The Renter’s Ultimate Guide to Chicago Apartments with EV Charging
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Welcome to the future of apartment living in Chicago, where electric vehicles (EVs) aren’t just a trend—they’re the new normal. With their eco-friendly appeal, cost-saving advantages, and sleek designs, EVs are becoming a staple on our roads. In fact, EV registrations in the U.S. surged by 45.5% year-over-year in 2023, and Illinois alone boasts over 99,000 registered EVs as of September 2024.
But here’s the catch: owning an EV only works if you can keep it charged. That’s where apartment buildings with EV charging stations come in. As renters increasingly make the switch to electric, apartments in Chicago are racing to install chargers—not just to attract tenants but to future-proof their buildings for the years ahead.
Let’s dive into why EV charging is quickly becoming a must-have apartment amenity, explore the benefits for renters, and highlight the best Chicago apartments with EV charging.
Chicago’s EV Landscape: The Shift Into High Gear
It’s official: Chicago is plugging into the electric vehicle movement. While EVs might not dominate the city’s streets just yet, their presence is growing fast.
In January 2023, Axios’ Joann Muller and Monica Eng reported that EVs made up 7.6% of monthly new vehicle registrations in the Chicago area—up from just 4.7% a year earlier. That’s nearly double the adoption rate in only 12 months!
Chicagoans are going green and loving owning cars that are quieter, cheaper to maintain, and increasingly stylish (have you seen the new Tesla Model S?!). At this pace, the city is well on its way to playing a key role in Illinois’ ambitious goal of one million EVs on the road by 2030.
Chicago’s EV Charging Infrastructure Steps Up
As of mid-2023, the city of Chicago is home to approximately 850 public charging stations. While that number might sound impressive, it’s just the beginning. With more electric vehicles hitting the streets every day, Chicago is racing to stay ahead of demand.
So, what kind of charging options can you find in Chicago? Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Level 1: Snail’s Pace Charging
Using a standard 120-volt outlet, they add just 2-5 miles of range per hour. Great for overnight charging at home, but not ideal if you’re in a hurry.
- Level 2: A Speedy Charge
The most common type of public charging, these 240-volt chargers provide a much faster boost, adding 10-60 miles of range per hour.
- DC Fast: Lightning-Fast!
Need a quick zap? DC fast chargers are your go-to. They can add 60-100+ miles of range in just 20-30 minutes.
What’s the best way to find public EV chargers in Chicago? It’s never been easier, thanks to some handy apps and tools:
- PlugShare: This app provides a map of nearby charging stations, complete with user reviews and detailed info on charger types.
- ChargeHub: A convenient way to locate chargers and get real-time availability updates.
- Google Maps: Yep, even Google has your back. Just search “EV charging stations,” and you’ll see options with directions and charger details.
Electrify America & EVgo: These apps are great for finding high-speed DC fast chargers, with features like spot reservations and station locations.
Interactive Map of Chicago EV Charging Stations
Curious about charging options in different Chicago neighborhoods? Explore ChargeHub’s interactive map here!
Legislation and Trends: Driving EV Growth in Chicago
Chicago may not have California’s bold mandate of 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, but if you live in the city, you’ve probably noticed the city’s public engagement campaigns promoting EV adoption.
The city knows that the convenience of owning an EV can quickly turn into a headache without accessible charging stations. And since 74.3% of Chicagoans live in multi-unit housing (where prime spots for EV chargers like garages are more luxury than standard), this isn’t a small hiccup.
That’s why the city is stepping up EV initiatives like:
- Simplifying the regulatory process for installing charging stations.
- Focusing on curbside charging in dense neighborhoods where private garages are rare.
The goal? Cleaner air, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and a future-ready city.
Driving Toward a Charged-Up Future
With electric vehicles zipping onto the scene faster than you can say “range anxiety,” it’s clear the all-electric revolution is here to stay.
Chicago is cruising past the single-digit adoption rates of a few years ago, and the numbers keep climbing thanks to juicy incentives like Illinois’ $4,000 EV rebate. Add in federal perks and Chicago’s local commitment to sustainability, and it’s no wonder EV ownership is picking up speed.
And while Chicago’s streets are humming with the sounds of EVs, the suburbs aren’t sitting idle. Places like Naperville, Oak Park, and Evanston are ramping up their charging game, making it easier for suburbanites to plug in and power up. It’s a win for the environment, the economy, and anyone tired of paying for gas.
Chicago Apartment Buildings and EV Charging
Residential developers are getting in on the action too, taking note that EV charging for condo buildings and apartments is no longer just a perk—it’s a necessity. To put some of this in perspective, we went back into the 2019 archives and looked at how many of our building partners offered EV charging. It was 45%.
Since then, the trend has only accelerated. In the last 5 years (2020-2024), we’ve added 56 newly-built properties to our partner mix, with 75% of them offering EV charging. As a matter of fact, every new building in 2024 offered EV charging–that’s right, 100% of them!
To get a deeper understanding of how the EV landscape is evolving with managed rental buildings, in November 2024, we conducted a survey of more than 250 of our building partners (who represent over 80,000 total apartment units). We asked about their EV charging availability, trends and tenant feedback, and to our delight, 51 of them provided a comprehensive response to our in-depth questions.
We also got detailed feedback from 29 of our internal agents, offering us insight on their daily, personal interactions with customers who need access to EV charging. You’ll come across our findings from these surveys throughout the rest of this article, with some interesting takeaways highlighted along the way. Take a look!
If you’re looking for an apartment in Chicago and own an EV, you’re officially part of the future! But now the big question: is it easy to keep your car charged in an apartment building? Let’s break it down.
Types of EV Chargers Found in Apartments
First, the type of charger you’ll find in an apartment building can make a big difference in how quickly you’re ready to hit the road. Of the 51 apartment buildings we heard from in our survey, the vast majority had Level 2 chargers—the kind that’ll get you fully charged overnight.
Some buildings even go the extra mile with smart chargers—fancy Level 2 setups that let you monitor charging, schedule sessions, and even pay through an app.
Common Challenges with EV Charging in Apartments
While simply having EV chargers in your apartment building is a huge win, it’s not always smooth sailing. Here are a few common hiccups that renters might encounter—and how buildings typically handle them:
When Demand Outpaces Supply
As EV adoption grows, some buildings are finding they have more EV drivers than charging stations. This can lead to a bit of a scramble, especially during peak hours. Our agent Brendan is hopeful that buildlings see the EV trend as one that’s here to stay. He comments that, “Ideally, a building has a mix of both assigned and first-come-first-serve chargers. That’s the dream!”
Managing Charger Access
In shared parking areas, chargers often operate on a shared-use system. These are communal chargers that typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis, or via a reservation system to keep things fair.
When a building doesn’t have rules in place, it can put tenants in a tough spot. Our agent Payton (who used to work in an apartment building that offered EV charging) says, “Apartment buildings with shared EV spaces should place a time limit on parking in them, so that more tenants can use the stations. Leaving a car overnight (say for a 10 hour period) should be the maximum amount of time allowed.”
Pro Tip: Ask Questions!
Don’t hesitate to ask us all your EV charging questions. We’ll have the answers (and if you stump us, we’ll find the answer, stat). Some questions we hear most often:
- How many stations are there?
- What’s the policy for using them?
- How much does it cost to charge?
- How does the building plan to accommodate growing demand as more renters go electric?
What Happens When Your Apartment Doesn’t Have EV Charging?
So, what if your dream apartment doesn’t have EV chargers? Don’t panic—there are ways to make it work.
Find Nearby Public Charging Stations
Apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint can help you find public chargers near your building.
Some neighborhoods, like the Loop and River North, are well-stocked with Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers, making it easier to manage without an on-site option.
Electric Car Hacks
Many EV owners in non-equipped buildings rely on creative solutions like charging during errands or combining grocery runs with a quick top-up. It’s not ideal, but it’s doable—especially if you have a solid charging network nearby.
But let’s be real: nothing beats the convenience of charging right at your apartment!
The 5 Best Apartments in Chicago with EV Chargers
Finding an apartment in Chicago that fits your lifestyle is tough enough—throw in the need for EV charging, and it can feel like hunting for a unicorn. But when it comes to finding apartments with EV charging, Chicago’s most plugged-in (pun intended) apartment matchmakers (that’s us!) have you covered.
We surveyed downtown’s best apartment buildings to get the scoop on their charging setups and picked the brains of our expert team. The result? A curated list of the top apartments in Chicago for EV owners, from buildings with stations galore to hidden gems with super-fast chargers.
The Building with the Most Chargers: Millie on Michigan
Located in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, Millie on Michigan is a stunner! Opened in 2022, this luxury high-rise is adored by tenants for its unbeatable views, modern finishes, and a prime location near all the action.
So why Millie for you and your electric car? The building boasts a whopping 19 Level 2 chargers, making it the go-to spot for renters who never want to wait to plug in. Chargers are assigned to tenants and rolled into your monthly parking fee for hassle-free billing.
The Best Deal in EV Charging: AMLI River North
Nestled in the lively River North neighborhood, AMLI River North is where upscale meets eco-friendly. Built in 2013, this stylish building is a renter favorite thanks to its spacious layouts, trendy vibe, and proximity to everything downtown living offers!
For EV drivers, the garage at AMLI River North offers a variety of short-term shared and assigned charging stations, including twelve Level 2 chargers that are assigned to tenants for the duration of their lease. That means no shared stations, no time slots, just reliable charging whenever you need it!
The Fastest Charging Option: Parc Huron
If speed is your thing, Parc Huron should be on your radar. This boutique-style building is known for its tranquil vibes and boutique charm. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from the Chicago River.
Parc Huron is home to six Level 3 chargers—yes, DC fast chargers! These speedy stations give you a full charge in just 20-30 minutes. Better yet, you get five hours of free charging each month, and it’s just $5/hour after that through ChargePoint.
Hotspot’s Pick for Best EV Charging Set-Up: The Thompson
Hotspot agents have spoken, and The Thompson takes the crown for the best EV charging setup in Chicago. Located in West Loop, this new 12-story property offers an unbeatable combination of style, convenience, and—most importantly—stress-free EV charging.
What sets The Thompson apart? A private, heated garage with dedicated EV charging stations, ensuring residents always have a reliable place to plug in—no battling for a spot or braving the elements. It’s the kind of seamless setup that makes owning an EV in the city effortless, which is exactly why our agents love it.
Closest to Tesla Superchargers: Aqua
For Tesla owners, Aqua in Lakeshore East might just be your charging soulmate. This architecturally stunning tower is famous for its wavy balconies, resort-style amenities, and unbeatable location near the lakefront, Millennium Park, and the buzzing downtown scene.
Aqua takes EV charging to the next level with Tesla Superchargers and ChargePoint stations right in its publicly managed SP+ garage. No need to fight over limited spots—just roll in, plug in, and power up.
For Tesla owners, the on-site Superchargers are a total game-changer. Need a quick boost before heading out? In just 20 minutes, you can go from nearly empty to fully charged—perfect for those last-minute road trips or unexpected detours. And for non-Tesla drivers, the ChargePoint stations offer a reliable, first-come, first-served solution for keeping your EV ready to roll.
Benefits of Choosing an EV-Friendly Apartment
Still on the fence? Here’s why an EV-equipped building is worth it:
- Cost Savings: Charging at home can save you big bucks compared to public charging or gas. Plus, you may qualify for tax incentives for going electric.
- Environmental Perks: By choosing an EV and charging at home, you’re shrinking your carbon footprint and contributing to a greener future.
- Future-Proof Living: EV chargers are quickly becoming a standard amenity in modern buildings. Choosing a home with one means you’re ahead of the curve and ready for what’s next.
How EV Chargers Are Becoming Non-Negotiable for Apartments
Let’s get real: EV chargers are no longer a “nice-to-have” amenity—they’re becoming as essential as, say, Wi-Fi or air conditioning. Here’s why:
- Growing Demand: Renters now expect charging stations at their apartment complexes.
- Sustainability Trends: New developments are prioritizing green practices, from solar panels to EV chargers, to appeal to environmentally conscious residents (and grab those sweet LEED certifications).
- Regulatory Push: Policies encouraging (or outright requiring) new buildings to be EV-ready are already cropping up across the country. Chicago isn’t there yet, but the writing’s on the wall—developers who don’t future-proof their buildings now are setting themselves up for costly retrofits later.
- Financial Incentives: Installing chargers isn’t just good for residents; it’s good for property owners’ wallets. Government grants and utility rebates are making it easier to cover installation costs.
Looking Ahead: The Charge to 2030
Chicago has its sights set on one million EVs by 2030, a goal driven by Illinois’ state initiatives and the city’s Climate Action Plan. To get there, expect to see more creative solutions like curbside charging pilot programs, an explosion of Level 2 stations, and perhaps even dedicated EV lanes (hey, an EV-owner can dream!).
As these trends and policies take shape, it’s clear that EV chargers are more than a perk—they’re a symbol of progress. And if you’re a renter with an EV (or even just considering one), living in a building with charging stations isn’t just convenient—it’s a glimpse into the future of modern city living.
FAQs About EV Charging at Apartments
How am I charged for charging my EV in a managed apartment?
Most apartments with EV chargers bill you based on usage, either as part of your monthly parking fee or through an app like ChargePoint.
Are all EV charging stations compatible with all vehicles (Tesla vs. non-Tesla)?
Nearly all Level 1 and Level 2 chargers are universally compatible, but Tesla vehicles require an adapter for non-Tesla chargers. Tesla Superchargers, however, are exclusive to Teslas.
Do apartments with EV charging have waiting lists for chargers?
Yes, it’s possible for a building to have a wait-list, but your leasing agent can help you find a building with available chargers.
Can visitors use the charging station?
This depends on the property. Some buildings restrict chargers to residents, while others allow visitor use for a fee.
Do EV charging stations increase rent or utility costs?
Not directly, but luxury buildings do roll the cost of all those incredible amenities into rent. Charging fees themselves are typically separate and usage-based.
How do I find the best EV-friendly apartment in Chicago?
Let us do the heavy lifting! Our team knows all the EV-ready buildings in the city and can help you find the perfect match—quickly and at no cost to you.
Plug In and Power Up Your Chicago Apartment Search!
Electric vehicles aren’t just a trend—they’re the future. And with more Chicagoans plugging into this electric lifestyle, EV charging stations have gone from “nice-to-have” to “must-have” for renters. Whether you’re already zipping around in an EV or planning to make the switch soon, choosing an apartment with EV charging is the smart, future-proof move.
Ready to find your perfect match? Let Hotspot Apartment Rentals hook you up with an EV-friendly apartment that checks all your boxes (and charges your car). Our expert agents know the ins, outs, and outlets of Chicago’s best apartments—and best of all, our services are totally free. Connect with our team and let’s get you plugged in!
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