements, including security deposits, move-in fees, and credit checks. Lofts are often in high demand and can be rented quickly, so having a good credit score and being prepared to act fast could make all the difference. If you’re wondering “What Credit Score is Needed to Rent an Apartment”, check out our article for expert insights and tips!

Apartment Building Loft vs. Condo Loft

The choice between a loft in an apartment building or a condo can significantly impact your living experience and costs. Apartment building lofts usually come with a more straightforward deal. You have a standard lease, a building management company that oversees any issues, and it's more of a what-you-see-is-what-you-get kind of setup. These buildings generally have consistent policies for all tenants, creating a predictable living situation.

On the flip side, renting a condo loft from a private landlord can give you a more personalized experience but may come with its own set of considerations. You might have more room to negotiate terms or rent prices, the unit could have unique features or upgrades, and you might be able to talk them into letting you paint the accent wall electric blue, but he might be slower to respond to a leaking dishwasher.

Ultimately, both options have their advantages and drawbacks. Your choice will depend on factors like your preference for stability, your comfort with more personalized arrangements, and the specific features and locations of the lofts you're considering.

Popular Chicago Lofts for Rent

Industrial Lofts

The Otis The Otis in Pilsen combines industrial charm with modern luxury. Timber beam lofts feature exposed brick, quartz countertops, and custom cabinetry. Amenities include a rooftop deck with gas grills and a fully-equipped gym.

Library Lofts, situated in a historic building at 619 S. LaSalle St., blends classic architecture with modern amenities. Spacious loft-style apartments have high ceilings and stainless steel appliances. Community perks include a rooftop sun deck and fitness center.

Cobbler Square Lofts in Chicago's Old Town offers studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments with exposed brick and classic finishes in a historic building. Amenities include a rooftop sundeck with grilling stations, a fitness center, and a party room with billiards. It provides an unparalleled loft living experience.

15th Street Lofts in the South Loop offers historic charm and modern living. These converted loft homes feature spacious floor plans and contemporary amenities, within walking distance of Museum Campus and Grant Park.

1000 W Washington is a premier loft building in the West Loop. It offers timber lofts on one side and concrete lofts on the other, blending industrial aesthetics with a prime location. Residents enjoy the best of both worlds in this sought-after neighborhood.

Moser Building Lofts in Printer's Row offers an authentic "true-loft" experience. Converted in 1984, this 80-unit building features exposed brick, soaring ceilings, and vintage charm. Residents have easy access to the Loop, West Loop, and South Loop.

The Paper Place Lofts at 801 S. Wells combines vintage charm with modern comfort in the South Loop. Built in 1915, this condo development offers spacious units averaging 1,056 square feet, high-quality construction, and various amenities.

The Motor Row Lofts at 2301 S. Michigan in Chicago's South Loop offer a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury. This century-old building has been renovated to provide contemporary comforts while preserving its architectural character.

The Brewery Lofts: Located in Lakeview, this historic 1888 building, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a unique living experience. The award-winning conversion of the former Best Brewing Company features 77 distinctive loft apartments with exposed brick and many with tall, wood-beamed ceilings. Modern kitchens and bathrooms complement the historic charm. Enjoy amenities like two rooftop decks and a fitness center, all conveniently located near the vibrant Southport corridor.

Soft Lofts

Aviation Lofts: Rise above the ordinary in these South Loop homes with 12-foot ceilings. Enjoy sleek kitchens with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. Relax on your private balcony with city views. You're set for work and play with the lakefront and Chicago's best parks nearby.

AMLI Lofts: Where Printers Row meets modern luxury, AMLI Lofts offers soaring 10-foot ceilings with exposed concrete and spiral ductwork. Enjoy quartz countertops in designer kitchens and private balconies with South Loop skyline views. Amenities include a rooftop pool and a game room.

1348 N Milwaukee Lofts: Wicker Park's newest address offers luxury living with only nine exclusive units. Enjoy soaring ceilings, huge windows, and high-end kitchen and bathroom finishes. Choose from 3 or 4 bedrooms for ample space. Located in the heart of Wicker Park, you're steps from the Blue Line and The 606.

Roosevelt Collection Lofts: Where South Loop living gets a Hollywood twist. With a 16-screen cinema just an elevator ride away, every night can be movie night. The lofts features 10-foot ceilings, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Enjoy custom-tiled bathrooms and a private balcony with city views. Amenities include a fitness center, rooftop terrace, and guest suite. Roosevelt Collection is a prime place to live in South Loop.

Elevation Lofts: Rogers Park's Elevation Lofts offers city living at its finest. From studios to three-bedrooms, there's a home for everyone. Built in 2020, it features modern amenities, a gated pet lawn, a fitness center, and a rooftop deck with Lake Michigan views. Enjoy free WiFi, ButterflyMX, in-unit laundry, and on-site parking. Located near Howard Street and the lakefront.

Warehouse Lofts

The Lofts at River East: This 1900s warehouse, now a 285-unit marvel, offers a variety of 74+ floor plans. Exposed brick and hardwood floors retain its historic charm, while stainless steel appliances and granite countertops provide modern comfort. From cozy 1-bedrooms to spacious 3-bedroom havens, each loft includes in-unit laundry. Located in bustling Streeterville.

The Lake Street Lofts at 910 W Lake St, features 12-16 foot ceilings, exposed brick walls, and wood-beamed ceilings. These lofts have gas fireplaces, hardwood flooring, and spectacular skyline views. Residents enjoy stainless steel appliances, free high-speed internet, 24/7 laundry facilities, and a rooftop deck with a gas grill. With amenities like an elevator, door attendant, and on-site maintenance, plus easy access to public transportation and the Loop just five minutes away, this is a great place to call home.

The Field's Lofts combine warehouse charm with modern luxury. Units feature stainless steel appliances, gray-tone plank flooring, tile backsplashes, custom closets, and high ceilings (14-17 feet). Amenities include a fitness center, yoga lounge, party room, outdoor sundeck with grills, co-working space, secure package system, fobbed entrances, ample parking, and on-site management.

Southport Lofts, at 2061 N. Southport Avenue, is a desirable historic building with 90,000 SF of heavy timber and exposed brick, located between Bucktown and Lincoln Park. Residents have access to 21 acres of parks and trails. The fully rehabbed building includes 56 high-end residential units with 12’+ high ceilings, quartz countertops, in-unit laundry, and picturesque skyline views. Amenities feature a rooftop deck, fitness center, 24-hour lobby, package room, pet grooming station, and secure access.

Carriage House Lofts in the South Loop offers 1, 2, and 3-bedroom lofts with full-size washers and dryers, stainless steel appliances, wood-style floors, and skyline views. Amenities include a 24-hour fitness center, bike storage, covered parking, and a Fetch package system. Enjoy a smoke-free community with flexible rent payment options.

Wolcott Lofts, located in East Village/West Town, offers 20 spacious apartments with top-of-the-line finishes. Choose from timber lofts or contemporary designs. Units feature walk-in closets, quartz countertops, large kitchen islands, and stainless steel appliances. Amenities include a backyard beer garden with grills, outdoor furniture, and off-street parking.

China Club Lofts, located at 616 W Fulton, offers 111 loft-style condos in a historic building built in 1895 for Sears & Roebuck. Converted in 1997, the building features timber construction and retains its industrial charm. Situated in the vibrant Fulton Market District, residents enjoy proximity to top dining destinations, tech companies, and iconic brands. Amenities include nearby dog parks and easy access to Ogilvie Station, Union Station, and CTA Green/Blue lines, making it an ideal location for urban living.

Germain House at 925 Chicago is a high-end loft-style development in the trendy River West neighborhood, just blocks from River North. Originally an old tannery, this vintage brick and timber building is now a luxury residence featuring 36 units with high-end finishes and smart home technology. Amenities include a rooftop clubhouse and deck, fitness center, and stunning rooftop views.

The Fairfax offers a unique loft living experience in a historic building with modern upgrades. Kitchens feature quartz counters, ample cabinet space, under-mount sinks, and high-end Whirlpool gas ranges. Bathrooms include quartz counters, subway tiles, and excellent lighting. Units come with Whirlpool Duet front-load washers and dryers. The building retains original architectural details like exposed beams, timber pillars, and exposed brick. Located in the South Loop, residents are close to grocery stores, top restaurants, Grant Park, Museum Campus, and Lake Michigan.

540 N Lake Shore Lofts offers convenient urban living with heat, air conditioning, water, security, a doorman, TV/cable, exercise facilities, and more. Common areas include a bike room, coin laundry, elevator, exercise room, storage, sundeck, and on-site management. Each unit features a range, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Located in Streeterville, the building allows cats and offers 75 garage parking spaces.

1012 West Randolph Lofts is located in Chicago's Fulton Market District and offers renovated one and two-bedroom loft-style apartments. Each unit features hardwood floors, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, in-unit washer and dryer, and exposed brick. The community is pet-friendly and offers controlled access, 24/7 concierge services, Reside Rewards and Athletics programs, and is smoke-free.

Huron Street Lofts, located at 225 West Huron Street in River North, is a historic six-story brick and timber condominium building. Built in 1896, this former factory features 1-bedroom, 1-bath units with 12-foot timber beam ceilings, exposed brick, oversized windows, and unique floor plans. Amenities include a shared rooftop deck with grills and 360º city views, a fitness area, and on-site management.

Schools/religious Loft Conversions

The Synagogue, located on Kenmore Avenue near Argyle, is a newly renovated historic building with 40 units across three stories. Originally built in the 1920s, this former place of worship has been transformed into modern apartments while preserving architectural details like arched windows and stained glass. Amenities include in-unit laundry, air conditioning, exposed brick, a pet run, bike storage, and community Wi-Fi. Located just blocks from the lakefront and the vibrant "Asia on Argyle" dining stretch.

Stewart School Lofts, located in Uptown, was originally the Graeme Stewart Elementary School. This unique apartment community features studio to three-bedroom floor plans with original elements like brick walls, hardwood floors, and chalkboards, alongside modern finishes. Amenities include a panoramic rooftop deck, pet-friendly policies, and easy access to the Wilson L Red Line station. Each unit has high-end kitchens with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, elegant baths, in-unit washer and dryer, and some units even have private balconies.

The Mulligan School Lofts, a Chicago Public School originally constructed in 1889 and now a City of Chicago Historic Landmark, features 24 exquisitely appointed apartments. Amenities include onsite parking, an elevator, a rooftop deck with skyline views, a ground floor garden, storage units, Pressbox dry-cleaning, a secure package room, key fob access, bike storage, a mobile phone buzzer system, and security cameras. Each apartment has 14-foot ceilings, Bosch appliances, exposed ductwork, 8ft solid core doors, tiled bathrooms, stone countertops, roller blinds, in-unit laundry, walk-in closets, fireplaces, and oversized windows.

The Elizabeth Peabody School Lofts, originally constructed in 1884 by architect Auguste Fiedler and now a City of Chicago Historic Landmark, offers 23 luxury apartments in Wicker Park/Noble Square. Amenities include onsite garage parking, an elevator, a rooftop deck with skyline views, storage units, Tide dry-cleaning lockers, a fitness center, a package area, key fob access, bike storage, a mobile phone buzzer system, and security cameras. Apartments feature 14-foot ceilings, Bosch appliances, solid core doors, tiled bathrooms, stone countertops, roller blinds, in-unit laundry, walk-in closets, gas fireplaces, and oversized windows. Available in 1 and 2-bedroom layouts.

The Motley School Lofts, a former Chicago Public School and City of Chicago Historic Landmark built in 1884, is repurposed into 34 exquisite apartments. Amenities include onsite parking, an elevator, a rooftop deck with skyline views, a ground floor garden, storage units, Pressbox dry-cleaning, a secure package room, key fob access, bike storage, a mobile phone buzzer system, and security cameras. Apartments above the ground floor feature 14-foot ceilings, large Big Air ceiling fans, Bosch appliances, exposed ductwork, 8ft solid core doors, tiled bathrooms, stone countertops, roller blinds, in-unit laundry, and oversized windows. Available in 1 and 2-bedroom layouts.

The Buckingham Pew Lofts has 17 renovated apartments, some with 30-foot ceilings and original stained glass windows. Located on a picturesque tree-lined street in Lakeview, these 1 and 2-bedroom units feature granite countertops, in-unit Euro washer/dryers, tall ceilings, exposed ductwork, and some wood-burning fireplaces. Building amenities include a laundry room, gas grill and picnic table, storage lockers, and telephone intercom access.

The Grand Logan Lodge at 1847 N. Humboldt Blvd offers brand new two and three-bedroom apartments. These units feature open floor plans with natural light, private outdoor spaces, in-unit laundry, and central heating/cooling. There are also Spa-quality baths with porcelain tile and Grohe fixtures, and designer kitchens with quartz counters and stainless steel appliances. Amenities include keyless entry, video intercom security, assigned parking, a package receiving room, and a pet-friendly community. Utilities include water, sewer, trash, and high-speed internet. The Grand Logan Lodge is located steps from the 606 Trail and Logan Square's amenities. Each apartment has private outdoor spaces, tall ceilings, queen-size bedrooms with custom closets, and wide plank wood flooring. Designer kitchens have quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances, and spa-quality bathrooms have porcelain tile and Grohe fixtures. Modern amenities include in-unit laundry, central heating/cooling, insulated windows with roller shades, a bundled utility package, keyless entry, video intercom security, and a package receiving room. Pet-friendly with on-site parking available for an additional fee.

Lodge Evanston features 1, 2, and 3-bedroom layouts, including duplex penthouse units with private rooftop decks. Each residence has tall ceilings, custom closets, wide plank wood flooring, and designer kitchens with quartz countertops and black Samsung appliances. Bathrooms feature floor-to-ceiling porcelain tile. Amenities include in-unit laundry, central heating/cooling with smart thermostats, a communal rooftop deck, bike room, and video-enabled secure entry. Pet-friendly with on-site and off-site parking options available.