When people first hear the term coliving, they sometimes think it sounds experimental, or maybe even a little too communal. But in practice, coliving in Chicago is less about sharing everything and more about rethinking how we live in a city that never seems to slow down.

I’ve rented the standard apartment before. Lock the door, pay the bills, maybe wave at the neighbor in the hallway if you’re lucky. It works, sure. But there’s something about the built-in flexibility and sense of connection that coliving offers that feels—well, different. Maybe better, depending on where you are in life.

Community Without Pressure

One of the most talked-about benefits of coliving in Chicago is the community aspect. Not community in the forced, “we’re all best friends” sense. It’s more subtle. Shared spaces naturally encourage people to bump into each other, whether it’s over morning coffee or while heading out to an event. Sometimes you click with someone. Other times it’s just a passing hello that still makes the building feel warmer, less anonymous.

Of course, it’s not perfect. You might prefer solitude after a long day, and that’s still possible—doors close, headphones go in. But the option to connect is always there, and it tends to make the city feel less isolating.

Flexibility That Fits Real Life

Traditional apartment leases can feel rigid. Twelve months, sometimes longer, and you’re stuck unless you’re willing to pay a hefty fee. Coliving spaces often take a different approach, offering more flexible lease terms. That makes a big difference if you’re new to Chicago, testing out neighborhoods, or even navigating a career shift.

There’s also the convenience factor. Many coliving options bundle utilities, Wi-Fi, and furnishings into one package. That’s less paperwork, fewer surprises, and, frankly, one less headache when you just want to move in and settle down.

More Affordable Than You’d Expect

Chicago isn’t New York or San Francisco when it comes to rent, but costs still add up quickly. Coliving can be a way to make city living more affordable without feeling cramped. Splitting resources—like utilities or even just the cost of common amenities—keeps expenses lower.

That doesn’t mean you’re giving up quality. In fact, coliving in Chicago often comes with access to features that would be hard to afford in a traditional one-bedroom—fitness centers, rooftop lounges, or work-from-home spaces designed to feel inspiring rather than isolating.

A Space That Works for Modern Life

Think about how people live today: remote jobs, hybrid schedules, the blur between work and downtime. Coliving spaces are usually designed with that in mind. Instead of squeezing a desk into the corner of your bedroom, you might find a dedicated coworking area just down the hall.

It’s a subtle shift, but it changes the way you experience your day. You can start the morning working in a quiet lounge, head back to your private room for a break, then join friends in a shared kitchen for dinner. Traditional apartments, while familiar, rarely offer that level of built-in variety.

Why It Might Be the Right Move for You

Coliving isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking to buy, raise a family, or stay rooted for decades, a traditional apartment—or a house—might feel more stable. But for those in transition, curious about meeting new people, or simply looking for a more cost-effective way to live in a vibrant city, coliving in Chicago makes a strong case.

I think the appeal lies in its balance: privacy when you need it, connection when you want it, and flexibility to adapt as your life changes. That’s hard to find in a standard lease.

If you’re curious, you can learn more about available options at
808 Cleveland. Maybe you’ll find that a more connected, flexible lifestyle is exactly what this stage of your life needs.