Houses For Rent in Chicago

If you’re looking for a little more space in Chicago, renting a house might be just the answer. While apartments dominate the rental market, houses offer a unique living experience that many Chicagoans crave. It’s hard to say no to having a personal mailbox, maybe a patch of grass to call your own, and no upstairs neighbors doing late-night aerobics, but here's the catch: finding a house to rent in Chicago can be challenging, especially if you've got your heart set on downtown living. In the bustling city center and nearby neighborhoods, houses are about as common as a quiet day at Navy Pier (read: not very). And when you do find them, they often come with a price tag that might make your eyes water.

Don't worry, though! If you're willing to explore beyodnd the shadow of the Willis Tower, you'll find that Chicago has plenty of fantastic neighborhoods where rental houses are more abundant and often more affordable. From charming bungalows to classic two-flats, Chicago's residential areas offer a variety of housing styles that could be your next home sweet home.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about renting a house in Chicago. Whether you're a long-time apartment dweller ready for an upgrade, a growing family in need of more space, or a newcomer moving to the city looking for that quintessential Chicago experience, Domu is here with the insider scoop!

Why Rent a House in Chicago? The Perks You Can't Ignore

When it comes to finding your perfect Chicago rental, houses offer some serious advantages that might make you reconsider that high-rise apartment. Renting a house in Chicago could be your best move yet for several reasons. First things first: space. Houses for rent in Chicago typically provide more square footage than your average apartment. With multiple floors, separate living areas, and perhaps even a basement for your dusty Peloton, reaching 10,000 steps a day will be easy with the bathroom on the second floor. Whether you need a dedicated office or you're simply tired of tripping over your roommate's shoes, a house rental can offer the elbow room you've been dreaming of.

Another significant perk is privacy. Craving some peace and quiet? Renting a house often means saying goodbye to shared walls (and the noise that comes with them). No more listening to your neighbor's late-night TV marathons or early-morning workout routines. In a city that never sleeps, having your own space can be a real sanity-saver. Plus, with a private entrance, you can come and go as you please without the awkward elevator small talk.

One of the biggest advantages of renting a house in Chicago is the potential for outdoor space. Many houses come with yards, patios, or even rooftop decks. Imagine hosting summer BBQs, starting a small garden, or simply enjoying your morning coffee in the fresh air. For pet owners, a fenced yard can be a game-changer, and the convenience of private parking is a true luxury in a city where parking can be a full-contact sport.

Finally, houses are typically located in more residential areas, giving you a chance to really become part of a neighborhood. You might find yourself chatting with neighbors over the fence, participating in block parties, or becoming a regular at the local coffee shop. It's a great way to experience the unique character of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. While renting a house in Chicago comes with many benefits, every renter's needs are different, so take the time to weigh these perks against your personal priorities and budget of costs to rent a house. Knowing your optimal rent-to-income ratio will help narrow down your search, and while you’re doing this foundational work, take a look at your credit score to see where you stand. Although there are other factors landlords consider when choosing whom to rent to, this can play a role in their decision-making process.

Inside Chicago Rental Houses: Compact Living, Big Character

When you're on the hunt for houses for rent in Chicago, it helps to know what you're looking at. Chicago houses have a character all their own, shaped by the city's history and the need to make the most of urban space. Let's take a virtual tour of a typical Chicago house:

House Dimensions: Maximizing Every Inch

A standard Chicago lot measures about 25 feet wide by 125 feet deep. This unique dimension has shaped the way Chicago houses are built, giving them a distinctive look and feel. Given the narrow lot size, most Chicago houses are about 18-19 feet wide. This leaves room for narrow gangways (that's Chicago-speak for the passageways between houses) on each side. The house itself typically stretches about 60 feet deep, leaving room for a backyard and sometimes a garage at the rear of the lot.

With limited horizontal space, Chicago houses go up instead of out. Most rental houses in Chicago feature 2-3 floors above ground, plus a basement. This vertical layout gives you plenty of living space without sacrificing your outdoor areas. It's not uncommon to find:

• First Floor: Often includes the main living areas – living room, dining room, and kitchen.
• Second Floor: Usually home to bedrooms and bathrooms.
• Third Floor (if present): Might have an additional bedroom, office, or bonus space.
• Basement: A Chicago staple! Often finished and usable, providing extra living space, storage, or even a laundry room (!).

Many houses feature charming details like bay windows, which adds architectural interest and brings more natural light into these narrow homes. You might also find beautiful wooden staircases connecting the floors, adding a touch of vintage charm. In older Chicago houses, keep an eye out for original features like crown molding, hardwood floors, or even the occasional fireplace. These elements, combined with modern updates, create a living space that's both functional and full of character.

All of these elements come together to create homes that are uniquely Chicago – efficient, versatile, and full of surprises. Whether you're in a classic Chicago bungalow or a converted three-flat, you're living in a piece of the city's architectural history. So when you're house hunting, remember – in Chicago, good things often come in narrow packages!

Homes For Rent With Outdoor Spaces: Your Urban Oasis

Despite the compact lot size, many Chicago houses for rent come with outdoor spaces that'll help you forget you're in the heart of a bustling city. Behind many homes, you'll discover a backyard – your personal retreat for grilling with friends, trying your hand at urban gardening, or simply unwinding after a long day. These spaces, though sometimes snug, become extensions of your living area, especially in the warmer months. At the rear of the property, accessed by one of Chicago's characteristic alleys, you'll typically find a garage. Some savvy homeowners have transformed their garage roofs into decks, creating bonus outdoor living spaces that offer unique views of the neighborhood. Don't overlook the front yard either; while often modest in size, it's your opportunity to make a statement. A bit of thoughtful landscaping here can boost curb appeal and contribute to the overall charm of Chicago's tree-lined streets.

These outdoor nooks and crannies, from back to front, transform your Chicago rental house into a true urban oasis, giving you room to breathe amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

Finding Your Perfect Fit: Chicago Homes for Rent by Size

When it comes to houses for rent in Chicago, size matters. Whether you're flying solo, starting a family, or planning to live with roommates, there's a rental house out there that's just right for you. Let's break down the options by bedroom count, along with what you can expect in terms of availability and price.

2 Bedroom Houses for Rent in Chicago

• Perfect for: Singles who love their space, couples who need a guest room (or just breathing room), small families starting their Chicago adventure, or anyone dreaming of a dedicated home office.
• Typical features: You'll usually score a living room for Netflix binges, a kitchen for reheating leftovers (or cooking, if that's your thing), and one bathroom. Some lucky renters might even snag a basement for extra storage or a small yard for summertime lounging.
• Availability: Two-bedroom houses for rent are relatively easy to find in Chicago, especially if you're willing to explore beyond the Loop. The further you move from downtown, the more options you'll likely discover.
• Price range: Your wallet can expect to shell out anywhere from $1,200 to $2,500 per month. Of course, that swanky Lincoln Park address will cost you more than a cozy spot in Portage Park. Remember, in Chicago, location is everything!

3 Bedroom Houses for Rent in Chicago

• Perfect for: Small to medium-sized families (hello, kids' rooms!), friend groups ready to split the rent, or couples who want space for a home office AND a guest room.
• Typical features: You're looking at the whole pie here - a living room, dining area, kitchen, 1-2 bathrooms, and often a basement. Many come with a backyard and even a garage.
• Availability: Good news! 3-bedroom houses often top the charts in search results because they're the sweet spot for many families and groups of friends. They're common in many of Chicago's residential neighborhoods, from Ravenswood to Beverly.
• Price range: Expect to shell out between $1,800 to $3,500 per month. Remember, a view of the lake might cost you, but hey, that's prime Chicago living!

4 Bedroom Houses for Rent in Chicago

• Perfect for: Larger families, friend groups (or groups of strangers who want to become friends), and those who need separate spaces for living, working, and welcoming out-of-town guests awed by the Magnificent Mile.
• Typical features: These multi-story homes will give you a workout without a gym membership. Expect ample living space, multiple bathrooms, a finished basement, and outdoor areas.
• Availability: It's a bit like finding the perfect slice of pizza - not on every corner, but worth the search. They're less common than their 2-3 bedroom cousins but still discoverable in many of Chicago's residential areas.
• Price range: Your wallet's looking at $2,500 to $5,000+ per month. Prices can swing wildly based on whether you're in swanky Lincoln Park or charming Bridgeport and whether your place has been updated since the Cubs last won the World Series.

5+ Bedroom Houses for Rent in Chicago

• Perfect for: Large families who need a bedroom for every Cubs fan, multi-generational families wanting to keep Grandma close but not too close, and friend groups aiming to recreate their college dorm experience (but with way better amenities).
• Typical features: We're talking the Chicago version of mansions here, folks! Expect older homes with 3+ stories, bathrooms aplenty, living rooms big enough for.. well, anything, and outdoor spaces big enough to grow your own food for the year. Some of these beauties might even have a view of the lake or skyline - if you're really lucky.
• Availability: About as rare as a calm day on Lake Michigan. Your best bet? Scout out those grand old dames in established neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or Hyde Park.
• Price range: These Chicago palaces typically go for $4,500 to $8,000+ per month.

Availability and Price Factors

Keep in mind that availability and prices for houses for rent in Chicago can vary significantly based on several factors:

• Location: Houses closer to downtown or in trendy neighborhoods generally command higher rents.
• Season: The rental market tends to be more competitive (and potentially pricier) during peak moving seasons, typically spring and summer.
• Condition: Newly renovated or updated homes often come with a higher price tag.
• Amenities: Features like updated appliances, central air, or a garage can increase both desirability and cost.

These price ranges are general estimates and can fluctuate based on market conditions. It's always a good idea to check current listings to get a feel for the present market rates in your desired neighborhoods.

Neighborhoods with the Most Houses for Rent

With dozens and dozens (over 6-dozen, in fact) of neighborhoods to choose from, Chicago is your oyster when it comes to finding a home to rent. That said, here are the most likely ‘hoods to have a home you fall in love with:

• Beverly: Ever dreamed of renting a house with actual hills in Chicago? Beverly's got you covered! This far South Side gem is like a slice of suburbia that forgot to leave the city. With historic homes that'll make your architecture-loving heart skip a beat, Beverly is perfect for families who want space to spread out without sacrificing their Chicago zip code.
• Sauganash: If you're looking to play "house rental bingo," Sauganash is your board. Tudor-style next to mid-century modern? Check! Generous yards that'll make your dog think he's died and gone to heaven? You bet! This Northwest Side hideaway is so green and peaceful that you might forget you're in Chicago – until you see the skyline peeking through the trees.
• Mount Greenwood: Welcome to Mount Greenwood, where the city meets Mayberry! This southwestern neighborhood is bungalow heaven, perfect if you're looking to rent a slice of classic Chicago. With more city workers per square foot than a downtown office building, you'll feel safe enough to leave your doors unlocked – but don't actually do that, okay?
• North Park: North Park is like that cool, smart friend who also knows how to party responsibly. Home to Northeastern Illinois University, this hood offers everything from cute vintage apartments to full-on houses, often with price tags that won't make you choke on your deep dish. Plus, with the North Park Village Nature Center nearby, you can pretend you're camping every weekend!
• Norwood Park: Step into Norwood Park, and you might think you've time-traveled to charming small-town USA – until you hop on the Metra and zip downtown in no time. With a wacky circular street layout (take that, Chicago grid!), you'll find rental homes ranging from cozy bungalows to Victorian mansions that'll make you feel like Chicago royalty. Just be prepared for some serious house envy from your downtown friends!
• Roscoe Village: Imagine renting a house where strollers and dog leashes outnumber parking meters. Welcome to Roscoe Village, the land of "I can't believe this is still Chicago!" With tree-lined streets and enough cute boutiques to drain your wallet, this neighborhood is perfect for those who want a small-town feel without sacrificing their city status. Just don't be surprised if your rental comes with an organic vegetable garden – it's practically a requirement here.
• Jefferson Park: Calling all house hunters who can't decide between city living and suburban bliss! Jefferson Park is your indecisive dream come true. This Northwest Side gem offers rentals that'll give you enough space to finally learn the accordion without annoying the neighbors. Plus, with the Blue Line and Metra at your doorstep, you can be downtown faster than you can say, "Wait, why did I learn the accordion?" •
• Avondale: Avondale is like that indie band you discovered before they hit it big – hip, but not yet hiked-up prices. This up-and-coming hood is a treasure trove of rental houses with character (and yes, that sometimes means "needs a little TLC"). From classic Chicago two-flats to single-family homes, you'll find plenty of space to house your growing vinyl collection and still have room for, you know, actual furniture.
• Portage Park: If you're looking to rent a house with a yard big enough for a game of touch football, Portage Park is calling your name. This family-friendly area is home to one of the largest parks in Chicago – perfect for those "I should really exercise more" New Year's resolutions. With a mix of bungalows and multi-bedroom homes up for grabs, you might just find yourself hosting the next neighborhood block party.
• Irving Park: Step into Irving Park, where renting a house means you're just as likely to bump into a Victorian mansion as you are a taco joint that'll change your life. This melting pot of a neighborhood offers homes to suit every taste – whether you're after vintage charm or modern digs. Just be warned: with the abundance of global cuisines at your doorstep, your kitchen might start feeling a bit neglected.
• North Center: Think of North Center as the overachiever of Chicago neighborhoods – it's got a little bit of everything and does it all well. Renting a house here means you're never more than a stone's throw from a craft brewery, a top-notch school, or a park that'll make you forget you're in a city.
• Albany Park: One of Chicago's most diverse neighborhoods, Albany Park is perfect for those who want to travel the world without leaving their block. Houses for rent here come in all shapes and sizes, much like the restaurant menus.
• Rogers Park: This far-north neighborhood boasts more beaches than some small countries and enough rental houses to ensure you're never too far from a sandy escape. Just remember, "beachwear optional" only applies to the actual beach, not your local coffee shop.
• Gage Park: This South Side gem is a treasure trove of affordable houses, from brick bungalows to charming two-flats. It's perfect for first-time renters or families looking for space without breaking the bank. Just be prepared for your friends to suddenly want to crash at your place every weekend – Gage Park's community events are legendary.
• Brighton Park: This Southwest Side neighborhood offers a solid selection of rental houses. From classic Chicago-style bungalows to spacious multi-bedroom homes, you'll find plenty of options to suit your needs. Plus, with the Orange Line nearby, you can be downtown before you can finish saying "What should we do tonight?"
• West Lawn: If you're looking to rent a house with a yard big enough to host a small wedding, West Lawn might be your ceremonial spot. Located in the Southwest Side of Chicago, it’s a haven for spacious homes and quiet streets. It's the kind of place where you can actually hear birds chirping instead of car horns honking. Just don't be surprised if your rental comes with friendly neighbors who actually want to chat – West Lawn is all about that community vibe. 
• East Garfield Park: This West Side neighborhood is on the up-and-up, offering rental houses with plenty of character and style. With the Garfield Park Conservatory in your backyard, you'll always have a tropical getaway, even in the dead of Chicago winter.
• Lincoln Square: Lincoln Square is what happens when European charm and Midwestern friendliness have a beautiful baby. Renting a house here means you're never too far from a German beer garden or a quaint café. With a mix of single-family homes and multi-unit buildings, you might have a multi-generational family on one side and a building full of freshmen on the other!
• Lincoln Park: Welcome to Lincoln Park, where renting a house means you're as likely to bump into a college student as you are a CEO walking their designer dog. This lakefront neighborhood is like a greatest hits album of Chicago living – you've got beaches, you've got parks, you've got that zoo where the lions judge your fashion choices. From vintage walk-ups to luxury homes, there's a rental for every budget (as long as that budget is "comfortable" to "wow, really?").
• Lakeview: Lakeview is like Chicago's "Choose Your Own Adventure" book. Wanna live where the Cubs play? Check. Prefer a quiet, tree-lined street? Got that, too. This chameleon of a neighborhood offers rental houses for every taste, from kitschy vintage vibes to sleek and modern masterpieces. Heads up: a lot of your friends are going to "drop by" constantly – especially if you find a place with a rooftop deck and a view of the lake.
• Bucktown: Bucktown is a trendy neighborhood northwest of downtown. Known for its artistic vibe, boutique shopping, and dining scene, it's ideal for renters looking for a hip, urban environment with a touch of local charm.

Houses for Rent by Owner in Chicago

In Chicago's rental market, many houses are owned by individuals rather than large companies. These private landlords often manage their properties personally, handling everything from showings to maintenance. Renting directly from an owner can offer several advantages. You might enjoy a more personal experience, greater flexibility in lease terms, and quicker decision-making on issues like repairs. Some owners even pass on savings from not using property management companies, and many landlords have local knowledge that can be invaluable to new tenants.

However, there are considerations to keep in mind. The level of professionalism can vary, and response times might be slower compared to large companies with 24/7 staff. Processes may be less formal, and if you need to move, a private owner won't have a portfolio of other properties to offer.

When renting from a private owner in Chicago, it's crucial to get all agreements in writing, verify the owner's credentials, and understand your rights under Chicago's Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. Clear communication from the start and thorough property inspections are key to a successful rental experience.

While you might spot "For Rent" signs in neighborhoods, online platforms like Domu make it easier to connect with private owners. Our listings include many houses for rent by owners in Chicago, allowing you to explore options across the city from the comfort of your couch.

Renting Houses in Chicago: What You Need to Know Before Signing the Lease

So, you've decided to explore houses for rent in Chicago. Great choice! But before you start picturing yourself grilling in the backyard or decorating your new living room, let's talk about some important factors to consider. Renting a house is different from apartment living, and in Chicago, it comes with its own unique set of considerations. Don’t feel shy about asking questions before you start the application process; the more you know, the better.

• Maintenance: As a house renter, your chores list is going to get a little longer. You might be in charge of lawn care, snow removal, and minor repairs, while the landlord typically handles major systems like HVAC and plumbing. Be sure to clarify these responsibilities in your lease to avoid future misunderstandings.
• Utilities: Keeping the lights on and the temp comfortable may cost a little more, particularly in older, less energy-efficient homes. Factor in heating and cooling expenses, especially given Chicago's extreme weather. Unlike many apartments, you may also be responsible for water, sewer, and garbage collection fees. It's wise to ask for estimated utility costs so that you can budget accurately.
• Location: Your choice of location will significantly impact your daily life. Consider proximity to public transit, parking availability (a precious commodity in many Chicago neighborhoods), and bike-friendliness if that's your preferred mode of transport. Don't forget to test your potential commute before committing to a rental.
• Local Amenities: Renting a house often means becoming part of a residential community. Evaluate the neighborhood's amenities, such as grocery stores, restaurants, parks, and schools. Many Chicago neighborhoods host street fests and farmers markets, which can help you feel connected to your new community. Spend time in the area at different hours to get a true feel for the neighborhood vibe.
• Weatherproofing: Never underestimate the impact of Chicago winters. Consider the house's energy efficiency, snow removal responsibilities, and winter-friendly features like attached garages or covered entryways.

By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be better prepared to find a rental house that truly feels like home in the Windy City.

Your Chicago House Hunt Starts with Domu

From cozy bungalows to sleek modern homes, your perfect slice of Chicago is out there waiting. Don't let your dream house slip away! Dive into Domu's listings now and take the first step towards making one of these empty canvases a work of art. Your Chicago story starts with the turn of a key – let's find yours today!