Up front expenses

Application Fees
You will need to pay an application fee, which will typically range from $50 to $100, to cover the cost of credit check, employment and landlord background checks.

Security Deposits
Some Chicago landlords require a security deposit equivalent to one month's rent. This deposit protects the landlord against potential damage to the unit. The landlord is only able to deduct unpaid rent and damage beyond ordinary wear and tear from your deposit. Landlords are required to return security deposits within 45 days from the date you vacate the unit, along with any accrued and unpaid interest. Landlords must provide a written list of any deductions accompanied by receipts for repair work performed by third parties.

Move-in and Move-out Fees
Most landlords charge move-in fees in lieu of accepting security deposits. Move-in fees are non-refundable, typically range from $300 to $1,000, and must bear some reasonable relation to the costs (and potential damages) associated with allowing the tenant to move-in. Additionally, some buildings may charge move-out fees to cover the cost of cleaning and minor repairs after the tenant vacates the unit. Make certain to inquire about all fees, over and above monthly rent, associated with moving into, and then out of, the property. 

Ongoing expenses

Utilities
Utilities will vary from building to building and tenants are required to establish utility accounts in their own name before moving in. The following estimates are for three bedroom and smaller rental units in multi-unit buildings.
Electricity: Expect to pay approximately $70 to $100 monthly, and higher during the summer months if you run air conditioning.
Gas: Tenants typically pay their own gas bills, which range from about $40 to $115 per month or more. Bills are higher in the winter due to increased heating demands if the apartment runs on gas for heat. However, some buildings offer free heat with steam radiators or hot water systems.
Internet: A basic to moderate Internet plan costs about $50 to $70 per month.
Cable: Basic TV packages start around $60 per month, with comprehensive packages costing $150 or more monthly.
Water: In most instances, and in multi-unit buildings, water and sewer charges are billed directly to the landlord.
Trash: As with water and sewer charges, the costs of trash hauling are usually billed directly to the landlord, especially for multi-unit buildings rather than single-family homes. If not, then the tenant should expect to incur $10 to $30 per month for this service.
Many landlords charge tenants a monthly fee for cable, internet, water and trash as part of a "utility bundle package" and the tenants have no choice but to purchase the package.

Pet Fees
In Chicago, landlords may prohibit pets or permit them subject to the tenant's payment of pet fees, to cover potential damage or additional cleaning costs. The pet fees in Chicago may vary depending on the type and size of the pet, the landlord retains absolute discretion in setting the price. Landlords may not, however, prohibit or charge pet fees for emotional support animals or service animals protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Fair Housing Act. Make sure you have the correct ESA or Service Animal paperwork ready to turn in with your application paperwork.
 
Here's a breakdown of pet costs you might encounter:
Pet Deposit: This is a one-time refundable deposit that covers potential damage caused by the pet. The average pet deposit in Chicago ranges from $200 to $500. The deposit is refundable at the end of the lease term, provided the pet was well-behaved and caused no damage beyond normal wear and tear. 
Pet Fee: Unlike a deposit, a pet fee is a one-time or annual, non-refundable charge for allowing the pet to live in the apartment. The fee typically ranges from $200 to $400.
Pet Rent: Besides deposits and fees, some landlords also charge monthly pet rent ranging from $25 to $50 per month, per pet.

Amenity Fees
Buildings with amenities like business centers, co-working spaces, fitness centers, pools, and rooftop decks may charge additional amenity fees. These fees can range from being included in the rent to $300 per month or more, so keep this in mind when you are looking at a building with amenities. When touring these properties ask questions and take building and unit brochures to make sure you can compare different costs once you get home.

Renter's Insurance
Many landlords require tenants to have a policy of renter's insurance and you should have it even if it not required for your protection. The same company that you have your automobile insurance with may offer renters insurance. One online option for renters insurance is Lemonade but making sure whoever you chose they are the right fit for you.  The cost of renters insurance in Chicago typically ranges from $25 to $50 per month, depending on the policy options you chose.

Parking
Parking costs will vary by neighborhood and if it is permitted street parking, reserved outdoor space or a heated garage.

Residential Building Garages and Lots: Buildings that have parking lots or garages for their tenants charge from $150 to $400 per month for a garage space, with outdoor spots typically costing less, around $75 to $250.
Independent Garages and parking lots: If the building you are looking at does not have parking you might find parking in the area. Rates vary by location, typically from $20 to $40 per day for daily parking. Monthly rates are also available, ranging from $200 to $400, depending on the garage. Covered non-heated or parking in a lot are always cheaper that heated garages.
Street Parking Permits: Street parking are another option, but you may need a city issued sticker to park on the street. Pay careful attention to street cleaning signs or temporary parking restrictions to ensure that you don't find a ticket on your windshield.
Winter Parking Considerations: Aside from the snow, parking during the winter can present several challenges. Be mindful of the winter overnight parking ban (December 1 to April 1) and the snow route parking bans which are activated during snow accumulation of two inches or more. Pay careful attention to signs to ensure that you don't wake up missing your car or find a ticket on your windshield.

Public Transportation
Chicago's public transportation system is extensive and affordable. Daily options are available and month passes provide unlimited access to buses and trains. The CTA Ventra app can keep you pay with a cell phone and update you when the next bus or train will arrive at you location. For suburban travel there are Metra trains and Pace busses to get you around without an automobile, both offer daily or monthly options.

Baird & Warner fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. The Chicago Fair Housing Regulations prohibit housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, military status, source of income or immigration status. Anybody using our services must abide by all Fair Housing Laws.