- Chicago is a fun city to visit year-round and you can find attractive deals during the shoulder seasons, though summer sees the best weather for enjoying the lake or strolling through Millennium Park.
- Booking a private home via Airbnb may offer a safer option over hotels right now for travelers who want to control their own levels of social distancing and minimize contact with others.
- We found top-rated Airbnbs throughout the city at affordable prices ranging from $78 to $175 nightly.
- Read more: Are Airbnbs safe? We spoke to experts, a company representative, and an Airbnb host to share everything you should know before booking someone’s home.
As states continue phased reopenings following shutdowns due to COVID-19, many Americans are seeking affordable summer options within driving distance or looking to do staycations close to home.
With its impressive urban landscape, innovative food and drink, ample art and architecture, and friendly residents, Chicago is a popular destination for those in the Midwest.
Illinois has recently seen a decrease in new cases and started Phase 4 of reopening at the end of June. However, the situation continues to evolve and change around the US. It’s also vital to keep in mind that even with proper precautions, travel comes with a lot of risks right now. We always recommend following guidelines from local governments, the CDC, and WHO. You should also practice social distancing, hand washing, and wear a mask when in public.
Airbnb also recently launched rigorous new procedures for hosts and guests, which include stringent cleaning guidelines using agency-approved disinfectants and mandates waiting periods between guest bookings. However, opting into these policies is not mandatory for hosts, so potential renters should read up on individual listing's policies before making any bookings.
With all that in mind, if you are planning to visit Chicago, we combed Airbnb listings and chose the best options based on the following criteria:
- Airbnb listing is for the entire home (no awkward hallway conversations with your host).
- Listings are all affordably priced and start at under $175 per night.
- All are highly-rated Airbnb listings with a review score of 4.9 or higher.
- Properties have standout decor, amenities, and locations.
Read on for the best affordable Airbnbs in Chicago, listed by price from low to high.
Rock n roll suite in Ukrainian Village, $78
Book this suite starting at $78 per night
Music lovers (so, everyone?) will adore this themed home with a whimsical, interactive design. Grab and play a vinyl record right off the wall, or practice your musical skills on one of the many available instruments, such as the piano in the master bedroom. Other funky touches include a black light room, miniature game room, and plenty of ways to churn out tunes.
This listing has limited availability in July and August, but is wide open beginning in September.
Rating: 4.93
COVID policies: No specific policies are listed, but the host is a Superhost and 15 recent guests have noted the listing was "clean and tidy."
Cozy one-bedroom apartment in Smith Park, $89
Book this one-bedroom starting at $89 per night
They had me at king-size Tempurpedic mattress. Though, I'm also swayed by the upscale look, rave reviews, and a great price under $100 per night.
One review writes, "Lesley's place was great! Super clean and private, and much larger than it looks in the photos ... Seriously, the bed was very comfortable and right combo of soft/firm, and King size ... The neighborhood was really fun to explore; we walked to Humboldt Park and checked out a bunch of local shops, as well as had an easy walk to the Wicker Park area. The only downside of Lesley's place is that it was so comfortable and homey that we almost didn't want to go out and explore the city."
This property has full availability for July, August, and September.
Rating: 4.96
COVID policies: Nothing specific is listed, but the host is a Superhost a perfect 5.0 rating for cleanliness.
Stylish apartment in Ukrainian Village, $95
Book this apartment starting at $95 per night
While the premise of a basement apartment certainly could sound dreary, this home is light and bright. I love the exposed brick, colorful art, and kitchen with a farmhouse feel. With one double bed, it's perfect for a solo traveler or couple, with close proximity to Logan Square and Wicker Park.
This home has limited availability for the next few months, though bookings are subject to change.
Rating: 4.92
COVID policies: This host is enlisted in Airbnb's new Enhanced Clean program.
One-bedroom home with outdoor space in River West, $109
Book this home starting at $109 per night
I always particularly enjoy booking an Airbnb Plus Verified home, as I can rest easy knowing every need has been anticipated, with impeccable design, service, and amenities. This home is especially welcoming, with an HD cinema projector and 100-inch screen, modern artwork, and a private patio for cozy evenings by the fire.
This home still has many days and weekends available in July, August, September, and beyond.
Rating: 4.92
COVID policies: No specific policies are listed, but it is a highly rated Airbnb Plus listing.
Modern one-bedroom in Boystown, $118
Book this modern apartment starting at $118 per night
Here's another immaculate listing with photogenic decor and a great location. Bonus: there's a free parking spot included, making it an ideal option for those within driving distance of Chicago.
Confirms one reviewer, "This apartment is gorgeous and in a nice, quiet part of Boystown. The location is perfect. Couldn't have picked a better spot."
This property has full availability beginning in August.
Rating: 4.9
COVID policies: This listing is part of Airbnb's new Enhanced Clean program.
Two-bedroom farmhouse in Noble Square, $119
Book this farmhouse starting at $119 per night
Another Airbnb Plus home, this offering has stunning bedrooms and a gorgeous bath. A tranquil backyard, rave reviews, and price tag under $120 per night means it's also a total deal.
"Beautiful home with lots of thoughtful touches. The garden was the real highlight, a green oasis to escape the urban environment ... Reasonably close to public transport and an easy trip into the center of town. Very much enjoyed," writes one reviewer.
This listing still has a few days left in July and August with more days becoming available at the end of September.
Rating: 4.99
COVID policies: No specific policies are listed, but it is a highly-rated Airbnb Plus listing.
Historic coach house in Old Town, $145
Book this coach house starting at $145 per night
Located in historic and central Old Town, this duplex with two bedrooms was originally built in 1887, but today boasts a comfortable, modern feel.
It has loads of five-star reviews, including this high praise, "This Airbnb is in a prime location! Only a hop, skip, and jump away from the heart of the city. Also great amenities, cleanliness, and service!"
This listing currently has a pause on new bookings.
Rating: 4.97
COVID policies: No specific guidelines are outlined, but the host has a 4.9 out of 5 for cleanliness.
Two-bedroom duplex in Ukrainian Village, $150
Book this duplex starting at $150 per night
With two large bedrooms, cathedral ceilings, and an open, airy loft layout, this home base is ideal for a small group or two couples. Everything looks modern and bright, the kitchen is brand new, and reviews promise the pictures don't do it full justice.
This property is available almost every day from the end of July onwards.
Rating: 4.94
COVID policies: No specific new policies are outlined, but the property has a 4.8 out of 5 for cleanliness.
Apartment with scenic views in River North, $165
Book this apartment starting at $165 per night
If city views are your goal, this is the spot for you. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning cityscape scenes from every room and the balcony. Plus, there's even a rooftop pool that overlooks the nearby skyscrapers.
The one-bedroom apartment is elegantly furnished in crisp, neutral tones and the fully stocked kitchen features an elegant, oversized island. The location is tough to beat with some of the city's best offerings and easy public transportation right at your doorstep.
This property has almost all days currently available to book.
Rating: 4.90
COVID policies: No specific policies are listed, but the host is a Superhost with a 4.9 out of 5 for cleanliness. Several recent guests have also marked the listing "sparkling clean."
Lakeview greystone near Wrigley Field, $175
Book this Lakeview apartment starting at $175 per night
This Airbnb Plus listing is impeccably designed from the brick fireplace and cozy reading nook to the quirky wall art and rainfall shower. With three full bedrooms, there's plenty of room for families or groups since it sleeps up to six guests.
Baseball fans will be particularly happy with the apartment's Lakeview location since it is right next to Wrigley Field.
One recent guest gave the property a glowing review, saying "Our family really enjoyed our stay. The unit was clean, thoughtfully stocked, comfortable, stylishly fun and in a great location. The parking was an added bonus that made getting in and out very convenient."
This property has plenty of availability in July, August, and beyond.
Rating: 4.94
COVID policies: The property notes in the listing name that it is professionally cleaned, however, no specific policies are detailed.