BRRRR Investing in Chicago, IL
Data-driven brrrr analysis for Chicago, IL — score breakdown, key investment metrics, and how it compares to other markets.
Last updated: May 2026
Score Breakdown
Key Metrics for BRRRR
Median Price
$275,000
Higher entry
Cap Rate
6.0%
Good
Rent-to-Price
0.58%
Post-refi cash flow indicator
Pop. Growth
-1.2%
5-year trend
BRRRR Investment Thesis
Chicago offers big-city rents at Midwest prices, but property taxes are a significant drag on returns. Target south Loop, Logan Square, and Pilsen for the best cap rate dynamics.
How Chicago Compares
| Rank | City | BRRRR Score | Cap Rate | Median Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #34 | Nashville, TN | 4.1 | 5.2% | $400,000 |
| #35 | Phoenix, AZ | 4.1 | 4.9% | $385,000 |
| #36 | Austin, TX | 4.0 | 4.3% | $450,000 |
| #37 | Charleston, SC | 3.9 | 5.0% | $385,000 |
| #38 | Las Vegas, NV | 3.9 | 4.8% | $380,000 |
| #39 | Chicago, IL | 3.9 | 6.0% | $275,000 |
| #40 | Boise, ID | 3.8 | 4.5% | $420,000 |
Showing markets ranked near Chicago for this strategy.
Quick Math: Estimated Annual Return
Based on median market data. Your actual returns will vary based on specific property, financing, and management costs. Always run your own analysis before investing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the brrrr score for Chicago, IL?
Chicago, IL scores 3.9 out of 10 on our brrrr score, ranking #39 out of 52 markets we track. Weighted composite: cap rate (30%), affordable entry price (25%), rent-to-price ratio (25%), population growth (20%). Scale 0–10.
Is Chicago a good city for brrrr investing?
Chicago, IL ranks #39 for brrrr investing with a score of 3.9/10. While not a top-ranked market for this strategy, it may have strengths in other investing approaches.
What is the average cap rate in Chicago?
The average cap rate in Chicago, IL is 6.0%. The median home price is $275,000 with a median monthly rent of $1,600, resulting in a rent-to-price ratio of 0.58%.
What are the property taxes in Chicago?
The effective property tax rate in Chicago, IL is 2.23%. On a $275,000 property, that translates to approximately $6,133 per year in property taxes.
How does Chicago compare to other brrrr markets?
Among our 52 tracked markets, Chicago, IL ranks #39 for brrrr investing. Other markets may be stronger for this particular strategy, though it may excel in different approaches.
What is the typical entry price for BRRRR deals in Chicago?
The median home price in Chicago, IL is $275,000. Distressed BRRRR-eligible properties typically sell for 60-70% of median value, putting estimated acquisition costs around $178,750. After rehab, the goal is to refinance at or near the full $275,000 after-repair value.
Run Your Own Numbers for Chicago
Use our free calculators pre-filled with Chicago, IL market data, or adjust the numbers for your specific deal.
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