Evanston police said the attack happened around 12:50 a.m. in the 1000-block of Dobson Avenue.
A man approached a 27-year-old woman and pushed her to the ground, police said. The suspect choked the woman and tried to take off her clothes.
Police said the woman fought the attacker off and a neighbor responded after hearing her screams.
The Evanston Fire Department treated the victim, who suffered minor injuries.
The suspect fled eastbound toward Ridge Avenue.
He is described as a thin male with longer, curly dark hair. He wore a white hoodie, a blue shirt, gray pants, and black shoes.
The Evanston police are investigating and asked anyone with information to contact them at 847-866-5000 or Text-A-Tip to CRIMES (274637) and then start your message with "EPDTIP."