u/Character_Bottle7093

I’m moving from Dallas to Chicago soon and trying to figure out the best neighborhood to live in.

I’m 21, make around 70k/year, and work near O’Hare. I don’t necessarily want to live right by the airport because I still want to experience the city, go out, meet people, hit restaurants/bars, events, car meets, etc.

I’m looking for:

• Studio or 1 bedroom
• In-unit laundry
• AC
• Parking for my modded Q50
• Prefer newer/luxury style apartments if possible
• Good balance between affordability and quality of life (Finacially)

I’d like something that’s not an awful commute to O’Hare but also not dead/suburban feeling. I still want to be “in the mix” socially.

So far I’ve looked at:

• Logan Square
• Wicker Park
• Bucktown
• South Loop

Budget is probably around $1,600–$2,000 max before parking/utilities if that’s realistic.

What neighborhoods/buildings would you recommend for someone in my situation?