The 7 Best Student Housing Centers in Chicago

Finding the perfect place to live during your academic journey can significantly enhance your college experience. In a city as vibrant and diverse as Chicago, the options for student housing are abundant, each offering unique advantages and amenities. This guide from chicago.com will introduce you to the 7 best Student Housing Centers in Chicago, helping you make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and budget.

When considering student housing centers, it’s essential to evaluate the services and features they offer, as well as some critical aspects that can impact your stay. Here are some of the services and considerations:

Proximity to Campus: Consider how close the housing is to your school to save on commute time.
Amenities: Look for facilities like study rooms, gyms, laundry services, and common areas.
Furnished Apartments: Check if the housing comes with basic furnishings to ease your move-in process.
Safety: Evaluate the security measures in place, such as secure entry systems and surveillance.
Community Events: Opportunities for socializing and networking can enhance your college experience.
Lease Terms: Be aware of the length and flexibility of the lease agreements.
Cost: Compare prices, which can range from affordable to luxurious, typically measured in dollars per month.
Utilities: Determine if utilities like water, electricity, and internet are included in the rent.

With this guide, we aim to simplify your search and help you find a student housing center that feels like home while you pursue your studies in Chicago.

1. Tailor Lofts Apartments
2. The Buckingham
3. Solstice on the Park

4. City Hyde Park
5. The Flats at East-West University
6. 5252 Apartments
7. Windermere House Apartments

Number of companies

667

Verified reviews

4,03

Average rating

(630)4055269

1. Tailor Lofts Apartments

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 2,8/5

315 S Peoria St, 60607.0, Chicago

Apartment complex
Apartment building
Furnished apartment building
Student housing center

Why we chose them

Tailor Lofts Apartments, located in the historic “White Tower Building” in Chicago’s West Loop, offers an ideal living space for students attending nearby universities such as UIC, Rush, and Chicago-Kent College of Law. The iconic ten-story building, originally built in 1915 for the International Tailoring Company, now features a range of studio, two-, and four-bedroom apartments tailored to student needs. The apartments are fully furnished, with 13-foot ceilings and private rooms, ensuring comfort and convenience for residents. Retail stores on the first floor add to the vibrant community atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for students looking to balance study and leisure in a prime location.

The community amenities at this student housing center are designed to enhance the student living experience. Residents enjoy complimentary internet and utilities, making the value unbeatable. The complex boasts a 24-hour fitness center, computer lab with free printing, and a game room, catering to both academic and recreational needs. With individual leases available and a 24-hour doorman service, students can enjoy a secure and hassle-free living environment. The proximity to public transportation, the Loop, and various shops further enhances its appeal, offering students a seamless blend of academic focus and urban living.

(630)4055256

2. The Buckingham

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 3,5/5

59 E Van Buren St, 60605.0, Chicago

Student housing center
Apartment building
Apartment complex
Furnished apartment building

Why we chose them

The Buckingham is a premier student housing and apartment complex located in the heart of Chicago. Catering to students with its proximity to over 20 schools within a mile, this fully-furnished apartment building offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience. Each unit is thoughtfully designed with modern amenities such as hardwood-style flooring, a full-size fridge with an ice maker, and a 42″ flat-screen TV with premium channels. Residents can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the iconic Chicago skyline, making it a top choice for those seeking an enhanced urban living experience.

Not only does this apartment complex provide a strategic location for students, but it also offers a vibrant living environment enriched by the Wabash Arts Corridor’s artistic presence. With a variety of floor plans from studios to four-bedroom apartments, The Buckingham ensures that every lifestyle is accommodated. Its commitment to providing top-notch service and a community-focused atmosphere makes it the go-to destination for students in downtown Chicago. The professional and friendly staff are always ready to assist, enhancing the overall living experience for residents.

(773)8256651

3. Solstice on the Park

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

1616 E 56th St, 60637.0, Chicago

Apartment building
Apartment complex
Apartment rental agency
Condominium complex
Condominium rental agency
Furnished apartment building
Property management company
Student housing center

Why we chose them

Solstice on the Park Apartments offers a unique blend of luxury living and natural surroundings in the heart of Hyde Park. Nestled amidst 500 acres of green space, residents enjoy immediate access to Jackson Park’s playgrounds, gardens, and beaches. The apartment complex is designed by renowned architect Jeanne Gang, featuring a distinctive south façade that reflects the natural beauty of sun, sky, and trees. The large, open-floor apartments are designed to maximize natural light and offer stunning views of Chicago’s skyline and Hyde Park’s historic architecture. This thoughtful design incorporates sustainable practices, providing natural solar shading through its inclined windows, enhancing the living experience.

The vibrant and walkable neighborhood makes it easy for residents to enjoy the peaceful, tree-lined streets and historic charm of Hyde Park, all while being just 15 minutes from The Loop. Offering a variety of services, including apartment rentals, condominium rentals, furnished apartments, and student housing, the complex caters to diverse living needs. With amenities that support work, leisure, and social activities, residents have access to flexible spaces for exercise, study, and relaxation. This commitment to a balanced lifestyle in a serene environment makes Solstice on the Park a standout choice for those seeking harmony between urban living and natural tranquility.

(773)8256651

4. City Hyde Park

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

5105 S Harper Ave, 60615.0, Chicago

Apartment building
Apartment complex
Apartment rental agency
Condominium complex
Condominium rental agency
Furnished apartment building
Property management company
Student housing center

Why we chose them

City Hyde Park Apartments stands as a modern rental community located in the vibrant heart of downtown Hyde Park, offering a unique blend of urban living with breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan. Residents can enjoy the luxury of floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop deck for social gatherings, and well-appointed apartments designed for comfort and style. This visionary mixed-use tower is not only an apartment complex but also a hub for connection, featuring outdoor gardens and a fitness center, all within close reach of world-class parks and cultural venues.

The building’s innovative design, created by Studio Gang Architects, features a stunning concrete panel structure with dynamic bays, balconies, and sunshades, creating a seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces. In addition to its architectural marvel, the community offers a range of services, including property management, furnished apartment options, and student housing. Conveniently located just an elevator ride away from Whole Foods Market and steps from public transportation, residents enjoy unparalleled access to both the local neighborhood and the broader city landscape. This emphasis on wellness and connectivity makes the community a standout choice for our directory.

(312)9390112

5. The Flats at East-West University

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,2/5

829 S Wabash Ave, 60605.0, Chicago

Student housing center

Why we chose them

The Flats at East-West University offers an exceptional student housing experience in the vibrant South Loop area of Chicago. Known for its modern architecture and ample living space, this housing center provides a luxurious lifestyle tailored to students’ needs. Residents can choose from studio, two, and three-bedroom floor plans, each designed to create a welcoming community atmosphere where students can thrive both academically and socially. The beautifully landscaped community features a range of amenities, such as study spaces, a basketball court, and resident lounges, ensuring a perfect balance between work and play.

Designed with the student’s lifestyle in mind, the apartments at this location are not just about providing a place to live but about offering a comprehensive living experience. Residents can enjoy the vibrant, active atmosphere while having access to everything they need to succeed, all within reach of downtown Chicago. With options that accommodate various academic schedules, including semi-academic and annual terms, the housing center caters to diverse student needs, making it a standout choice in the neighborhood.

(773)8256651

6. 5252 Apartments

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,4/5

5252 S Cornell Ave, 60615.0, Chicago

Apartment building
Apartment complex
Apartment rental agency
Condominium complex
Condominium rental agency
Furnished apartment building
Property management company
Student housing center

Why we chose them

5252 Apartments offers an extraordinary living experience in the vibrant heart of Hyde Park, with luxury 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments for rent. Ideally situated near the 51st/53rd St. Metra station, these exquisitely appointed residences provide panoramic views of Lake Michigan, downtown Chicago, or both. Residents enjoy exclusive access to a host of premium amenities, including stylish lounges, a library, a billiard room, meeting work rooms, a party room, an outdoor pool, cabanas, a private lawn, rooftop lounges, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

These dramatic new apartments are just steps away from premier shopping, dining, lakefront recreation, and the University of Chicago, offering a truly elevated lifestyle. Known for its luxurious finishes and breathtaking views, the company serves as an apartment building, complex, rental agency, condominium complex, and even a student housing center. With furnished options and comprehensive property management services, it seamlessly integrates sophisticated living with the dynamic energy of Hyde Park.

(773)8256651

7. Windermere House Apartments

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

1642 E 56th St #1, 60637.0, Chicago

Apartment building
Apartment complex
Apartment rental agency
Condominium complex
Condominium rental agency
Furnished apartment building
Property management company
Student housing center

Why we chose them

Windermere House Apartments stands as a hallmark of elegance and sophistication, rooted in its origins as one of Chicago’s premier 1920s apartment hotels. This architectural gem combines the charm of French and Italian Renaissance styles with modern amenities, creating an exceptional living experience. Residents enjoy meticulously preserved original details such as plaster, wood, terrazzo, terra cotta, brass, copper, and bronze, all while benefiting from contemporary conveniences like a fitness center, on-site restaurant, and 24-hour front desk service. Overlooking Jackson Park, it offers an ideal location with easy access to the University of Chicago, local dining, and shopping options.

As a comprehensive apartment building, apartment complex, and property management company, this residence caters to a diverse clientele, including students and professionals seeking furnished or long-term accommodations. The building’s services encompass apartment rental agency, condominium complex, and student housing center, ensuring a tailored fit for various lifestyle needs. With features like bike storage, concierge services, and extra storage availability, the property effortlessly blends historical prestige with the demands of modern urban living.

FAQs

What amenities are typically offered by student housing centers in Chicago?

Student housing centers in Chicago often offer amenities such as study rooms, fitness centers, laundry facilities, common areas for socializing, and sometimes even rooftop terraces or game rooms.

How much does student housing in Chicago usually cost per month?

The cost of student housing in Chicago can vary significantly, typically ranging from €700 to €1,500 per month, depending on location, amenities, and whether the apartment is shared or private.

Are utilities usually included in the rent for student housing in Chicago?

Many student housing centers in Chicago include utilities such as water, electricity, and internet in the rent, but it's essential to confirm this with each specific housing option.

What factors should I consider when choosing a student housing center?

Consider proximity to campus, available amenities, safety features, community activities, lease terms, cost, and whether the housing is furnished. These factors can significantly affect your living experience.

How secure are student housing centers in Chicago?

Security measures in student housing centers usually include secure entry systems, surveillance cameras, and sometimes on-site security personnel. It's important to inquire about specific security features when choosing a place.

What is the typical lease term for student housing in Chicago?

Lease terms can vary, but many student housing centers offer flexible lease options ranging from six months to a year. It's important to check the specifics before signing a lease.

How can I find a good student housing center in Chicago?

Research online reviews, visit housing fairs, talk to current students, and consult your university's housing office. These steps can help you gather valuable information to make an informed decision.

When should I start looking for student housing in Chicago?

It's advisable to start your search at least three to six months before your intended move-in date to ensure you have ample time to explore options and secure a place that meets your needs.