Culturally diverse, incredibly artsy, and with some of Chicago’s best food, the Pilsen neighborhood is an if-you-know-you-know gem. Pilsen is located on Chicago’s Lower West Side, just 20 minutes from the Loop, and houses everything from eclectic local businesses to stunning museums showcasing Latin American art. Despite all there is to do in the neighborhood, it long maintained its status as one of Chicago’s best-kept secrets.
But secrets can only be kept for so long, and things are heating up fast in Pilsen as more and more new Chicago residents are drawn to this vibrant neighborhood. As the neighborhood’s star rises, so do rents, but we’ve found a few places for those looking to enjoy all that the neighborhood has to offer without breaking the bank. Here’s what you can rent in Pilsen for under $1,000/month.
1338 West 18th Place
At $1,000/month, this 800 sq ft one-bedroom makes up in shared outdoor space what it lacks in natural light. While two small windows let in slivers of sun, this “bright” listing’s small windows make it feel a bit cramped. Central AC and a decent-sized outdoor space are definite draws, as is the first-floor one-bedroom’s proximity to some Pilsen hotspots, like Shady Rest Vintage and Vinyl and The Spoke and Bird Bakehouse.
2127 West 21st Place
One of the more economical listings in Pilsen, this quirky converted third-floor unit might require some creative interior decoration. $695/month gets renters a small kitchenette and a private bedroom, but steeply-sloping ceilings might have you crouching down to brush your teeth in the morning. With that said, this spot has tons of potential and we could see it being a cozy attic-nook for those willing to put the time into sprucing up the space.
1800 South Blue Island Avenue
Listed as a potential “art studio or office space,” this 400 sq ft studio apartment is about as minimal as apartments come. $895/month, in addition to $370 for move-in and application fees, the small studio is one of the higher-priced units on our list. One fairly large street-facing window seems to be the only source of natural light, but with no central air that window will likely have to house an AC unit for a portion of the year. While a washer and dryer are in-unit, the bathroom and kitchen are not, instead being shared by the floor.
Common Sable
Our last listing in Pilsen for under $1,000/month is far and away the best deal. Starting at $980/month, Common Sable comes with a private room in a fully-furnished coliving suite, with amenities like WiFi, utilities, and professional cleanings for no added cost. A furnished rooftop deck provides panoramic views of the neighborhood, and when you want to explore Pilsen by ground you’re within walking distance of several parks, vibrant bars, and the National Museum of Mexican Art. The Damen stop on Chicago’s Pink Line is just around the corner, with the Loop only a 20 minute ride away.
Pilsen, perfected
With rents in Pilsen on the rise, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best deal with Common. Too many included amenities to count and an emphasis on community make Common feel less like an apartment complex and more like an extended family, and proximity to some of Pilsen’s top attractions means Common members get to see Chicago in a way few will.
Ready to make Pilsen your vibrant new home? Explore your affordable rental options now, including shared apartments in Chicago, and embrace the unique charm of Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood! Plus, discover Common’s other services to simplify your city living experience. Explore more with Common!
