We're picking on renter-friendly Logan Square today, seeing what's decent and available (at a moderate price point) to outsiders who'd like to crash the party. Jokingly characterized as a 'hood of Hipsters and Mexicans, there's way more diversity than that. These days, the culinary scene, art scene, and great housing stock are drawing people to the lush nabe. Long term affordability is in question, so don't wait another minute to start shopping!
What/Where: 2/2 w/ big balcony at 2834 N Albany Ave [Zillow]
Rent: $1,550
The Skinny: A newly gut-renovated number, this unit has the exposed brick and hardwoods we've all come to expect of a slick reno. Large bedrooms, lots of storage, and a big balcony with a big view. Tradeoff: no deposit, but a $550 move-in fee instead.
What/Where: 2-bed + den in a classic Greystone at 2724 N Troy St [Zillow]
Rent: $1,450
The Skinny: Really, really big at 2,200 sf, throw in a roomy deck and shared back yard, and it's downright stupid big for the price. Nice floors, adequate bathroom, large kitchen. Nothing at all to ridicule. One block from blue line. Rent includes heat and garage. The catch: First lease is only 5/mos with option to renew.
What/Where: 2-bed + den at 2600 N Whipple St. [Zillow]
Rent: $1,595
The Skinny: 1,300 sf of living space plus an enclosed porch and private yard. Comes with nice things like central air, built-in book shelving, and stone kitchen floors. But watch out for those low-hanging lamps.
What/Where: one-bed duplex in a converted loft building at 1740 N Maplewood Ave [Zillow]
Rent: $1,500
The Skinny: At the West Bucktown/Logan line, this two-story condo rental has a hanging deck and a shared rooftop. And something Curbed firmly believes should be mandatory: a granite vanity w/ his & her sinks. Special perk: free DirectTV. The catch? Not available until April.