Chicago Rent Growth Surges in 2025, Ranks #2 in U.S. Market

Chicago Rent Growth Surges in 2025, Ranks #2 in U.S. Market

Chicago rent growth is surging in 2025, positioning the city as the second-strongest apartment market in the U.S., according to new data from CoStar Analytics. While San Francisco leads with a 5.0% annual increase, Chicago follows closely at 3.8%, driven by strong demand and limited new supply.

Nationwide, the U.S. multifamily sector is stabilizing after several years of volatility. Net absorption hit 268,000 units in the first half of the year—the third-highest ever recorded for that period. Meanwhile, new completions dropped by 25% year-over-year, helping ease the elevated national vacancy rate to 8.1%.

Chicago Outperforms as Sun Belt Struggles

Chicago rent growth stands out amid a national backdrop of modest rent gains. The CoStar report notes that asking rents nationwide rose just 0.9% year-over-year. In contrast, oversupplied Sun Belt markets like Austin (-4.3%), Denver (-3.2%), and Phoenix (-2.6%) saw steep declines.

Asset Class Trends: Affordability Wins

Affordable units (1–2 star) led rent growth at 1.7%, while luxury units (4–5 star) gained only 0.5%. Mid-tier (3-star) apartments aligned with the national average at 1%. These trends reflect growing demand for affordability, particularly in high-cost cities.

2025 Outlook for Multifamily Markets

Completions are projected to drop to 492,000 units by year-end. With sustained renter demand, the national vacancy rate may dip below 8%, and annual rent growth is forecast to rise to 1.8%. Chicago and other low-supply metros in the Midwest and Northeast are best positioned to outperform.

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