Studying in Chicago
Illinois, United States
Chicago is the largest city in the US Midwest, with elite universities, a diverse economy spanning finance, tech, and the arts, and a celebrated architecture, food, and music scene — all at living costs well below New York or the West Coast.
Universities and major institutes
- University of Chicago
- Northwestern University (Evanston)
- University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- DePaul and Loyola University Chicago
Cost of living
Chicago is more affordable than the coastal cities. Expect $800–$1,500 per month for a room in a shared apartment, with an extensive “L” train and bus network. Winters are cold.
Neighbourhoods for students
- Hyde Park — University of Chicago’s lakeside home.
- Evanston — Northwestern’s suburb just north of the city.
- Lincoln Park — central, near DePaul, lively.
- Pilsen / University Village — near UIC, diverse and affordable.
Institutions in Chicago
Northwestern University
A private research university on Lake Michigan just north of Chicago, well known for journalism, theatre, and business programmes.
University of Chicago
A private research university on Chicago's South Side, renowned for rigorous academics and its influential economics department.
Explore more: universities in United States, cost of living, and student visas.