Hi u/batyablueberry , Thank you for participating in r/AskChicago . Be sure to check out the /r/Chicago Wiki, which has a lot of useful information for visitors and residents alike, such as: Visitor's Guide Things To Do in Chicago Food & Drink Guide Transportation Overview Public Transit Help Guide Neighborhood Guide Chicago Housing Information Mental Health Resources Preparing for Winter ISP Guide I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns. More on reddit.com

At $150, you are going to have a much easier time looking into a futon instead. Tge great thing about futons is that you can find a frame on FB for dirt cheap, and buy your own mattress for under $100. More on reddit.com

First off, I get your first time living by alone, but in reality it’s insane to say you will find a couch for $80, not what you have above. Second, I’m not downing anyone on buying used furniture, but it’s one of those items I stand on that I wil not ever purchase used. Clothes you can sanitize in the washer, but a couch, who knows what secrets the foam under his hiding. And yes, I stay in hotels and sit on other couches, but your home couch is just that, inside your home. You’re gonna lay, have your face in it, etc. Here is a brand new couch for $149 https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/glostad-loveseat-knisa-dark-gray-70489011/ This one can double as a Futon $139 https://a.co/d/4HCd8Pg More on reddit.com

I know what you said about thrift store couches, but check out Salvation Army thrift on Oakwood. They have a solid selection of furniture including couches. That’s where I got mine for college. It was in great shape and it lasted the whole time at auburn. That’s where I’d start if the Reddit reaps aren’t fruitful today. Good luck! More on reddit.com