Marina City Living: Inside One of the Most Photographed Buildings in the World

Discover the Iconic Marina Towers in Chicago’s River North

Long before I moved to Chicago in 1994, I knew Marina City. These twin towers—also known as the “Corn Cob Towers”—are among the most photographed buildings in the world. Their curved balconies and riverside location have made them a symbol of Chicago architecture and a globally recognized urban landmark.

While I wasn’t introduced to Marina City through Dwell, I was truly inspired by their recent story and photography. This post is my take, rooted in years of walking these streets, working in this market, and admiring this building.

A Modernist Masterpiece with Timeless Appeal

Designed by visionary architect Bertrand Goldberg, Marina City was completed in the 1960s as a self-contained urban experiment. Offices, residences, parking, restaurants, entertainment—it was all here, in a single, curved vertical village. And it still works.

In our recent blog on Living in Smaller Spaces, we explored the shift toward minimalist, intentional urban living. Marina City embodies this lifestyle, where design and location matter more than square footage.

Current Market Data: Marina City Condos for Sale (June 2025)

If you're exploring condos in Marina City (300 N State Street), here’s what the market looks like right now:

• Studios: $165,000 – $240,000

• 1-Bedrooms: $235,000 – $340,000

• 2-Bedrooms: $375,000 – $449,000

• Average Days on Market: 45–60

• Units Currently Available: ~14

These price points make Marina City one of the most accessible entry points into River North's luxury condo scene.

River North Real Estate Market Trends (May 2025)

As highlighted in our 2025 River North Condo Market Report, the area surrounding Marina City remains highly desirable.

• Median Sold Price: $444,266 (+7.5% YoY)

• Median Listing Price: $459,500

• Average Price per Sq Ft: ~$388

• Average Days on Market: 49

• Active Listings in River North: ~240+

River North continues to thrive with strong buyer demand, luxury amenities, and unmatched walkability.

Why Buyers Still Choose Marina City

• Architectural Significance: A designated Chicago landmark and symbol of Mid-Century Modern architecture

• Iconic Design: Distinctive wraparound balconies, river views, and curved living spaces

• Lifestyle Location: Steps from the Chicago Riverwalk, Magnificent Mile, Loop, and world-class dining

• Affordability for the Area: Entry prices below newer construction while retaining high design value

• Enduring Allure: Timeless architecture that continues to attract design-savvy buyers and urban dwellers seeking something different

Final Word: A Living Landmark with Everyday Comfort

Marina City is more than a visual icon—it’s a livable, design-forward community in the heart of Chicago. Whether you’re drawn to its heritage or its investment potential, this is a property that always captures attention, for all the right reasons.

Interested in a private tour or custom CMA?
Let’s connect. I’ll show you what it really means to live inside one of Chicago’s most beloved buildings.

A Note of Appreciation

While this story is based on my connection to Marina City and decades of experience living and working in Chicago, I want to give credit where it’s due. The recent Dwell feature written by Allie Weiss and spotlighting the design work of MAS Studio was a beautifully told narrative that helped reignite conversations about this extraordinary building. Kudos to Iker Gil and the team at MAS Studio for their thoughtful preservation and reinterpretation efforts. Their work does more than honor the past—it gives Marina City fresh relevance in today’s design world. It’s exactly the kind of architectural storytelling and restoration that keeps Chicago’s legacy alive and evolving. If you haven’t seen the Dwell piece, it’s well worth the read.

— Craig Hogan & Rudy Zavala
Hogan Zavala Group | Engel & Völkers Chicago

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