Best Places To Live In Chicago
Looking for the best places to live in Chicago? Look no further! With its vibrant neighborhoods and diverse amenities, Chicago offers something for everyone.
Did you know that the West Loop has an average monthly rent of $2,620 and a median home sale price of $438,000? Or that Wicker Park combines urban amenities with green spaces, with an average monthly rent of $2,570 and a median home sale price of $662,500?
In this article, we’ll explore the top neighborhoods in Chicago that are perfect for living your best life.
Andersonville
If you’re looking for a neighborhood with a unique character and a strong sense of community, Andersonville is worth considering. Known for its vibrant local art scene and LGBTQ+ community events, this North Side enclave offers a welcoming atmosphere for all.
When it comes to dining out, Andersonville boasts some of the best brunch spots in the city, with popular options like m. henry and Big Jones serving up delicious fare. The neighborhood also hosts an annual summer festival, Midsommarfest, which celebrates the area’s Swedish heritage and attracts visitors from all over Chicago.
In addition to its cultural offerings, Andersonville is home to a variety of independent shops and boutiques that cater to eclectic tastes. With its diverse population and tight-knit community feel, Andersonville truly stands out as one of the best places to live in Chicago.
- Average monthly rent: $1,900 – $2,500
- Median home sale price: $550,000 – $700,000
Logan Square
When you’re considering neighborhoods in Chicago, Logan Square offers a vibrant community with trendy restaurants, vintage shops, and access to the beautiful 606 trail.
Known for its diverse population and artistic atmosphere, Logan Square is an attractive option for those seeking affordable housing options in the city.
The neighborhood is home to a variety of local businesses, including cozy cafes, unique boutiques, and thriving art galleries.
Residents can also enjoy a range of community events throughout the year, such as farmer’s markets and street festivals that showcase the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage.
With its convenient location near Wicker Park and Bucktown, Logan Square provides easy access to even more dining and entertainment options.
Overall, this dynamic neighborhood offers a lively atmosphere combined with affordable living opportunities.
- Average monthly rent: $1,600 – $2,200
- Median home sale price: $500,000 – $650,000
Pilsen
Pilsen, known for its vibrant art scene and rich Mexican heritage, offers a diverse community with an array of cultural events and authentic cuisine.
The neighborhood is home to numerous art galleries, showcasing the works of local artists as well as hosting regular exhibitions and events. Pilsen’s streets are adorned with colorful murals that reflect the neighborhood’s strong artistic spirit.
When it comes to food, Pilsen is a haven for Mexican cuisine enthusiasts. From traditional taquerias to upscale restaurants serving innovative dishes, there is something for everyone’s taste buds.
Additionally, Pilsen has a strong sense of community activism. Residents actively engage in various initiatives aimed at preserving the neighborhood’s unique character and promoting social justice causes.
With its thriving art scene, delicious food options, and passionate community activism, Pilsen truly stands out as one of Chicago’s best places to live.
- Average monthly rent: $1,200 – $1,800
- Median home sale price: $375,000 – $500,000-
Ukrainian Village
Located northwest of downtown, Ukrainian Village is a vibrant neighborhood known for its historic charm and thriving local businesses.
Cultural heritage is deeply rooted in the area, with a rich Ukrainian history that can be seen through its traditional architecture and cultural landmarks. The streets are lined with beautiful historic homes, featuring intricate details and unique designs that tell a story of the past.
In addition to its historical architecture, Ukrainian Village boasts a lively community spirit, hosting vibrant events throughout the year. From street festivals celebrating Ukrainian culture to art walks showcasing local talent, there is always something exciting happening in this neighborhood.
Whether you’re exploring the quaint shops or indulging in authentic cuisine, Ukrainian Village offers an immersive experience that captures the essence of its cultural heritage and fosters a strong sense of community.
- Average monthly rent: $1,500 – $2,000
- Median home sale price: $525,000 – $700,000
River North
River North is a bustling neighborhood in downtown Chicago known for its vibrant art scene and trendy nightlife. It is considered one of the best places to live in Chicago if you’re looking for an exciting social scene.
The area is filled with numerous bars, clubs, and lounges that offer some of the city’s best nightlife experiences. Additionally, River North is home to many cultural attractions, including galleries, theaters, and museums, making it a haven for art enthusiasts.
The neighborhood’s art scene thrives with its numerous art studios and galleries showcasing various forms of contemporary artwork. Whether you’re visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art or exploring the local street art, River North offers a rich cultural experience for residents and visitors alike.
- Average monthly rent: $2,500 – $3,500
- Median home sale price: $600,000 – $800,000
Avondale
Avondale, a neighborhood in Chicago, is known for its eclectic mix of businesses and welcoming atmosphere. It appeals to families, twenty-somethings, and working-class residents. This vibrant community offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences.
Avondale is home to an array of family-friendly amenities, including parks, playgrounds, and schools. The neighborhood also boasts a wide range of eclectic local businesses that add character to the area. From a horror-themed coffee shop to an insect museum, there’s something for everyone here.
One of the standout features of Avondale is its strong community preservation efforts. Local organizations are dedicated to preserving the neighborhood’s historic charm while embracing new developments.
With its affordable housing options and diverse population, Avondale provides a welcoming environment for people from all walks of life.
- Average monthly rent: $1,500 – $2,000
- Median home sale price: $450,000 – $600,000
Northalsted
Northalsted, also known as Boystown, is a vibrant and inclusive neighborhood in Chicago that offers a diverse range of entertainment options for residents and visitors alike.
- LGBTQ+ community in Northalsted: With its rich history as the first recognized gay village in the United States, Northalsted is a welcoming haven for the LGBTQ+ community. Pride Month celebrations and events like the annual Chicago Pride Parade attract people from all over.
- Nightlife and entertainment in Northalsted: The neighborhood boasts an exciting nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues. From drag shows to dance parties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
- Historical landmarks and culture in Northalsted: The Legacy Walk features bronze plaques commemorating important LGBTQ+ figures throughout history. Additionally, the Center on Halsted serves as a hub for cultural events, support services, and resources.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in LGBTQ+ culture or simply experience lively entertainment options, Northalsted has it all.
- Average monthly rent: $1,500 – $2,200
- Median home sale price: $400,000 – $550,000
The Loop
Located in downtown Chicago, The Loop is the city’s central business district and a hub for cultural attractions and iconic landmarks. The Loop has experienced significant development in recent years, with new high-rise buildings and renovations transforming the area.
It offers a variety of transportation options, including multiple CTA train lines and bus routes that make it easy to navigate the city. The entertainment scene in The Loop is vibrant, with theaters showcasing Broadway shows, live music venues hosting concerts, and art galleries featuring contemporary works.
Millennium Park is a popular destination within The Loop, offering outdoor concerts, art installations, and beautiful green spaces. With its mix of business opportunities, cultural experiences, and convenient transportation options, The Loop is an attractive place to live for those looking to be at the heart of everything Chicago has to offer.
- Average monthly rent: $2,200 – $3,000
- Median home sale price: $550,000 – $750,000
West Loop
The West Loop is a hotspot for modern eateries and high-rise condo buildings, with its former meatpacking district charm and rapid development. The neighborhood has seen significant gentrification over the years, leading to an increase in average monthly rent prices and median home sale prices. This transformation has attracted a diverse range of residents, including young professionals and families seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle.
The West Loop boasts a thriving nightlife and entertainment scene, especially along Restaurant Row on Randolph Street. Here, you’ll find an array of trendy bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live performances or dance the night away, this neighborhood offers something for everyone.
In terms of transportation accessibility, the West Loop benefits from its central location in Chicago. It is well-served by public transportation options like buses and trains, making it easy to commute to other parts of the city. Additionally, with its proximity to major highways and thoroughfares, residents have convenient access to suburban areas as well.
Overall, the West Loop’s combination of historical charm and modern amenities make it one of the best places to live in Chicago.
- Average monthly rent: $2,500 – $3,500
- Median home sale price: $600,000 – $800,000
Wicker Park
To experience the vibrant atmosphere of Wicker Park, you’ll find cafes, taprooms, and vintage boutiques lining the streets. This neighborhood is known for its thriving art scene and offers a variety of nightlife options.
When it comes to coffee shops, The Wormhole stands out as a popular spot that not only serves great coffee but also offers a nostalgic 80s vibe.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the local art scene, there are numerous galleries showcasing works from both established and emerging artists.
As for nightlife, Emporium arcade bar provides a unique experience with its throwback vibes and wide selection of arcade games.
Whether you’re seeking caffeine or culture, Wicker Park has something to offer for everyone looking to enjoy the best of Chicago’s coffee shops, art scene, and nightlife options.
- Average monthly rent: $1,800 – $2,500
- Median home sale price: $550,000 – $700,000
Old Town
Now that you’ve had a taste of the vibrant energy in Wicker Park, it’s time to venture into another charming neighborhood – Old Town. Known for its historical charm and thriving comedy scene, Old Town offers a unique experience for residents and visitors alike.
Here are some hidden gems you can discover in Old Town:
- Second City improv comedy club: As the birthplace of many famous comedians, this iconic venue showcases top-notch comedic talent.
- Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan: Enjoy quick access to these picturesque locations, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Lovely green spaces: Take a stroll through quiet residential streets adorned with beautiful parks and gardens.
- Zanies Comedy Night Club: Catch hilarious shows at this intimate venue that has been entertaining audiences since 1978.
- Historical charm: Explore the neighborhood’s rich history through its well-preserved architecture and landmarks.
Immerse yourself in Old Town’s comedy scene and embrace its historical allure while enjoying all the amenities this vibrant neighborhood has to offer.
- Average monthly rent: $2,000 – $2,800
- Median home sale price: $600,000 – $800,000
FAQs
What are some unique attractions or points of interest in Andersonville?
Andersonville is known for its unique attractions and points of interest. You can explore upcoming events, historical landmarks, and local businesses. It offers a vibrant community with something for everyone to enjoy.
What is the demographic makeup of Logan Square?
Logan Square is a vibrant neighborhood known for its diversity and community spirit. With a population of around 73,000, it is a melting pot of different cultures and backgrounds. The neighborhood boasts a rich history and is home to a variety of ethnic restaurants, art galleries, and music venues.
Are there any notable cultural events or festivals held in Pilsen?
Pilsen hosts several notable cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Pilsen Cultural Events, Pilsen Fest, and Fiesta del Sol. These community celebrations showcase local art, music, food, and the vibrant culture of the neighborhood.
What are the top dining options in Ukrainian Village?
For the best Ukrainian dining experience in Ukrainian Village, try places like Tryzub Restaurant and Old Lviv. Must-try dishes include pierogies, borscht, and varenyky. Don’t miss hidden gems like Podhalanka for authentic Polish-Ukrainian cuisine.
What are some popular nightlife spots in River North?
Popular clubs, rooftop bars, and live music venues make River North a buzzing nightlife destination. From the energetic beats at Sound-Bar to the stunning views of Cindy’s Rooftop, there’s something for everyone to dance, drink, and enjoy the vibrant scene.