The Biggest Studio Apartments in Chicago

Are you looking for a studio apartment for rent in downtown Chicago? You’re in luck – the city is full of incredible luxury buildings, and nearly all have studio apartments. 

What is a Studio Apartment? 

A studio is an open-concept floor plan, with one living space that includes your kitchen, bedroom, and common area. Yes, I promise your bathroom does have a door! Some of the best studio apartments in Chicago I’ve seen have great walk-in closets and outdoor balconies too. 

Studio apartments are a great fit for renters who want to live in a luxury apartment building for an affordable price. Renting a studio apartment can be freeing too! Living in a studio apartment that meets your basic needs, but has luxury finishes, equals minimalist living at its finest. That being said, finding a big studio apartment in Chicago is a total bonus, and there are lots of buildings that deliver extra square footage and some other great perks . 

The Best and Biggest Studio Apartments in Chicago 

When you start your search for a studio in downtown Chicago, you’ll be overwhelmed. Comparing rent prices and square footage alone is a huge task. Then, you need to throw in all those details that may be important to you. From practicalities like parking options and an in-unit washer and dryer to the fun stuff like a fitness center or rooftop pool, there’s a lot to think about before you ever sign a lease! 

To make your search easier, enlist some help from one of Chicago’s best leasing agents. Teaming up with an agent makes finding an apartment way less stressful, and a whole lot more fun. We polled our team and asked them – what are the best and biggest studio apartments in Chicago? They delivered with their top choices: 

1. Grand Plaza Apartments Studio 

Studio Footprint: 690 Square Feet  

If you’re looking for a big studio apartment that’s located in the heart of downtown Chicago (River North to be exact), take a look at Grand Plaza. 

Clocking in at a whopping 690 square feet, this studio is huge! Take a peek at this floor plan and you’ll notice: 

• Three closets, including one walk-in closet 
• A kitchen that’s separated from the living space 
• In-unit washer and dryer 
• A huge balcony!

Our favorite part about this studio isn’t just the large footprint, it’s the balcony too! It’s not easy to find a studio apartment with a balcony in Chicago and this one spans the entire length of the living space. Natural light, fresh air, and city views…what more could you want? 

The floor plan is a standout too, with unique angles that give you some glorious separation that’s often lacking in studios. You’ll have space to store all your stuff too, with three closets, including a walk-in. Upscale finishes, like quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, come standard as well. 

The Amenities at Grand Plaza Apartments 

Even though your studio at Grand Plaza is big, you’ll want to get out and stretch your legs. This luxury building has plenty of space to explore and enjoy. 

The most popular amenity space is the outdoor rooftop deck, complete with a huge pool. Nestled among downtown’s high-rises and open sky, the deck also has a paved walking path that winds around the whole rooftop. You’re sure to spend the summer months lounging in this posh and peaceful retreat. 

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly studio apartment in River North, Grand Plaza has you covered. This building welcomes your pet and even has a huge outdoor dog park on the rooftop patio. This fenced area is a dream come true if you live downtown with your dog. 

Inside Grand Plaza, you’ll find an indoor fitness center with a basketball court. Yes, you can perfect your dunk even during Chicago’s winter months. If you want to entertain, get some work done, or hang with your neighbors, there are several lounge spaces scattered throughout the building. 

The Grand Plaza Apartments’ Neighborhood: River North

The Grand Plaza Apartments are smack in the middle of River North. I’m not kidding when I say that when you live here, you can walk to all the best things Chicago has to offer. Within a quarter-mile radius, you’ll find: 

• The Riverwalk 
• Shopping on Michigan Avenue 
• Starbucks Reserve Roastery
• The House of Blues
• Endless restaurants including Beatrix, Frontera Grill, and Quartino
• Sunnyside Dispensary 
• CTA Red Line Train 
• Jewel-Osco

You can also walk to the lake, Navy Pier, Millenium Park, and Grant Park. See? Everything you could want is within reach when you rent one of the best and biggest studios in River North.

2. Elm Street Plaza Apartments 

Studio Footprint: 507 Square Feet  

Have your eye on a Gold Coast address? Don’t we all! It’s one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Chicago, and for good reason. A central location, charming character, and the most upscale shopping and restaurants in Chicago – it’s no wonder everyone wants to live here. 

If you’re looking for an affordable studio in Gold Coast, I’ve got good news – we can make your wish come true and also score you one of the biggest studios. 

We lovingly refer to this 507-square-foot apartment as the Carrie Bradshaw studio. It’s charming, inviting, and oozing with city charm. It’s Sex and the City meets Chicago, and you’re going to love the: 

• Fully-renovated unit 
• Gigantic bay window  
• Views of tree-lined streets

There’s just something about this studio that keeps us coming back to it. Yes, it’s spacious, but it’s the total package that makes this place a real gem. 

I fully believe that you can’t underestimate the power of natural light, and it’s truly this apartment’s superpower. The bay window is huge and the perfect spot to set up a work-from-home office with a view. Our favorite units face Dearborn and Elm Streets because the views include the treetops, charming neighboring buildings, and historic architecture. 

The Amenities at Elm Street Plaza Apartments 

Elm Street Plaza is one of the best high-rise apartments in the Gold Coast neighborhood, and the building is full of awesome amenity spaces. 

Even in the most spacious apartments, it can sometimes feel like the walls are closing in if you also use it to work from home. Elm Street Plaza has a new business center that’s a great solution to feeling “homebound”. There are additional lounges with sunny spaces and cozy fireside seating too. 

If you want to host a crew of friends and can’t squeeze them into your studio, head to the resident lounge which is outfitted with a kitchen and television.  

No room to work out in your studio apartment? No worries, hop into the gym at Elm Street Plaza, complete with cardio and fitness equipment. If outdoor fitness is more your thing, the Gold Coast neighborhood is perfect for neighborhood walks, daily jogs on the nearby Lakefront Trail and beach volleyball at Oak Street Beach.

I swear the air is sweeter in the Gold Coast. You’ll see for yourself when you rent at Elm Street Plaza. Spend your days lounging poolside and your evenings getting cozy around the fire. Elm Street Plaza’s outdoor amenities are total winners. The outdoor pool is so huge you can swim laps in it. The entertaining areas include gas grills, lots of intimate seating areas, and gas firepits too. 

The Elm Street Plaza Neighborhood: Gold Coast 

The Elm Street Plaza’s location is just too good! I honestly think it’s one of the best in all of downtown. Step outside and within just a few blocks you’ve got: 

• Oak Street Beach 
• Shopping along Rush and Oak Streets 
• The best restaurants in Gold Coast, from upscale to quick service 
• CVS and Walgreens 
• Lakefront Trail 
• Washington Square Park 
• CTA Red Line Train 
• Jewel-Osco and Aldi 

Live at Elm Street Plaza and you’re also within walking distance of two of my other favorite neighborhoods in Chicago – Old Town and River North. 

3. The Apartments at 1001 S. State 

Studio Footprint: 581 Square Feet  

Chicago’s South Loop has been on our up-and-coming radar for years. The neighborhood – boarding the Loop’s southern border – has seen explosive residential growth and is home to some of Chicago’s newest luxury apartments.

There are lots of great studio apartments in South Loop, but units at 1001 S. State win our award for best studio apartment layout in Chicago. At 581 square feet, this studio is roomy, and the floorplan is genius. See that niche that’s carved out for your bed? It creates a separation between your living and sleeping space that’s just so smart! Also, take note of: 

• Great kitchen space with bonus peninsula countertop 
• Huge bathroom with tub
• In-unit washer and dryer 
• Ample closet space 
• Floor-to-ceiling windows 

If you’re looking for a big studio apartment in South Loop, this one will definitely be on our tour list. It’s an especially perfect pick if you’re finding that a one-bedroom is out of your budget. 

This studio is also a great choice if you work from home. Admittedly, working in a studio apartment can sometimes feel cramped, but this floor plan actually has room for a proper desk. And that kitchen space – it’s beautiful! Gleaming white quartz countertops, glass tile, and stainless steel Whirlpool appliances – it’s the best studio apartment in the South Loop. 

The Amenities at 1001 S. State Apartments 

The 1001 S. State building is a stunner and bursting with so many amenities, you’ve honestly got to see them for yourself. In the meantime, let’s cover some of the highlights…

Are you renting your studio apartment with a furry roommate? 1001 S. State is dog-friendly and the amenities cater to dog owners. There’s a dog run and pet grooming on-site, both of which make living downtown with your dog so much easier. 

1001 S. State has an awesome fitness center too. It’s bright, sunny, and outfitted with free weights, machines, and treadmills. There’s also a modern yoga studio with TRX equipment and a huge screen that lets you stream workout sessions. 

Let’s take a stroll outside…you’re going to love the outdoor amenity spaces at 1001 S. State. The first thing you’ll notice is that the views are unreal – maybe the best in the city. The sundeck has resort vibes with cedar flooring and pergolas, cabanas, grills, lounge chairs, and yes – a pool. The entire area is beautifully landscaped with birch trees and blossoming perennials. And, there’s a hot tub – which is such a luxury on chilly nights! If you’re looking for a quiet space, stroll around to the east-facing deck and curl up in a chair. Gaze out on the spectacular views of Lake Michigan and feel the lake breeze while you relax. 

Inside 1001 S. State, there are great spots to hang out and entertain your friends. Gather in the media room to host a watch party or plan a fun night in the game room. If you’ve gotta get some work gone, hop into the coworking space – there’s even a conference room where you can gather your team together. Need some help getting those creative juices flowing? 1001 S. State has a dedicated maker space, outfitted with a milling machine and 3D printer.

1001 S. State’s Neighborhood: South Loop 

1001 S. State is located right in the middle of the South Loop. Move in, and you’ll be able to walk to: 

• Grant Park 
• Trader Joe’s
• Dearborn Park 
• Walgreens 
• Roosevelt Park 
• CTA Red, Green and Orange Line Train 
• Lakefront Trail 
• Tons of restaurants including super-close Lowcountry, Eleven City Diner and Chicago Curry House 

When you settle on this South Loop studio, big spaces aren’t all you’ll get. Downtown conveniences and accessibility to public transit are huge bonuses. 

4. Eight O Five 

Studio Footprint: 538 Square-Feet  

Okay, okay, 538 square feet might not seem like a huge studio apartment, but we actually think this is the best studio in River North, and maybe even in all of downtown Chicago. 

This 538-square-foot studio is anything but average. My favorite things about this Printer’s Row studio apartment are: 

• The modern galley kitchen  
• Giant floor-to-ceiling windows 
• Washer and dryer in the entryway 
• Massive balcony 
• Nicely sized closets 

For renters who don’t love having their kitchen space in their living space, this floorplan is ideal. The galley kitchen is neatly tucked away. If you’d like to ignore your dirty dishes, you can! Out of sight, out of mind, right? 

And yes, this is one of the studios in Chicago with a balcony and not just a small one! It’s huge, serves up crazy-cool views, and lets light flood your space. Did I mention this is one of the more affordable studio apartments in downtown Chicago? Renters rave about it being a great value, especially given the central location. 

The Amenities at Eight O Five Apartments  

Rent a studio at Eight O Five, and you get so much more than those 538 square feet. This luxury apartment in River North has extra room for you to get out and stretch out. 

This is a great studio to move to if you work downtown, but even better if you work from home, thanks to Eight O Five’s coworking areas. Need some peace and quiet, but want to get out of your apartment? The work pods are a perfect spot to focus and knock out some projects or take important calls. Additional co-working spaces in the building include the Club 805 Cafe and tech lounge. Or, head out to the rooftop lounge and score a tan while you work.

Speaking of the sundeck, it might be the best in River North. It even rivals those fancy hotel rooftop bars in the neighborhood, but it only belongs to you and your neighbors! The views of the downtown skyline and peeks of the lake are out of this world. Make a pitcher of margaritas, gather around a table, and enjoy your urban oasis. Did I mention the pool? Yes, there’s an outdoor pool with cabanas – the icing on the cake! 

Eight O Five also has a neat bonus outdoor space that’s uniquely theirs. There’s an eco-friendly green roof that feels like a breath of fresh air in the middle of downtown. And yes – these are dog-friendly studios in River North. When nature calls, take your dog to the 4th-floor bark park and dog run. 

The Eight O Five Apartments Neighborhood: River North

Eight O Five apartments are located on the corner of Chicago and LaSalle, right on the border of River North and the Gold Coast. It’s a prime downtown location and residents rave about the neighborhood above all else. 

Step outside the doors of Eight O Five and take a quick stroll to: 

• Target 
• Michigan Avenue and Gold Coast shopping
• Starbucks 
• Whole Foods 
• Washington Square Park 
• Every cuisine under the sun from restaurants like Seoul Taco, Prosecco, Moti, Chalet, Tzuco
• CTA Red Line Train 

This is also a great studio to rent if you work or go to school in Streeterville. Walk just a few blocks east and you’re at the steps of Loyola University and Northwestern Memorial Hospital. 

5. Imprint 

Studio Footprint: 648 Square Feet  

Have you heard of Printer’s Row? It’s a pocket neighborhood in the South Loop, and a great place to call home! Just a hair south of the Loop, there are some really awesome luxury apartments in the neighborhood. But, only one landed on our list for having the best big studio apartment in Printer’s Row.  

This 648-square-foot studio at Imprint apartments is our pick! And, it wasn’t easy to narrow it down, because Imprint has several studio floor plans to choose from. Each is new, modern, and ready to welcome you home with: 

• Two closets, including a huge walk-in
• Full-size washer and dryer in entryway 
• Walk-in shower 
• Huge floor-to-ceiling windows 

If you want to tour the best new studio apartments in Chicago, Imprint will be at the top of our tour list.

The finishes in this studio are high-end and thoughtful. The design aesthetic is warehouse chic, with exposed concrete ceilings mixed with all-white European-style kitchens. But the best part is the huge bank of floor-to-ceiling windows. With awesome urban views that spread out for miles, you’ll never feel boxed in when you rent this Printer’s Row studio. 

The Amenities at Imprint Apartments 

Imprint’s amenities are everything you need to live the luxury life in downtown Chicago. Geared toward professionals with busy lives, you’ll love each space and service. 

If cleaning and laundry aren’t your thing, you’ll love the on-site services! Tide Spin dry cleaning and laundry lockers will keep your whites white and Spruce housekeeping is available if your studio needs a good cleaning. 

Indoors, my favorite spot at Imprint is the resident lounge and coworking space. The minimalist styling is a breath of fresh air, creating a space that’s bright, modern, and inviting. Pull up a chair at a table, gather around the fireplace, or curl up in one of the velvet lounge chairs. 

Imprint does have a gym, outfitted with everything you need to stay in tip-top shape, including Peloton bikes. For a unique fitness experience, head outside to the 5th-floor deck. You’ll find a unique yoga platform with a view of Lake Michigan. For the non-yogis out there, I’m guessing it’s also used as a wine-drinking platform! 

Speaking of the outdoor deck – it’s an entertainer’s dream! It’s all set up for you and your crew to enjoy some grub on the grill and conversation around the fire pit. There’s table seating and loungy spots and lots of great landscaping and shady areas too. If you want a more intimate space, head up to the 30th-floor terrace and take in the incredible view of the lake. Of course, if you’re a dog owner, your most used outdoor space will probably be the 5th-floor dog run. I love that it’s covered, keeping you and your doggie warm and dry year-round. 

Imprint’s Neighborhood: Printer’s Row in South Loop 

If you’re looking for an apartment near the Loop, but not in the Loop, Printer’s Row is a great spot to live. Rent a studio at Imprint and you’re ultra-close to: 

• Grant Park 
• Totto’s Market 
• Downtown’s Financial District 
• Dunkin’, Starbucks, and Dollop Coffee
• CVS
• Printer’s Row restaurants like First Draft, Paisans Pizza, and Sofi. 
• CTA Red Line Train 
• Printer’s Row Farmer’s Market

Ready to Find a Big Studio Apartment in Chicago?  

Can you see yourself living in one of these awesome studio apartments? This is just the tip of the iceberg; we have so many other big studios we’d love to share with you. From West Loop to Lincoln Park and beyond – give team HotSpot a call and let us help you find your new studio apartment in Chicago.