Types of Multifamily Apartments in Chicago

September 9, 2023

Navigating the vibrant and diverse renting landscape of Chicago can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to multifamily apartments. The Windy City offers a variety of living options, each with its own unique charm and character. Whether you're a newcomer eager to explore the city's neighborhoods or a long-time resident considering a change of scenery, understanding the city’s apartment landscape is key if you want to avoid surprises during the renting process. From historic brownstones on tree-lined streets to sleek high-rises with skyline views, here’s a guide to various multifamily living options so you can find the perfect place to call home.

5 Different Types of Chicago Apartments

High-Rises

A rooftop swimming pool overlooking a city skyline with tall buildings under a blue, partly cloudy sky.

Rooftop at State & Chestnut, where you can enjoy both lake and city views

High-rise apartments in Chicago are a testament to the city's iconic skyline. These towering skyscrapers have more than seven stories and offer residents breathtaking views of the cityscape or Lake Michigan and sometimes even both. High-rise living gives you unparalleled access to the energy of downtown Chicago, and many come equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, such as fitness centers, rooftop decks, and concierge services. You’ll find them the most concentrated the closer you get to downtown, but they can be found scattered around a variety ofChicago neighborhoods. For those looking for amazing views, a high-rise might be your best bet. Check out some of our favorites below:

State & Chestnut - Gold Coast

A modern living room with a white sofa, patterned armchair, coffee table, and area rug, open to a view of city buildings.

24 S Morgan - West Loop

Modern apartment living area with light wood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, cityscape view, and a kitchen island.

The Belmont by Reside -Lakeview

A modern living room with a grey sofa, teal armchair, round coffee table, houseplant, and white Buddha statue on a table.

Reside on Green Street - River West

A modern living room with a yellow sofa, a textured wooden console, a circular ottoman, and a tall gold lamp by a window.

Two-, Three-, and Four-Flats

A brick apartment building with limestone accents, surrounded by greenery and a front walkway leading to the entrance.

The charming exterior of 429 W Melrose Street, located in Lakeview

Two-, three-, and four-flats, often referred to as "walk-ups" or "low-rises," are common housing options all throughout Chicago's residential neighborhoods. With their distinctive greystone and brick exteriors, these charming apartment buildings are emblematic of the city's historic architecture. Each unit typically occupies one floor, with two-flats featuring two units, three-flats with three, and four-flats with, unsurprisingly, four separate apartments. These types of buildings aren’t far from ordinary; they make up about 26% of Chicago’s total housing stock. Residents may share common entrances and occasionally outdoor spaces like backyards or porches, so they’re ideal for those who appreciate a more traditional, close-knit living experience and often offer the added benefit of lower rent prices compared to high-rises.

Lofts

A modern kitchen in an industrial-style loft featuring exposed brick walls, wooden ceiling beams, and a wood-paneled island.

Industrial-style kitchen at The Lofts at Gin Alley in Fulton Market

These living spaces, characterized by their open layouts, high ceilings, large windows, and industrial-style architecture, are unique places to live. Originally converted from former warehouses, factories, and commercial spaces, loft apartments have evolved into a chic housing option, particularly popular in Chicago among artists, creatives, and young professionals. Their exposed brick walls, ductwork, and industrial accents give loft apartments a distinct urban character that resonates with those seeking an authentic Chicago experience. Whether you're drawn to the lofts in the West Loop or other areas of the city, lofts are great way to call Chicago home.

Courtyard-Style Apartments

A brick apartment complex with a central courtyard, stone steps, metal fencing, and decorative planters.

The beautiful courtyard of Buena Park’s Residence on Irving Park

Nestled within residential neighborhoods, courtyard-style apartments form a U-shaped or rectangular layout with a charming courtyard at the center. This design is a Chicago classic, as they create a peaceful outdoor space that shields residents from the hustle and bustle of the city. Courtyard apartment buildings are typically two or three stories tall and feature units with a variety of layouts. To make them even better, they often exude a vintage charm, with brickwork, wrought-iron gates, and other decorative details reminiscent of an earlier time. Courtyard-style apartments offer a unique blend of peace and city living, making them a cherished housing option throughout the city’s neighborhoods.

Brownstones

A modern brick apartment building in a city features an outdoor terrace with seating and lawn areas on the lower roof.

Gild, a brownstone-inspired apartment community in the Gold Coast

Chicago brownstones add touches of elegance and historic charm throughout the city. These iconic residential buildings are known for their distinctive brownish-red brick and classic detailing, and are typically three or four-story high. Inside, you'll usually find high ceilings, intricate moldings, and beautiful hardwood floors. These homes typically have multiple units, making them a popular choice for families, professionals, and urban dwellers. Brownstones also offer a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern amenities, as they’re often renovated with chic kitchens and bathrooms. In fact, their architectural style was the inspiration for Gild, the Gold Coast’s shining apartment community that mimics the characteristics of the classic brownstone build with a modern twist.

While there are a variety of other living styles throughout the city, these five are options that you’ll likely come across during your apartment search. If you’re already eager to find your next home, explore some of Reside’s communities to get started.

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