2 Bedroom Apartments for Rent in Chicago

With over 1 million rentable apartments in Chicago, finding the perfect two-bedroom might feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. To make things easier (and your search more fruitful), Domu has put together this comprehensive guide full of expert tips on the hottest neighborhoods that fit your vibe and budget, the benefits of choosing a two-bedroom, the best time to search, and even the various apartment styles that make Chicago so cool.

Whether you're a young professional looking for a swanky pad to impress your friends, a growing family in need of some extra elbow room, or just someone who's tired of living in a shoebox, a two-bedroom apartment in Chicago might be just what the doctor ordered. These versatile spaces offer the perfect balance of affordability, flexibility, and style, so you can stretch out and live your best life. By the time you're done reading, you'll be well-equipped to navigate Chicago's rental market and find the perfect place to call home.

With Domu as your trusty sidekick, we’re always ready to share the inside scoop on the best rentals in town. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you to your perfect Chicago home.

Why Choose a Two-Bedroom Apartment?

Living in a two-bedroom apartment is like having your cake and eating it too. With the rise of remote work and the need for more personal space, upgrading to a two-bedroom is the ultimate power move. A two-bedroom apartment offers a level of flexibility and comfort that's hard to find in smaller spaces. The extra room can serve as a dedicated home office, providing a quiet and productive space to crush your work goals. It's also perfect for hosting out-of-town guests (of which you will have many, thanks to Chicago’s awesomeness), giving them a comfortable place to stay without disrupting your daily routine.

For those with pets, a two-bedroom apartment means more space for them to play and relax. No more cramming litterboxes in tight corners or sacrificing a reading chair for a cat tree! And if you're someone who loves to spread out and create different living zones, a two-bedroom is like a blank canvas waiting for your creative touch. Want a cozy reading nook? Done. How about a home fitness space to perfect your downward dog? You got it.

While the cost of a two-bedroom apartment may be higher than a one-bedroom or studio, the added flexibility often makes it a worthwhile investment. And if your budget feels a bit stretched thin, you can always find a roommate or sublet the extra room for some extra cash (and maybe find a new friend!) With more square footage and the potential for multiple uses, a two-bedroom apartment in Chicago can really do wonders for your quality of life.

Chicago Neighborhoods with the Most Two-Bedroom Apartments

Two-bedroom apartments are sprinkled throughout Chicago like hot dog stands, but the availability and characteristics vary depending on which part of town you are scoping out. In downtown areas like Streeterville, West Loop, Lakeshore East, South Loop, River North, and Gold Coast, two-bedrooms are generally smaller in size compared to those in outlying neighborhoods. But what they lack in square footage, they make up for in amenities, location, and beautiful skyline views.

If you're looking for a little more breathing room and a neighborhood with some character, it's time to venture beyond the city center. Neighborhoods like East Village, Roscoe Village, Wicker Park, Edgewater, Bronzeville, Ravenswood, Bucktown, Logan Square, and Lincoln Square offer larger two-bedrooms for less than their downtown counterparts. Not only will you find more spacious two-bedroom apartments, but you'll also get to experience that authentic Chicago charm without the downtown price tag. These areas also have amazing access to public transportation, locally-owned shops, and restaurants that will make your taste buds sing.

If you're new to the city and feeling a little overwhelmed by all the options, don't stress! Check out our handy Guide for Moving to Chicago. It's like having a personal tour guide in your pocket, minus the cheesy jokes and fanny pack.

When to Find Two-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago

Okay, so you're ready to start your two-bedroom apartment hunt, but when's the best time to look? Most apartments in Chicago become available between April and September, which is known as the peak rental season. During this time, leases are ending left and right, and renters are on the move like a herd of wild gazelles. It's a great time to find your dream place, but be prepared for a bit of competition.

Now, if your heart is set on a downtown neighborhood, here’s the scoop. The winter months are going to be your secret weapon. While the rental market tends to slow down in January, landlords in the city center are more likely to have available units (and sometimes at a discounted price to get them filled). On the flip side, landlords in the outer neighborhoods tend to focus on leasing during the peak season, so you might have to get a little creative with your search in the winter.

No matter when you decide to begin your two-bedroom apartment search, the key is to start early and come prepared. Make sure you have all your ducks in a row with the necessary paperwork so when you find "the one," you can jump on it immediately. Check out our article on Understanding the Apartment Application Process to stay one step ahead.

Affordable Two-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago Neighborhoods

Alright, money-savvy apartment hunters, listen up! If you're on the hunt for a cheap two-bedroom apartment in Chicago, these are the neighborhoods that'll put a smile on your face.

• Let’s start with Bronzeville (2-bedroom apartments average between $1800-$2500), a neighborhood that's filled with history and African-American heritage. The architecture alone will make your jaw drop, and the price tag will make your wallet do a happy dance.
• If you're looking for a neighborhood that has more personality than a reality TV show, check out Uptown (2-bedroom apartments average between $1900-$3500). This place is like a buffet of vintage and modern apartments, and it's so close to the lakefront you might as well consider it your front yard.
• For all you trendy folks out there, Avondale (2-bedroom apartments average between $1800-$2500) is hip and happening. With its growing arts scene and more restaurants and bars than you can shake a martini at, you'll never run out of things to do (or eat).
• For those whose two-bedroom dreams involve a kids room, look no further than Irving Park ($1700-$2300). Tree-lined streets, cozy cafes, and easy access to public transportation put this place on many parents’ wish list.
• Ravenswood (2-bedroom apartments average between $1900-$2600) put the focus on community, crafts, and charming newcomers. This neighborhood is known for its historic homes, thriving small businesses, art galleries, and weekly farmers markets, so moving here means you can support local and live in style.
• Pilsen (2-bedroom apartments average between $1700-$2300) is like a work of art come to life. This colorful, art-centric community has a strong Latino influence and more murals than you can count. Mix that up with some authentic cuisine and welcoming neighbors, and you have a neighborhood that’s as fun as it is friendly.
• Edgewater (2-bedroom apartments average between $2000-$2600) apartments offer the perfect mix of classic and modern, with brag-worthy views of Lake Michigan that'll make you feel like you're on a permanent vacation. Walking around the neighborhood, you’ll wander past vintage stores, quirky shops, and cozy family-run restaurants.
• Humboldt Park (2-bedroom apartments average between $1800-$2500) is a neighborhood that's as diverse as it is beautiful. With a strong Puerto Rican presence, a gorgeous park, and enough local shops and eateries that you’ll never get bored, this place is a hidden gem.
• As Chicago's northernmost neighborhood, Rogers Park (2-bedroom apartments average between $1700-$2300) is known for its beaches, global cuisine, and laid-back vibes. It’s not uncommon to get on a first-name basis with your neighbors, which is great if you love learning new languages (there are over 60 languages spoken in this diverse neighborhood!)
• Bridgeport (2-bedroom apartments average between $1600-$2200) is a neighborhood that's as historic as it is affordable. With a tight-knit community feel and an emerging arts and food scene, this place is perfect for those who want to live like a local Chicagoan.
• We round out this list with Logan Square (2-bedroom apartments average between $1900-$3000), a foodie-friendly neighborhood in the Northwest side of Chicago. With a thriving nightlife, indie boutiques, and a weekly farmers market, this place is like a playground for adults.

Luxury Two-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago Neighborhoods

And now, for those looking to add some opulence to their Chicago experience, we have our favorite neighborhoods for luxury living. If you're looking to live like royalty in a two-bedroom apartment, Chicago has some neighborhoods that'll make you feel like you've hit the jackpot:

• Starting things off on the right foot, we have the West Loop (2-bedroom apartments average between $3500-$5000), a trendy, former industrial area that's been transformed into a foodie paradise. With high-end restaurants tucked between sleek, modern apartments, this neighborhood is a treat for your taste buds with excellent public transit options.
• River North (2-bedroom apartments average between $3700-$6200) is like the artsy friend who always knows the best galleries and restaurants. This bustling neighborhood is known for its gallery district, upscale dining, and luxurious high-rise living that'll make you feel like you're on top of the world (literally).
• If you love industrial vibes, the Fulton Market (2-bedroom apartments average between $3500-$6100) rental scene includes plenty of warehouses that have been converted to luxury apartments, with spacious and aesthetically elevated two-bedrooms. With a mix of industrial charm and modern luxury, this neighborhood is also home to some of the city's hottest restaurants and bars.
• Streeterville (2-bedroom apartments average between $3600-$4800) is like living in a postcard, straight-up. This lakefront neighborhood has gorgeous views, high-end shopping, and easy access to Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile, so you can live like a tourist every day and then retreat back to your beautiful two-bedroom apartment.
• We would be remiss to leave out the secret garden in the heart of downtown, Lakeshore East (2-bedroom apartments average between $4000-$5800). This tranquil, park-centric community provides luxurious high-rise living and breathtaking city and lake views that'll make you never want to leave home.
• South Loop (2-bedroom apartments average between $2800-$3900) is like a mix of old and new, with historic buildings and modern high-rises that'll make you feel like you're living in a movie set. It’s basically next door to Grant Park and the Museum Campus, so you can spend your weekends in nature and among world-class art, then head home to catch picture-perfect sunset views.
• The Gold Coast (2-bedroom apartments average between $3000-$5400), aptly named, will make you feel like you're living in a real-life version of The Great Gatsby. This upscale, historic neighborhood is known for its towering architecture, high-end boutiques, Michelin-rated restaurants, and proximity to the lakefront. If you want to feel like a million bucks both inside and out of your two-bedroom apartment, this is the place for you.
• Last but not least, we've got Old Town (2-bedroom apartments average between $3000-$4400), a neighborhood that's as charming as it is funny. With a mix of vintage and modern apartments, a famous comedy scene, local boutiques, and an annual art fair, this place is a favorite amongst locals.

Different Styles of Two-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago

Chicago offers a diverse array of two-bedroom apartment styles to suit every taste and preference:

• Vintage Apartments: Step back in time with these lovely, historic buildings that show off their unique character in every nook and cranny. With swoon-worthy details like crown molding, hardwood floors, and fireplaces, you'll feel like you're living in a romance novel come to life.
• Loft Apartments: Channel your inner artist in these open, airy spaces that are a blank canvas waiting for your creative touch. With industrial elements like exposed brick, high ceilings, and oversized windows, you’ll be the first choice within your friend group for hosting dinner parties.
• Luxury Apartments: Live like royalty in these high-end, modern apartments that come with all the bells and whistles. From top-of-the-line finishes to premium appliances and upscale amenities, no detail will go unnoticed.
• Townhouse rentals: Spread out and enjoy a little more privacy in these multi-level homes that come with private entrances, outdoor spaces, and attached garages.
• Houses for Rent: Live like a king or queen in these stand-alone residences that usually come with a yard and room to roam. Great if you have kids, want kids, or want to start treating your pets like kids.
• High-Rise Apartments: Reach for the sky in these sleek, modern buildings. Stunning views, state-of-the-art amenities, and a central location puts you in the heart of the action while living amongst the clouds. Renting a two-bedroom high rise apartment might be costly, but it will be worth it.
• Coach Houses for Rent: Cozy up in a detached, smaller-scale home that is located behind a main residence. It's a step between an apartment and a full-blown house, perfect for when you need more space but less cleaning responsibility.
• Short-Term Apartments: Try things out before you settle down by signing a short-term lease. With these (typically) fully furnished apartments, you can live like a local without the long-term commitment. With lease terms often ranging from one to six months, you can explore different neighborhoods and styles until you find your perfect match.

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

When it comes to renting a two-bedroom apartment in Chicago, there's more to tally up than just the monthly rent. Additional factors to consider are application fees, move-in fees, security deposits, utilities, parking, renters insurance, and pet fees. But don’t get overwhelmed! To help simplify things, we put together a comprehensive article to help break down the expected costs to rent an apartment in Chicago.

A good way to determine what you can afford is by utilizing the rent-to-income ratio. This is considered the golden rule of apartment budgeting. Ideally, you want to keep your monthly rent under 30% of your gross income, or 3:1. But, with the rising cost of rent in Chicago, a 4:1 ratio might be more realistic. Run the numbers through Domu's Rent Calculator and see what works for you. This tool will help narrow down your search results and dial in exactly what your annual income can afford.

Another important number to know before you start applying for two-bedroom apartments in Chicago is your credit score. Landlords use this as a way to determine your financial responsibility, and you will typically need a score of 650+ (higher if you are looking for a luxury rental) to snag that apartment. If your credit score is looking a little rough around the edges, it might be time to give it some TLC before you start apartment hunting. Check out our Credit Score page for some expert tips on how to improve your number.

Comparing the Cost of Two-Bedroom and One-Bedroom Apartments in Chicago

So, you're thinking about upgrading from a one-bedroom to a two-bedroom apartment? On average, you can expect to pay an extra $500 to $1,000 per month for that second bedroom. But if you're dreaming of a life of luxury, where your two-bedroom apartment is in a high-rise located in an upscale downtown neighborhood, the price difference can range from $1,000 to $2,000 or more per month.

Now, before you start hyperventilating into a paper bag, remember that some costs will stay the same regardless of how many bedrooms you have, like move-in fees and application fees. Utilities might go up a bit in a larger space, but the difference is typically minimal.

At the end of the day, the decision to rent a two-bedroom apartment in Chicago is a personal one. It depends on your needs, your lifestyle, and your budget. Take a good, hard look at all the costs and then start exploring all the amazing two-bedroom options Chicago has to offer. With a little bit of research and a lot of determination, you'll find the perfect place to call home in no time.

And remember, if you ever feel lost or overwhelmed, just reach out to your trusty sidekick, Domu, and let us guide you through the wild and wonderful world of Chicago apartment hunting. We've got your back (and your budget) covered.