Like someone mentioned, the crop is real but Canon RF 50mm f1.8 STM is amazing! Love it for bokeh and honestly it keeps you way under budget!

tbh the Canon RF 50mm f1.8 STM is such a steal but you really gotta be careful with that crop factor on the R50. It basically turns into an 80mm lens which might be way too tight for Chicago street stuff... i'd be worried about you missing the shot because you're too zoomed in and having to step into the street just to fit a building in. If you can somehow swing the extra cash, i would suggest looking at the Canon RF 28mm f2.8 STM Pancake instead. It is much more versatile for city life even if it isnt as fast for that blurry look you wanted. Just make sure to check the prices though because it might push past your $250 limit depending on where you shop. Its a safer bet for a general travel lens and keeps your setup tiny. Just something to keep in mind before you commit to the 50mm.

Jumping in here because I had this exact dilemma when I first got my current camera. I went with the wider option and im honestly so satisfied with how it handled busy city streets.

• Wider focal lengths provide a more natural perspective for architecture
• They offer a great alternative when you couldnt back up any further
• Depth of field is easily managed by adjusting your physical distance to the subject