Moving to the CHI... (Chicago, Evanston: apartment, rent, how much)

[calirattler]

I'm recently finished by my graduate degree in Southern California. I was considering relocating the Chicago area. What areas would would be a decent place to live for a one bedroom apt? How much would rent be in these areas? I am a single black man in my late 20's.

[lakecountylifer]

Welcome to Chicago. If your looking at the burbs of Chicago generally the north and northwest suburbs are preferred. If your wanting a mix of the burbs with a feel for the city life----I would consider Evanston. It's got the "L" that heads into the city, the lakefront and good social options. I had an one bedrioom apartment in Evanston during the 90's for $800/month. I would think that $800 + could get you a 1 bedroom today still.

[BJT83]

Originally Posted by lakecountylifer

Welcome to Chicago. If your looking at the burbs of Chicago generally the north and northwest suburbs are preferred. If your wanting a mix of the burbs with a feel for the city life----I would consider Evanston. It's got the "L" that heads into the city, the lakefront and good social options. I had an one bedrioom apartment in Evanston during the 90's for $800/month. I would think that $800 + could get you a 1 bedroom today still.

Well, that didn't take long. Usually it takes a couple of posts for people to start asserting that the North and NW burbs are "preferred", whatever that means.

To the OP: there are many great communities in the West and SW burbs as well, and a few nice communities directly south of the city. Since you mentioned your race and that you have a graduate degree, are we to assume you are looking for an area that's diverse with many well-educated residents?

[lakecountylifer]

Originally Posted by BJT83

Well, that didn't take long. Usually it takes a couple of posts for people to start asserting that the North and NW burbs are "preferred", whatever that means.

To the OP: there are many great communities in the West and SW burbs as well, and a few nice communities directly south of the city. Since you mentioned your race and that you have a graduate degree, are we to assume you are looking for an area that's diverse with many well-educated residents?

As I said, "generally" defined as:

"Popularly or widely; As a rule; usually; Without reference to specific details"

As this person was asking for my opinion, I gave it---generally speaking ....lol

[Steve-o]

Originally Posted by calirattler

I'm recently finished by my graduate degree in Southern California. I was considering relocating the Chicago area. What areas would would be a decent place to live for a one bedroom apt? How much would rent be in these areas? I am a single black man in my late 20's.

What are your wants/desires in a town? How much do you want to spend on rent? Do you want to be in the far suburbs, or closer to the city?

And dont listen to lakecountylifer, there are MANY "preferred" western suburbs, too. If youre a fan of "new, new, new" stuff, the western burbs will probably suit you more.

[Calidreemer]

Don't forget Hyde Park and Oak Park. The near South and West loop are trendy areas too with easy access to night life and sporting events.

OP - I think you will have to say a little more about your life style and what kind of housing you are looking for and how much you can afford in rent. Southern Cal offers such a wide range of living experiences, let us know what you want.