"Equity Residential's River North mid-rise — reliable, central, and no-frills."
Ratings Breakdown
Upper Level's exclusive rating for Chicago winter survivability — indoor parking, pedway access, CTA proximity, and wind exposure.
The Rundown
State and Grand is a 26-story Equity Residential rental at the corner of State and Grand in River North — directly above the Grand Red Line stop. The location is arguably the best in the building's price range: you're steps from the CTA, walkable to the Loop, River North dining, and the Magnificent Mile.
The building itself is functional rather than flashy. Amenities are adequate but not exceptional. Equity Residential manages it professionally — maintenance is responsive and the building is well-kept. Units are standard mid-rise layouts with decent finishes.
Who Lives Here
Loop workers, young professionals, and people who prioritize transit access above everything else. The Grand Red Line stop directly below is the main draw.
The Neighborhood
Sitting directly above the Grand Red Line stop is a genuine advantage. You're a 10-minute train ride from the Loop and a short walk from dozens of River North restaurants and bars. State Street has some retail but the real action is a few blocks west on Clark and Wells.
What You Get
Elevator Experience
Upper Level Intel
Best Transit Access in River North
The Grand Red Line stop is directly below the building. For Loop commuters, this is genuinely unbeatable — no weather exposure, no walking. It's the building's single biggest selling point.
Street Noise on Lower Floors
State and Grand is a busy intersection. Units on floors 1–8 facing State Street get significant street noise. Ask for upper floors or interior-facing units if noise is a concern.
Equity Residential Perks
As an Equity Residential property, you can transfer your lease to other EQR buildings if you relocate. Useful if you're not sure how long you'll stay in Chicago.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
Wins
- ✓Grand Red Line stop is literally downstairs
- ✓Equity Residential management is reliable
- ✓Walkable to Loop, River North, and Mag Mile
- ✓Well-maintained common areas
Watch Out
- ✗Amenities are basic compared to newer buildings
- ✗State Street can be noisy on lower floors
- ✗Views are limited below floor 15
- ✗Parking is expensive
The Verdict
State and Grand is a reliable, well-managed rental in one of Chicago's best transit locations. It's not the most exciting building, but Equity Residential runs it professionally and the Grand Red Line stop downstairs is hard to beat. Good for Loop commuters who want River North proximity.
Getting Out of Chicago
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