Best Areas to Live in Chicago for Nurses Near Hospitals (2025 Guide)
Chicago is a prime destination for travel nurses in 2025, offering top-tier medical facilities, diverse housing options, and a vibrant city life. For traveling nurses, choosing the right neighborhood is key to balancing proximity to hospitals, affordability, and lifestyle.
In this guide, we highlight the best Chicago neighborhoods for traveling nurses, especially those working near the city’s leading hospitals.
1. Streeterville – Near Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Why it’s great for travel nurses:
Streeterville is home to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, one of Chicago’s premier healthcare facilities. Nurses working there enjoy a 5-10 minute commute on foot or by bike.
Neighborhood perks:
- Safe, walkable streets
- Access to the lakefront and Navy Pier
- High-end apartments with short-term rental options
Average Rent (2025): $2,300–$3,200/month for 1-bedroom furnished units
Learn more about Streeterville
2. South Loop – Close to Rush University Medical Center & UIC
Why it’s great for travel nurses:
The South Loop provides easy access to Rush University Medical Center and the University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System (UI Health).
Neighborhood perks:
- Affordable compared to downtown
- Modern apartment buildings
- Public transit via the CTA Green and Pink Lines
Average Rent (2025): $1,800–$2,600/month for 1-bedroom furnished apartments
3. Hyde Park – Ideal for University of Chicago Medical Center Nurses
Why it’s great for travel nurses:
Hyde Park is a favorite for those working at the University of Chicago Medical Center.
Neighborhood perks:
- Historic architecture and tree-lined streets
- Strong community vibe
- More affordable housing options compared to downtown
Average Rent (2025): $1,500–$2,200/month for 1-bedroom units
4. Lincoln Park – Balanced Urban Living Near Advocate Illinois Masonic
Why it’s great for travel nurses:
Lincoln Park is a charming, upscale area near Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center and a short commute to other North Side hospitals.
Neighborhood perks:
- Popular with young professionals
- Parks, shops, and restaurants galore
- Multiple CTA Red and Brown Line stops
Average Rent (2025): $2,000–$2,800/month for 1-bedroom units
5. Logan Square – Trendy & Affordable for Nurses Willing to Commute
Why it’s great for travel nurses:
A bit farther from downtown, Logan Square offers a cool, artsy vibe with lower rent prices. Commutes to Rush, UI Health, or Northwestern are around 30-40 minutes via CTA Blue Line.
Neighborhood perks:
- Hip restaurants and nightlife
- Lower cost of living for city dwellers
- Lots of short-term rental options
Average Rent (2025): $1,600–$2,000/month for 1-bedroom apartments
Bonus Tip: Use Furnished Finder & Travel Nurse Housing Platforms
For travel nurses, platforms like Furnished Finder and Travel Nurse Housing are excellent for finding short-term, fully furnished rentals near Chicago hospitals.
Final Thoughts
When choosing the best Chicago neighborhood for your travel nurse assignment, consider:
- Proximity to your hospital
- Commute options (walk, CTA, bike)
- Rent affordability
- Lifestyle fit (urban, artsy, family-friendly)
Each neighborhood offers unique perks, whether you prioritize location, cost, or community. With careful planning, your Chicago assignment can be both professionally rewarding and personally enriching.
