215 West Apartments

215 West feels like one of the best places to live downtown in Chicago. It has a welcoming, secure atmosphere, a great location, and attentive staff. Abigail and April are wonderful managers, and the whole team works hard to make residents comfortable and help them enjoy what the city has to offer.

The maintenance crew has been great, and they earn one of the two stars. The rest of the experience has worn on me after about two years here. At $30k+ a year in rent, dealing with some staff who feel about as professional as a downtown DMV at rush hour seems silly. Elevators and trash chutes are out more often than seems reasonable, and about 75% of the time I leave, I get hassled by homeless people outside the front door. It gets exhausting.

The building keeps its amenities in good shape, and the renovated amenity floor now has a spanking new coffee machine with good free coffee. I also enjoy the thoughtful events and mixers the office staff put on now and then. After four years here, I just renewed my lease. The location puts me near everything, but a couple of blocks away from the crowds. I can walk toward west loop for a quiet evening stroll, or head to State Street, Millenium park, and the Magnificent Mile for restaurants, shopping, and things to do. Everything is walkable. I've seen luxury buildings and condos around downtown Chicago and heard management horror stories, but I can't think of one thing to complain about at 215 W. The higher units also get all that sunshine and glorious downtown view.

The neighbors and community are really welcoming, and the staff and management take great care of tenants. I've been here 10 months and just renewed for another year. For the price, 215 is a total steal. I highly recommend it.