15 Best Spaces for Coworking in Chicago (2024)

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Struggling to find an inspiring place to work and network in the Windy City? You’ve come to the right place!

With 16 years of experience in the remote work and freelancing scene in Chicago, even before becoming a digital nomad in 2019, I’ve explored the far reaches of the spaces for coworking in Chicago.

Now the spaces for coworking in Chicago are better than ever before, with maker studios and luxury options unlike anywhere else. There’s even a Chicago coworking space with a home in a vintage train car!

Keep reading to find the coworking space that not only meets your business needs but also propels your professional growth. Let’s go!

Our Coworking in Chicago “Best Of” Criteria

Our rigorous review process for coworking spaces in Chicago is anchored in a set of criteria tailored to the needs of today’s professionals.

We understand that the right environment can make all the difference in productivity and professional satisfaction. Here is what we considered to bring you the best options:

• Community Dynamics – The strength and vibe of the coworking space’s community.
• Workspace Flexibility – The variety of spaces and membership plans available, accommodating both transient visitors and long-term tenants.
• Location Convenience – Proximity to transit, dining, and other urban amenities.
• Unique Amenities – Standout features such as high-speed internet, private phone booths, event spaces, and more.
• Membership Benefits – Additional perks that come with your space, like networking events or discounts on services.
• Consumer Reviews – Considering the ratings and feedback from current and past members on Google and other review platforms.
• Expansion and Availability – The presence of the coworking brand in other cities and the ability to access spaces elsewhere.

We believe these key aspects are vital to anyone seeking an optimal coworking experience in Chicago.

With each space offering its own unique charm and set of resources, our guide aims to match you with a space that resonates with your work style and professional needs.

Roundup of the Best Coworking Spaces in Chicago

This roundup of coworking spaces in Chicago isn’t in any particular order because everyone has different requirements for coworking spaces.

So read them all before you choose one. You may even want to test out a few before committing. My personal favorite is #14!

1. NextSpace

NextSpace Chicago offers a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers looking to tap into a vibrant community.

With a focus on cultivating an environment of collaboration, NextSpace provides the ideal platform for networking and productivity.

🎱 Unique Amenities: Privates phone booths, on-site cafe, weekly networking events
⭐️ Google Rating: 4.5 stars
🏢 Location: 230 W Superior St, Chicago, IL 60654
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $199
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: Yes, in other US cities
🌏 International Presence: No

2. Expansive

At the heart of Chicago’s business district, Expansive (formerly Novel Coworking), offers a professional workspace that caters to a variety of work styles.

Expansive’s modern design and robust infrastructure provide an excellent atmosphere for productivity and innovation.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed internet, on-demand office supplies, executive suites, event space rentals
⭐️ Google Rating: 4.6 stars
🏢 Most Popular Chicago Location: 73 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $250
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 3
💻 Operates Elsewhere: Yes, across several states in the US
🌏 International Presence: No

3. The Pitch at the Loop

Located in Chicago’s business district, The Pitch offers collaborative workspace with modern amenities. Its open design and robust tech infrastructure foster productivity and innovation among members.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, printing stations, phone booths, event space
⭐️ Google Rating: 4.8 stars
🏢 Location: 222 S Riverside Plaza Suite 2325, Chicago, IL 60606
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $299
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: No

4. Bond Collective

Located in Chicago’s West Loop, the Bond Collective is a modern coworking space provider that offers thoughtfully curated boutique work environments.

They focus on providing an unmatched experience for businesses and individuals looking for shared office spaces.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, printing stations, conference rooms, event space
⭐️ Google Rating: 4.6 stars
🏢 Location: 215 W Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60654
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $349
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: Yes, Bond Collective has locations in various US cities
🌏 International Presence: No

5. WeWork

With multiple prime locations across downtown Chicago, WeWork provides shared workspaces designed to elevate productivity. Its modern aesthetic, business-class amenities, and strong community create an inspiring environment for companies and freelancers alike.

By facilitating meaningful connections through physical space, WeWork aims to provide the infrastructure for people to create their life’s work.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, private phone booths, printing stations, spacious common areas, fully-stocked kitchens, events calendar
⭐️ Google Rating: 4.2 stars
🏢 Most Popular Chicago Location: 330 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $350
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 10+
💻 Operates Elsewhere: Yes, WeWork has many locations globally
🌏 International Presence: Yes, across over 35 countries

6. Platform Coworking Space

Located in the vibrant West Loop area, Platform offers hip, loft-style coworking with modern design. Its creative spaces, tech amenities, and community events cater to startups, entrepreneurs, and remote workers.

Platform aims to help members collaborate, focus, and bring ideas to life.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, private phone booths, printing stations, podcast room, coffee bar
⭐️ Google Rating: 5 stars
🏢 Location: 125 S Clark St, Chicago, IL 60603
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $299
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: No

7. TechNexus

Located in the heart of the Loop, TechNexus offers modern coworking space tailored for tech companies and entrepreneurs.

With its focus on innovation, TechNexus provides access to mentors, investors, and programming for growth. Its goal is to foster meaningful connections and collaborations within the tech community.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, private desks/offices, prototyping lab, event space, programming and investor office hours
⭐️ Facebook Rating: 4.4 Stars
🏢 Location: 20 N Upper Wacker Dr Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60606
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $325 (desk), $975 (office)
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: Yes, worldwide
🌏 International Presence: Yes, TechNexus has global locations to connect regional tech ecosystems

8. Spaces

With a premier River North address, Spaces provides professional coworking spaces and services for businesses of all sizes.

Its contemporary office spaces, business amenities, and member community create a productive environment to drive success.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, private offices, meeting rooms, business lounge, event space
⭐️ Google Rating: 4.4 stars
🏢 Location: 444 N Michigan Ave Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $295
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: Yes, Spaces has over 3000 locations globally
🌏 International Presence: Yes, across over 120 countries

9. The Hoxton

Located in the vibrant Fulton Market district, The Hoxton offers a hip hotel combined with chic coworking spaces.

Blending work and hospitality, The Hoxton provides loft-style offices, trendy amenities, and luxury hotel perks for an inspiring professional environment.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, printing stations, meeting rooms, hotel discounts, cocktail bar
⭐️ Google Rating: 4.5 stars
🏢 Location: 200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $300
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: Yes, The Hoxton has locations in several major cities
🌏 International Presence: Yes, across North America and Europe

10. Workbox

With multiple locations in downtown Chicago, Workbox offers affordable and community-driven coworking spaces.

Its laidback atmosphere, shared amenities, and member events aim to support productivity and collaboration for startups, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, printing stations, conference rooms, monthly member events
⭐️ Google Rating: 5 stars
🏢 Most Popular Chicago Location: 205 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60606
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $99
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 3
💻 Operates Elsewhere: No

11. 1871

Located in the famous Merchandise Mart, 1871 operates Chicago’s premier tech and entrepreneurial hub.

Providing coworking spaces, programming, resources, and a collaborative community, 1871 supports the growth of startups. Its mission is to develop lasting tech companies that bolster the Chicago economy and beyond.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, private offices, prototyping labs, event space, investor engagements
⭐️ Google Rating: 4.7 stars
🏢 Location: 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza Suite 1212, Chicago, IL 60654
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $300 (hot desk), $600 (dedicated desk)
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: No

12. Nimbler

Located in Chicago’s West Town, where we lived for over 10 years, Nimbler provides hip, industrial-chic coworking spaces for startups and entrepreneurs.

With its laidback environment and collaborative community, Nimbler aims to support innovation and meaningful connections amongst members.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, printing stations, podcast room, communal kitchen, member events
⭐️ Google Rating: 5 stars
🏢 Location: 1252 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $99
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: No

13. DeskLabs

Located in the Loop’s civic center, DeskLabs provides sleek, modern coworking spaces for businesses, freelancers and remote workers.

With tech-enabled amenities and hospitality-inspired community, DeskLabs aims to create an upscale and productive environment for members.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, private offices, meeting rooms, coffee bar, member networking events
⭐️ Google Rating: 5 stars
🏢 Location: 160 N LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60601
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $299
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: No

14. Car Workspaces

Located in River West, Car Workspaces offers unique coworking housed in vintage railway cars. Gives a whole new meaning to working on the go, right?!

Blending work and hospitality amenities, its railroad-themed offices provide a one-of-a-kind, inspiring environment to stimulate productivity and innovation.

🎱 Unique Amenities: High-speed WiFi, printing stations, meeting rooms, cafe car, networking events
⭐️ Google Rating: 5 stars
🏢 Location: 900 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $250
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: No

15. mHUB

Located in Chicago’s Kinzie Industrial Corridor, mHUB operates the Windy City’s only innovation center focused on physical product development and manufacturing.

With prototyping labs, light manufacturing equipment, mentorship programs, and an engaged community, mHUB is a coworking space that supports early-stage startups bringing new hardware technologies to market.

🎱 Unique Amenities: Prototyping labs, electronics labs, metal/wood shops, flexible event space, industry-focused programming
⭐️ Google Rating: 4.8 stars
🏢 Location: 965 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
💰 Starting Monthly Pass Rate: $275
🍕 Number of Chicago Locations: 1
💻 Operates Elsewhere: No

Exploring Alternatives for Coworking in Chicago

If you find that traditional coworking spaces aren’t quite the right fit, there are various alternative environments where you can still work productively and comfortably.

Some people thrive in less structured or alternative settings that can offer flexibility and a change of pace. Here are a few options to consider:

• Coffee Shops: Many coffee shops in Chicago offer free Wi-Fi and a bustling atmosphere which can be ideal for those who prefer a more casual setting.
• Public Libraries: Public libraries provide a quiet environment perfect for focusing on work. With the added benefit of access to research materials, they can be a great, cost-effective option.
• Collective Studios: Artists and creatives often favor collective studios where they can collaborate and create in a shared space with others from their field.
• University Campuses: Local universities can have shared spaces open to the public where you can work among students and academics, providing an intellectual ambiance.
• Hotel Lobbies: Many hotels offer comfortable seating areas that are ideal for working on the go, especially if you’re already traveling for business.

These alternatives can complement traditional coworking spaces or serve as your primary workspace, depending on your personal and professional needs.

Ultimately, the goal is to find a place where you can be most effective in your work – whether it’s in a classic coworking environment or a more unconventional space.

Final Thoughts on Coworking in Chciago

With a diverse array of coworking spaces in Chicago to choose from, finding the perfect spot in Chicago for productivity, collaboration, and community is within reach for any professional or team.

• Chicago’s coworking scene offers environments for every working style, from vibrant community hubs to more intimate, focused workspaces.
• Each space provides unique amenities, from high-tech conference rooms to cozy lounges and caffeine fixes, ensuring a comfortable and efficient workday.
• Considerations such as location, cost, flexible work options, and community culture are key to selecting the right coworking space.
• Whether you’re looking for a single hot desk or an expansive corporate suite, you can find a coworking solution in Chicago that fits your budget.
• Coworking spaces in Chicago are more than just places to work—they’re platforms for networking, innovation, and growth.

Coworking in Chicago FAQs

Do you still have questions about coworking in Chicago? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

What is coworking?

Coworking refers to the concept of individuals and teams working independently or collaboratively in a shared office space. These environments often provide essential office amenities such as desks, meeting rooms, and high-speed internet, along with community events and networking opportunities to foster collaboration among professionals from diverse fields.

What are the benefits of coworking spaces?

Coworking spaces offer a range of benefits including flexibility, cost savings, and opportunities for social interactions and professional networking. These spaces provide a structured environment that can increase productivity, while also offering the potential for collaboration and innovation through a community of like-minded professionals.

Can I book a coworking space for one day only in Chicago?

Yes, many coworking spaces in Chicago offer the flexibility of booking a space for just one day. This is ideal for freelancers, travelers, or anyone who needs a professional setting for a short duration, without the commitment of a long-term lease.

Are coworking spaces in Chicago suitable for teams or startups?

Yes, coworking spaces in Chicago often cater to teams and startups by offering various office solutions from dedicated desks to private offices and large suites. These spaces also provide the scalability for growing businesses to expand their area as needed within the coworking community.

What should I look for when choosing a coworking space in Chicago?

When choosing a coworking space in Chicago, consider factors such as the location’s convenience, the types of membership plans available, the amenities and services provided, the community and networking potential, and of course, affordability. It’s essential to select a space that aligns with both your professional needs and personal work style.