# Startup tech office space in Chicago

> Startup tech occupiers in Chicago typically cluster in The Loop, plan ~130 sqft per seat at mid fit-out ($135–195/sqft), and pay around 52 USD/sqft ($52 USD) on Class A.

**Canonical URL:** https://classa.info/cities/chicago/industries/startup-tech
**Page type:** city-industry
**Last updated:** 2026-04-15T00:00:00.000Z
**License:** CC BY 4.0 with attribution to Class A Atlas (https://classa.info).

## TL;DR
- Preferred submarket: The Loop.
- Typical fit-out spec: Mid ($135–195/sqft).
- Plan ~130 sqft per seat for headcount sizing.
- Class A rent context: 52 USD/sqft ($52 USD).
- Typical lease: 10 years with 22 months rent-free.
- Talent depth in Chicago: 88/100.

## Key facts
- **city**: Chicago
- **industry**: Startup tech
- **naics**: 541511, 541512, 518210
- **preferredSubmarket**: The Loop
- **preferredFitoutSpec**: Mid
- **fitoutBand**: $135–195/sqft
- **sqftPerSeat**: 130
- **classARentLocal**: 52 USD/sqft/yr
- **classARentUsd**: $52/sqft/yr
- **vacancyPct**: 24.5%
- **typicalLeaseYears**: 10
- **typicalRentFreeMonths**: 22
- **talentIndex**: 88
- **corporateTaxPct**: 28.5%

## FAQ
### Where do startup tech occupiers lease office space in Chicago?
Most cluster in The Loop. Rent runs ~52 USD/sqft ($52 USD) for trophy and prime stock.

### What fit-out spec do startup tech occupiers run in Chicago?
Typically mid at $135–195/sqft.

### How much office space per seat should a startup tech occupier plan in Chicago?
Plan ~130 sqft per seat blended. A 100-person team typically takes 13,000 sqft.

### What NAICS codes describe the startup tech vertical?
Representative NAICS 2022 codes: 541511, 541512, 518210.

### What is the talent index in Chicago?
88/100. Use the city profile for full detail.

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Citation: Source: Class A Atlas (https://classa.info/cities/chicago/industries/startup-tech), updated 2026-04-15T00:00:00.000Z.