"Originally condos, now Crescent Heights rentals — 30 floors of South Loop value with two rooftop decks."
Ratings Breakdown
Upper Level's exclusive rating for Chicago winter survivability — indoor parking, pedway access, CTA proximity, and wind exposure.
The Rundown
Astoria Tower opened in 2009 as a condominium development — one of the last South Loop condo towers built before the financial crisis. Crescent Heights, the Miami-based developer known for converting and operating luxury rentals, acquired the building and converted it to apartments. The $82.5 million acquisition in 2022 reflected Crescent Heights' confidence in the South Loop rental market.
The building is 30 floors with 207 units — smaller and more intimate than the mega-towers nearby. FitzGerald Associates designed the exterior with a traditional brick-and-glass facade that fits the South Loop's architectural character. The two rooftop decks are the building's signature amenity, offering good views of the lake and the skyline.
As a Crescent Heights property, management is professional and the building is well-maintained. The condo-conversion history means the units have good bones — the original condo finishes were higher quality than typical rental construction. Rents are competitive for the South Loop.
Who Lives Here
Young professionals and couples who want South Loop living at a competitive price. Residents who appreciate the smaller, more intimate building scale compared to 500+ unit towers. People who value the rooftop decks and the building's quieter, residential feel. Those who want the South Loop's value proposition without the transience of larger rental complexes.
The Neighborhood
South Loop — the building is at 9th and State, in a residential pocket of the South Loop. Grant Park and the lakefront are a short walk east. The Roosevelt CTA is nearby. The neighborhood has good bones but still lacks the street-level retail density of the North Side.
What You Get
Elevator Experience
Upper Level Intel
Condo Bones at Rental Prices
Astoria Tower was originally built as condos, which means the unit construction quality is higher than typical rental buildings. Thicker walls, better finishes, and more substantial construction — all at rental prices. A genuine advantage over purpose-built rental towers.
Crescent Heights Acquisition History
Crescent Heights bought the building in 2022 for $82.5M. Post-acquisition, they've invested in the building and maintained it well. But ownership changes always bring uncertainty — understand the management structure before signing a long lease.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
Wins
- ✓Two rooftop decks — good views of lake and skyline
- ✓Condo-conversion quality — better finishes than typical rental construction
- ✓Crescent Heights management — professional and consistent
- ✓207 units — smaller, more intimate building
- ✓Competitive rents for the South Loop
Watch Out
- ✗No pool
- ✗15 years old — some wear in common areas
- ✗No pedway access
- ✗Limited EV charging
- ✗Harrison Red Line is the nearest CTA — less convenient than Loop buildings
The Verdict
Astoria Tower is a solid South Loop rental with condo-quality construction, professional Crescent Heights management, and competitive pricing. The two rooftop decks are a genuine differentiator. Not the flashiest building in the South Loop, but one of the most consistently reliable — a good choice for renters who value quality over amenity excess.
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