SA 23 Chicago - Where to live

As an incoming SA in Chicago with an office in The Loop, for those in Chicago, where are the best locations for an intern to live? 

I'll be living with a SO and they're eying a job likely in the River North region, so hoping to find a place that suits both commutes. Also, what is a realistic budget, from what I have seen, it appears $1500-2000 is likely. 

Also would love to hear experiences with Chicago's public transit, is it nearly as reliable as NYC's? Do interns generally bring cars to Chicago? Would I have any issue commuting from River North/Gold Coast to The Loop without a car? 

Would love to hear former intern experiences in Chicago that can help answer these questions, thanks a lot! 

3 Comments
 

I lived in University Center which is right above South Loop. Nice place, furnished, and offered leases over the summer. I was a 10-15 minute walk from work, which was in the loop. There is also a red line stop right outside which takes you up to Gold Coast area, and was pretty reliable when I interned. Unless cost isn’t an issue, I wouldn’t recommend bringing a car.

 
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