Like the housing market, apartment rental prospects have transformed in recent years. Our expectations and desires have shifted, with renters searching for more space — often at a higher price tag. And, according to a new study from RentCafe, that’s especially tough in Chicago.

Of the 100 largest cities in the U.S., Chicago ranked at No. 85 when it came to affordable space. A monthly budget of $1,500, on average, affords just a 540-square-foot apartment in the Windy City.

However, certain areas within the Chicago metro offer less expensive alternatives. Namely, the suburbs. The suburbs in Illinois which can provide the most living space for $1,500 are DeKalb (1,312 square feet), Waukegan (1,154 square feet), West Chicago (1,059 square feet) and Alsip (1,049 square feet).

via RentCafe

In general, if you want the biggest bang for your buck, don’t give up on the Midwest. According to RentCafe, the least expensive rentals are clustered in that region with Wichita, Kansas leading the pack. There, $1,500 can get you a 1,597-square-foot apartment.