The number of self-employed workers is growing and giving rise to the freelance economy, also known as the gig economy to those who prefer the shorter, buzzier term.

Some freelancers like the comforts (and non-existent commute) that come with a home office, while others need the motivation (as well as the separation of the professional and private) of leaving the house behind for work. Coworking spaces offer freelancers a place to focus on their projects with the added benefit of potential networking.

If you are looking for coworking space in Chicago or another spot to open up your laptop and get to work, these neighborhoods are a good place to start your search.

People work on computers in a coffee shop
Coffee shops offer a great space for freelancers to work.

Bronzeville

Just south of the city’s downtown center, Bronzeville is home to both historic architecture and newer condos. The blend of the new and the old attracts both young professionals and families. Freelancers have their pick of a coworking space or public library, as well as some coffee shops.

Spots to Check Out:

  • The Bronzeville Incubator: The Bronzeville Incubator caters to all kinds of self-employed people. The solo worker who just needs an occasional spot to work outside of the home can opt for the “Hustler” membership package. The more involved memberships offer access to workshops, classes, and events.
  • Hall Branch library: Public libraries are a freelancer’s best friend. If you don’t want the added expense of a coworking space or coffee shop snacks, you can spend your time working at the library for no charge. The Hall Branch of the Chicago Public Library is located within walking distance of the CTA’s 47th Green Line station.
  • Sip & Savor: Freelancers who like a steady stream of caffeine throughout their workday can take their laptop to this community-focused coffee shop. The large drink menu—augmented by sweets, soups, and breakfast treats—will keep you fueled up during the workday.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is home to DePaul University, Lincoln Park Zoo, and a beautiful stretch of lakefront. In addition to picturesque brownstones and a bountiful selection of restaurants, freelancers have access to quite a few options for working outside of the home.

Spots to Check Out:

  • Citygirl at Work: Citygirl at Work, a coworking space for women, offers monthly memberships at varying levels and day passes for those who want a desk on occasion. Resources for members include Wi-Fi, coffee, snacks, and access to various events.
  • Colectivo Coffee: Colectivo Coffee has several locations throughout Chicago. The Lincoln Park outpost is a strong contender for freelancers who love the idea of working outdoors. This coffee shop has a large patio, complete with some heating for chillier temperatures. For Friday and weekend work sessions (or any more relaxed time, after all, you are the boss), you can even order a beer.
  • Lincoln Park library: The Lincoln Park Branch of the Chicago Public Library is easily accessible from the Fullerton Brown, Purple, and Red Line station. Cyclists can make use of the library’s bike rack. Inside, you’ll find places to sit, Wi-Fi, printers, a scanner, and a meeting room.
  • Next Door Chicago: Next Door Chicago is a community space with a focus on financial planning. You can sign up for coaching sessions, classes, and use the space inside. Next Door Chicago, a free resource, can help freelancers better hone their skills in areas like business planning, budgeting, and more.

Logan Square

Logan Square has a vibe that attracts all different kinds of people, from families and downtown commuters to artists and musicians. One of the neighborhood’s biggest attractions is its plethora of coffee shops, which makes it a freelancer magnet.

Spots to Check Out:

  • The Logan Share: Freelancers can access the Logan Share coworking space 24/7 with a personal key fob, a big selling point for people with unconventional working hours. This space comes with a whole host of amenities, including private phone booths, a conference room, and even showers.
  • Gaslight Coffee Roasters: Gaslight Coffee Roasters is one of many cafes in the neighborhood, and it does not disappoint as a working space. You can post up at the bar or at one of the tables that line the shop’s large windows. People with headphones and laptops are a common sight at Gaslight.
  • Passion House Coffee Roasters: Passion House is right across the street from the Logan Square Blue Line stop, making it a convenient go-to for commuters. Opening at 7 a.m. on weekdays, you can get an early start to your day with coffee and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Logan Square library: Freelancers can bring their laptops to the Logan Square Branch of the city’s public library system for a free, quiet spot to get some work done. If you drive, this library has a parking lot, so you don’t have to worry about street parking.

The Loop

The Loop is Chicago’s central downtown neighborhood and the city’s business hub. During the week, office workers pour in from trains and buses to reach office buildings in the Loop. But, you don’t have to be an employee to work in this neighborhood.

Spots to Check Out:

  • Harold Washington Library: Arguably one of the most striking branches of the Chicago Public Library, Harold Washington is a multi-story library with plenty of nooks to set up your laptop and access to rooms for private event rental.
  • Industrious Central Loop: Industrious is a country-wide coworking space with locations in a long list of major cities. Solo freelancers can make use of the community membership option for a desk or private office, while entrepreneurs with growing teams can look into renting office and suite space.
  • MakeOffices: MakeOffices is right on State Street in the Loop, giving it an enviable location right next to Millennium Park. Freelancers can try out a day pass for just $35, or explore the membership options that range from a single desk to multi-person offices.
  • Serendipity Labs: Serendipity Labs focuses on customizable coworking spaces and has a “hospitality staff” to help create your ideal environment. The space’s location on Wacker gives you easy access to multiple transportation hubs, including Union Station, Ogilvie, and several downtown CTA stops.

East Garfield Park

East Garfield Park is most often associated with the bountiful green space of Garfield Park Conservatory, but this West Side neighborhood has a major resource for ambitious entrepreneurs.

Spots to Check Out:

  • The Hatchery: Not all freelance businesses are run from solely behind a computer. Entrepreneurs looking to launch a business in the food and drink space will find kitchen space, coworking space, and plenty of resources at the recently developed Hatchery.