The fire started just after 2 a.m. and was confined to a unit on the top floor of a three-story complex.
The building has 24 apartments. Approximately 50 residents have been displaced.
Fire crews rescued five people. However, there are no reports of any injuries.
Firefighters from several neighboring suburbs were on the scene.
There was no official word on a cause, but fire officials say a grill on a balcony might have started the fire.
The Red Cross of Greater Chicago is providing emergency relief to the residents.
