Chicago condo buildings differ widely in fees, finances, rules, and character. I profile buildings in the Gold Coast, River North, Streeterville, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and the Loop, and I explain how condos and co-ops differ, so you can compare before you tour.
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Condo Buildings by Neighborhood
Pick a neighborhood to see its condos for sale today.
Gold Coast
Historic and luxury condo buildings near the lake and Oak Street.
See Gold Coast condos →River North
Loft conversions and high-rise condos north of the river.
See River North condos →Streeterville
High-rise condos near the lakefront and Michigan Avenue.
See Streeterville condos →Old Town
Vintage and mid-rise condos in and around the Old Town Triangle historic district.
See Old Town condos →Lincoln Park
Vintage and mid-rise condo buildings near the park and lakefront.
See Lincoln Park condos →Lakeview
Walk-up, vintage, and mid-rise condos near Wrigleyville and the lakefront.
See Lakeview condos →The Loop
High-rise condos in the heart of downtown.
See Loop condos →South Loop
Loft conversions and high-rise condos south of the Loop.
See South Loop condos →West Loop
Loft and new-construction condos west of the river.
See West Loop condos →Co-op Buildings
Many of downtown’s classic buildings are co-ops, and they work differently from condos. Here is how.
| Condo | Co-op | |
|---|---|---|
| What you own | Your unit, plus a share of the common areas | Shares in a corporation, with a proprietary lease for your unit |
| Property taxes | Each unit has its own PIN and tax bill | Typically one building-wide tax bill, paid through your monthly fee |
| Buyer approval | Usually lender and association document review | Board approval, often with a financial review and interview |
Best Of & By Type
Start with the kind of building that fits how you want to live.
How I Research Each Building
Common Questions About Chicago Condo and Co-op Buildings
Updated October 2026
What is the difference between a condo and a co-op in Chicago?
In a condo, you own your unit and share ownership of the common areas. In a co-op, you own shares in a corporation and have a proprietary lease for your unit. Co-op buyers usually need board approval, and the process can be stricter than buying a condo.
How can I tell whether a building is a condo or a co-op?
Check the property tax records. Each condo unit has its own property index number, or PIN, while a co-op building typically has one PIN for the whole building. Recorded condo declarations also confirm condo status.
What should I look for when comparing Chicago condo buildings?
Compare monthly fees and what they cover, reserve funds, any pending or recent special assessments, rental and pet rules, and whether lenders will approve loans in the building. Sales history shows how units have held their value.
Can you help me find the right building?
Yes. Tell me your budget, must-haves, and preferred neighborhoods, and I will recommend buildings to tour in the Gold Coast, River North, Streeterville, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and the Loop. I have been licensed since 1987.
Thinking About a Building?
Call or send a message, and Anne will get back to you.
Or email anne@rossley.com