I’ve covered Chicago housing long enough to know this: the rent price is just the opening act. The real headliner is The Hidden Cost of Moving Into an Apartment — and it hits your bank account fast.
Every year, renters across neighborhoods from Lakeview to Logan Square get blindsided by expenses they never saw coming. If you’re relocating, upgrading, or signing your first lease, here’s what you need to know before the moving truck even starts.
Why Rent Isn’t the Real Number
When a listing says $2,100 per month, that’s rarely your upfront cost. In Chicago, moving into an apartment often requires multiple payments before you even get the keys.
Let’s break it down.
Upfront Costs Before You Move In
1. Application Fees
Most Chicago landlords charge:
- $50–$100 per applicant
- Additional background or credit check fees
In competitive areas like West Loop or River North, some buildings also require:
- Income verification
- Employment letters
- Co-signer documentation
Two roommates? That’s easily $150–$200 before approval.
2. Move-In Fees vs. Security Deposits
Chicago landlords increasingly use move-in fees instead of traditional deposits.
Typical ranges:
- Move-in fee: $300–$900
- Security deposit: One month’s rent
Under Chicago’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO), security deposits come with strict rules. But move-in fees? Not refundable.
That $750 “administrative fee” in Wicker Park? You won’t see that money again.
3. First Month’s Rent — And Sometimes More
Many buildings require:
- First month’s rent upfront
- Occasionally last month’s rent
If you’re renting a $2,200 one-bedroom in Lincoln Park, you might need:
- $2,200 (first month)
- $750 (move-in fee)
- $75 (application)
That’s $3,025 before furniture.
And we haven’t even turned on the lights yet.
Utility Setup Costs in Chicago
Electricity
Chicago’s primary provider is Commonwealth Edison.
New accounts often require:
- $50–$200 deposit (depending on credit)
- Activation fees
Average monthly electricity in a one-bedroom:
- $60–$120
- Higher in summer with AC
Gas
Most apartments use Peoples Gas.
Costs include:
- Possible deposit
- Winter heating bills that can exceed $150–$250 monthly in older buildings
January in Chicago doesn’t play around.
Internet Setup
Major providers include:
- Xfinity
- AT&T
Expect:
- $50–$100 installation fees
- Router rental ($10–$15 per month)
- Promotional rates that jump after 12 months
Moving Day Costs That Add Up
Hiring Movers
Chicago moving companies typically charge:
- $100–$150 per hour per mover
- 2 movers minimum
- 2–4 hour minimum
A basic local move can cost:
- $600–$1,200
High-rise buildings may also charge:
- Elevator reservation fees ($100–$500)
- Certificate of insurance requirements
DIY Truck Rental
Companies like U-Haul advertise low daily rates, but add:
- Mileage charges
- Fuel
- Insurance
- Equipment rental
Realistic total: $150–$400.
Furnishing and Household Essentials
You don’t notice what you’re missing until you move.
Hidden expenses include:
- Shower curtain and liner
- Trash cans
- Cleaning supplies
- Light bulbs
- Window coverings
- Basic kitchenware
Even modest furnishing runs:
- $800–$2,500 depending on quality
Add more if you’re upgrading or moving from a smaller space.
Parking and Building Fees
Many Chicago buildings charge:
- Garage parking: $150–$350 monthly
- Move-out deposits
- Key fob fees ($50–$100 each)
- HOA processing fees in condo buildings
Living near downtown? Expect higher ranges.
Real-World Chicago Example
Let’s say you’re moving into a $2,000 apartment in South Loop.
Here’s a realistic breakdown:
- First month rent: $2,000
- Move-in fee: $600
- Application: $75
- Electric deposit: $100
- Gas deposit: $75
- Internet install: $75
- Movers: $800
Total upfront: $3,725
That’s nearly double the advertised rent.
This is The Hidden Cost of Moving Into an Apartment that rarely makes the listing.
How to Reduce Move-In Expenses
1. Ask Direct Questions
Before applying, ask:
- Are there admin fees?
- Elevator fees?
- Mandatory renters insurance?
- Utility averages?
Transparency saves money.
2. Negotiate When Possible
In slower rental seasons (November–February), landlords may:
- Waive move-in fees
- Offer rent credits
- Reduce deposits
Timing matters in Chicago’s market.
3. Budget 1.5x to 2x Rent Upfront
Smart renters assume:
- Total move-in cost = 150–200% of monthly rent
If rent is $1,800, plan for $2,700–$3,600.
Why Buyers and Relocators Should Care
Even if you plan to buy, short-term renting carries these costs.
Relocating from out of state?
Add:
- Travel costs
- Temporary lodging
- Storage fees
The Hidden Cost of Moving Into an Apartment is often higher for newcomers unfamiliar with Chicago’s systems.
Summary: Know the Real Number Before You Sign
Rent is just the starting line.
Between deposits, fees, utilities, movers, and setup expenses, Chicago renters can easily spend thousands before unpacking.
Understanding The Hidden Cost of Moving Into an Apartment protects your savings and prevents stress.
Do the math first. Ask the questions early. Budget realistically.
Because in Chicago real estate, the fine print matters.
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