With over 100 neighborhoods in Chicago, it can be difficult to decide which one to settle down in. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, here are some of the best Chicago neighborhoods to live according to an expert Chicago real estate broker.
Old Town
Nestled between the Gold Coast and Lincoln Park is the lively neighborhood of Old Town. Old Town is home to Victorian-era buildings, independently-owned shops, and quaint streets. You will also find the legendary Second City comedy club and renowned Steppenwolf Theater.
Old Town is one of the closest neighborhoods to downtown with friendly neighborhood vibes. Houses have small front lawns, balconies, and old architectural details. If you live in Old Town, you’ll most likely find a favorite coffee shop and frequent a favorite neighborhood bar.
Old Town draws single professionals and many people from the LGBTQ+ community. It is a perfect neighborhood to settle down.
Pros: convenient, close to downtown, shops, restaurants/bars, close to the lake
For more information, click here.
Fulton Market
Former warehousing district, Fulton Market is now the restaurant hub of Chicago. You will find the best restaurants in the city on Fulton Market’s main strip, everything from upscale dining to casual restaurants. Fulton Market has more Michelin award-winning restaurants than any other neighborhood in Chicago. On the weekends, locals explore cute coffee shops, lively breweries, co*cktail lounges, and more — there is always something to do!
Fulton Market is a popular neighborhood for young professionals as many people work in the office buildings nearby. There are over 2,800 private companies and 400 non-profits in Fulton Market. The median age of residents is 30-years-old with over 2,000 households of 2 or fewer people.
Pros: near downtown, food scene, things to do
West Loop
The West Loop is a restaurant hotspot filled with pubs, bars, and live music venues — also known as “the foodie mecca.” It is right next door to Fulton Market and is quite similar in urban-life culture. West Loop is home to Greek Town. Greek Town is filled with traditional pastry shops, Greek restaurants, and lively tavernas. Every April there is a Greek parade to celebrate Greek Independence Day.
You will find mostly luxury apartments. It is the perfect neighborhood for foodies and young professionals working in the tech industry.
Pros: quick access to the freeway, great restaurant scene, close to downtown
For more information on West Loop, click here!
Wicker Park
Wicker Park is considered one of the hippest neighborhoods in Chicago. Over the past decade, Wicker Park has become a favorite destination for chic diners and shoppers. It is known as the Chicago entertainment hub filled with restaurants, wine bars, lounges, and speakeasies. You will find amazing cuisine from all over the world.
Wicker Park is home to artists and a diverse group of residents. There are many condos, townhomes, and period homes for those looking to purchase a home.
Pros: art scene, shopping, music hub, diverse neighborhood
For a guide to Wicker Park, click here!
Bucktown
Bucktown, aka “Little Poland,” is next to Wicker Park and Logan Square, two popular Chicago neighborhoods. Bucktown is similar to Wicker Park, but you will find more cottage-style homes in Bucktown. Bucktown has become a haven for artists and musicians looking for affordable housing.
Bucktown is close to downtown, right off the Blue Line and short bus ride leading to downtown. It has easy to access other neighborhoods.
One of the best features of Bucktown (and Wicker Park) is the 606 trail, a 3-mile green space perfect for walking, running, or biking.
Pros: great food, parks, the arts
Lincoln Square
Lincoln Square is an old German neighborhood and still preserves its European flair. You will find Old World-style restaurants, outdoor cafes, and shops. Lincoln Square also offers a wide variety of cuisine from around the world. You can find Asian eateries and neighborhood grocery stores that stock Baltic, Mediterranean, Slavic, and Mexican specialties.
Lincoln Square is home to festivals all-year long like its German Octoberfest & Maifest, Apple Fest, Square Roots and more!
Lincoln Square attracts families and young professionals living in wood-frame Victorians, graystone mansions, and single-family bungalows.
Pros: beautiful architecture, family-friendly, diverse restaurants, events & festivals
Ravenswood
The Ravenswood neighborhood is filled with vintage buildings and multi-unit apartment complexes, popular among small families and young couples. Court-yard style buildings are prevalent along with single-family homes.
Ravenswood is a perfect neighborhood for leisurely walks. The streets are lined with trees and safe for casual strolls.
Known to Chicagoans as “Malt Row” the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor and surrounding area has earned its reputation as “Chicago most diverse beer destination.”
While there is plenty to do and restaurants to explore, Ravenswood does not have a lively nightlife compared to neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wrigleyville. Luckily, Chicago has amazing transportation, and neighborhoods are easily accessible using the CTA.
Pros: relaxed culture, local shops and restaurants, family-friendly
For a deeper dive into Ravenswood, click here.
Andersonville
Andersonville is an old Swedish neighborhood on the north side of the city. Clark Street, Andersonville’s main channel, is lined with independently-owned shops, bakeries, lively restaurants, and more.
Housing consists primarily of large single-family homes and stylish three-flats. Andersonville tends to be less expensive compared to other better-known areas in the city.
Chicago’s largest gay and lesbian population thrives in Andersonville and there are many bars and shops that cater to the LGBTQ+ community.
One of the best parts of Andersonville is its weekly farmer’s market and annual festivals. There is always something to do on the weekends in Andersonville.
Pros: affordable, restaurants and things to do
What’s your favorite Chicago neighborhood? Are you moving to Chicago this year? *comment below*
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