Evanston, IL apartments for rent

Situated on the banks of Lake Michigan, Evanston is a thriving college town located just north of Chicago. Though considered a suburb of the Windy City, Evanston is effectively a city in its own right. It boasts a booming economy, excellent cultural amenities and a superb location. Just 15 minutes from Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, flights across the country are easily accessible.

What is the weather like in Evanston?

Summers in Evanston are characterized by hot temperatures and humid conditions. Proximity to Lake Michigan results in cooler temperatures as the winds shift off the lake. Winters are generally cold and snowy although, once again, the lake takes the edge off the chill, meaning it doesn’t get as cold in more inland places.

What are the pros of living in Evanston?

Rated the fifth-best place to live in the U.S. by a survey conducted by 24/7 Wall St., there’s plenty to love about life in Evanston. It has a small-town vibe with all the buzz of a college town, as well as the amenities of a larger city. An excellent location means that you’re never far from stunning natural beauty or the hustle and bustle of Chicago.

What are the cons of living in Evanston?

The cost of Evanston is slightly higher than the national average, so you might find that your dollar doesn’t stretch as far as it would in other places. Also, cold, snowy winters aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.

Do I need a car in Evanston?

With a walkability score of 74 out of 100, Evanston is a great city for those without a private vehicle. This is particularly true for those living within the downtown area, where you can easily find public transportation options, shops and other amenities just a short distance away.

Is Evanston expensive?

The cost of living in Evanston is around 16% higher than the national average. The largest increases are in healthcare, food and housing, with food typically costing 14% more than the national average and housing being about 12% higher.

How much is public transportation in Evanston?

There are several options for public transportation in Evanston, which is served by both PACE (the regional transportation system), and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). A number of bus routes, light-rail and rapid transit rail services are available in the city. Local fares generally cost between $2 and $4 one-way, while monthly passes range from $60 to $105, depending on the services you require.

How much are utilities in Evanston?

Monthly utilities are typically more expensive here than the national average, mostly due to colder winters. On average, you can expect to pay around $225 for the basics for a 915-square-foot apartment. This includes heating, cooling, water, electricity and garbage disposal. 

What are the major industries in Evanston?

With low unemployment rates, there are plenty of job opportunities in and around Evanston. The most common industries include healthcare and social assistance; education services; and professional, scientific and technical services.

What are the top employers in Evanston?

Some of the largest employers in Evanston include Evanston Township High School, the City of Evanston, NorthShore University Health System, Rotary International, Northwestern University, Francis Hospital and Evanston-Skokie School District 65.

Does Evanston have good schools?

Evanston Township High School serves the majority of older students in the city and is among the top-rated high schools in the state. Evanston-Skokie School District 65 also provides a number of well-regarded schools, with several elementary schools among the best in Illinois. Roycemore, which serves PK-12 students, is among the top-rated private schools in the U.S. and is also located in the city.

What are the top colleges in Evanston?

Northwestern University is the main college in Evanston and provides a wide range of graduate programs and certifications. Loyola University is another popular choice located just a few miles from Evanston.

What is there to do in Evanston?

The Northwestern University campus is a great place to catch a play or live music, with venues open to the public, as well as students. Music lovers can flock to the Space Concert Hall, which hosts a plethora of live performances and recordings throughout the year. It’s also a great place to catch the wonderful Evanston Symphony Orchestra.

What are the main annual events in Evanston?

The festivities kick off with a superb New Year’s Eve First Night celebration and continue into summer with a variety of music festivals and art fairs, including the Lakefront Arts Festival.

Where to eat out in Evanston?

Evanston has a fantastic food and drink scene, with an ever-increasing selection of top-quality independent restaurants, food stands and craft breweries. For a culinary treat, seek out Pete Miller’s, Prairie Moon, Campagnola and Tapas Barcelona. Later, check out Temperance Beer Company or Smylie Brothers to try some locally produced beers.

What outdoor activities are there to do in Evanston?

The shores of Lake Michigan offer plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including water sports, hiking or simply relaxing on one of the beaches. Several parks line the shores and offer numerous facilities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and running and cycling trails, some of which go all the way into downtown Chicago.

What are the renters’ rights in Evanston?

Renters’ rights in Evanston are fairly well-protected, with rental units governed by the city’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. The ordinance is designed to protect both landlords and tenants and ensure the fair treatment of both parties. For example, landlords are required to give at least two days’ notice prior to entering the unit, except in the event of an emergency. Also, they can only enter to provide repairs or maintenance, or to show the apartment to potential buyers, tenants and workers.