2021 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Chicago

Printers Row

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 5 out of 5  10 reviews

Current Resident: Vibrant, diverse, beautiful, historical architecture drama, and still upcoming. Even with its density, there's still a sense of community in Printers Row. Its history is steeped in intellectualism. Heaven for dogs and kids and dog and kid parents - there are intimate parks and proximity to The Lake. One can sometimes forget that they're in the city, and then look up and find themselves mesmerized by the architecture. Totally convenient, the transportation are plentiful: the L, Metra, Union Station, bike rentals, or better, hoof it. The adjacent colleges and prestigious public schools add to the intellectual urbanity. Strength is in numbers, and numbers in the community increase safety. There are restaurant's, but the scene will inevitably shift Southward. We've lived around the world, and I feel so fortunate to live here. (Technically, Printers Row is the area bordered by Ida B. Wells to the north, Polk to the South, LaSalle to the west, and State on the east.)...Read 10 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 9,209 Population

Greektown

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL

• grade A+

• grade B minus

• 6,634 Population

West Loop

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.77 out of 5  13 reviews

Current Resident: West Loop is an up and coming Chicago neighborhood, located just across the river from the central Loop. It has great dining and night life options, with more being added all the time. Apartments / housing is expensive but good deals can still be found in the surrounding neighborhoods. The vibe of West Loop housing is the "loft" style - exposed brick, timber, and warehouse elements - due to the industrial past of the neighborhood...Read 13 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 35,215 Population

Loop

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 3.78 out of 5  58 reviews

Current Resident: There's always something to do once you step out of your place. From great museums, theater, night light, restaurants. I particularly loving walking on the Riverwalk and taking in the beautiful sights and architecture this city has to offer!...Read 58 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 35,351 Population

River North

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 3.79 out of 5  34 reviews

Current Resident: The neighborhood is very centralized in Chicago, about a 10 minutes walk to the loop, and public transportation is close by and accessible. The area is overall pretty safe because it is a slightly more wealthy area...Read 34 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 37,832 Population

Gold Coast

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.5 out of 5  14 reviews

Current Resident: I love living downtown but the diversity and real estate accessibility is obviously pretty limited. I've attended public schools locally in Lincoln Park my entire life, which is close by to Gold Coast, but even so, the diversity and integration of multiple cultures is limited due to the fact that there is a lot of deeply rooted segregation in Chicago as well as rapidly occurring gentrification in my many neighborhoods aside from Gold Coast. I have been fortunate enough to live in a safe area with a lot of things to do, such as easy beach access, conveniently located stores, and generally a lively environment. I live across the street from and my window overlooks a park so I've always enjoyed the physical environment I am surrounded by. Additionally, I have 3 train lines all in quick walking distance from me so I've found commuting to be very easy in my neighborhood...Read 14 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 17,448 Population

Streeterville

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.33 out of 5  12 reviews

Current Resident: I love it! Not a lot of high schools in the neighborhood, though. There are a lot of great food options and places to live, I am very happy with all of these!Read 12 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 27,179 Population

Near South Side

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4 out of 5  12 reviews

Current Resident: We live here and we love it! It’s part of downtown but without the heavy tourism. Easy access to the lake, three train lines and many bus routes. Fast travel to both airports as well! Great options for entertainment, shopping and proximity to diverse neighborhoods with excellent food. It’s also very safe!...Read 12 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 24,729 Population

Lake View

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 3.81 out of 5  120 reviews

Current Resident: Lakeview is somewhere I haven't been able to move away from since I moved to Chicago. It's a lovely mix of suburban/urban with tree-lined streets, boutique/chain shops, fantastic dining options, and easy access to public transit. One of my favorite things is not being too far from the lakefront and constantly take advantage of the lakefront path during the warmer months. This area of the city is perfect for young professionals, families, and students alike. The commute downtown is around 30 minutes and the L stations are not too far apart. I'd highly recommend this area to anyone searching for a friendly, picturesque neighborhood in Chicago...Read 120 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 92,594 Population

Lincoln Park

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.36 out of 5  78 reviews

Current Resident: I am at the perfect distance of big city and residential living with urban vibes. Local restaurants and boutiques are bountiful, and there is always some cozy cafe or bar popping up. Nightlife exists, but it is never so loud or dangerous (or barf covered). Parking can be a challenge, but if you are here long enough, you will learn the tricks. There is greenery, trails, and the lakefront which are wonderful! Very commuter friendly, by public transportation or foot (or bike!), probably more so than by personal vehicle. You are a mere 30 minutes or less from anything you could imagine, whether that be theater, comedy, athletics, sports, zoo, museums, or any other historical memorabilia. People are generally friendly, and you could ask the nearest pass-byer for directions just about anywhere. Markets and stores do exist, and you will pay a slightly higher price for your everyday items. As long as I am living in Chicago, I do not want to leave the Lincoln park area...Read 78 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 47,530 Population

West Town

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 3.92 out of 5  25 reviews

Current Resident: Love this area! Super classy yet artistic at the same time. This neighborhood is quiet but close to everything you need, such as restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores and walking distance to river west/river north. Such a neighborhood feel to it...Read 25 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 30,368 Population

Boystown

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.4 out of 5  10 reviews

Current Resident: I love living in boystown! I am a young professional, moved to the neighborhood about a year ago. I cannot speak to the real estate market or the quality of schools at this time, as I do not have children and am not looking to buy. However, I find my rent is very affordable, I love the neighborhood, there is lots to do, and many grocery stores, gyms, etc nearby! I have found it to be extremely safe, and there seems to be a fair amount of local businesses hiring in the neighborhood (though I will admit that I do not work in boystown). In terms of working elsewhere and commuting, its the best! There are so many buses (some running express downtown) and it is very close to both the Addison and the Belmont stops on the El...Read 10 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 5,572 Population

North Center

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.15 out of 5  34 reviews

Current Resident: Fantastic family neighborhood with great access to parks and a wealth of local stores and restaurants. Good transportation links to the Loop (Brown line takes around 30mins) and close enough to the lake to make summer beach days easy. Lovely tree lined streets. Not the most diverse area demographically and that's also reflected in the housing stock (or caused by it) - few apartment buildings and lots of expensive single family homes. Public schools are excellent at elementary level and there's a great sense of community...Read 34 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 35,543 Population

Andersonville

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.71 out of 5  24 reviews

Current Resident: We love living here. Andersonville is great, especially if you are starting a family or are looking for a slower paced city life. There is enough stuff to do, good restaurants, and its a super safe neighborhood. I love all the antique shops. The antique shops are actually the main reason I wanted to live in this neighborhood. ...It can feel a little suffocating though. Before moving here we lived in both Old Town and Printers Row. There is obviously much more to do in the downtown areas. It's a chore (about 45+ minutes) to get downtown. If any of your friends/dates live in the city, there is not much chance of them coming to visit. It can be pretty isolating. ...The biggest shock for me was the lack of dog parks. I would have never thought that downtown would have had more available dog parks per square mile than up here. Either way, you'll like living here. It's beautiful and quiet, just be prepared for feeling a little out of the loop.Read 24 Reviews

• grade A+

• grade C+

• 7,295 Population

Old Town

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.43 out of 5  30 reviews

Current Resident: The neighborhood is absolutely beautiful and very central to the city and the lake. It is incredibly safe and has one of the lowest crime rates in the city. Its parks and play areas are very well kept up. This neighborhood is perfect for families and older people. The housing prices and rents tend to be fairly high, especially in the historical districts, and depending on where you live there may be very little night life to explore. The neighborhood is, however, populated with great small businesses, has a fantastic sense of community, and is ideal for children...Read 30 Reviews

• grade A

• grade C+

• 29,358 Population

Hyde Park

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.04 out of 5  106 reviews

Current Resident: Hyde Park has exponentially grown over the past 15 years. With an official downtown, the neighborhood boasts a variety of global cuisine including a Michelin Star award recipient and a James Beard nominee. With a variety of housing options and parks the neighborhood is family friendly. It is protected by the University of Chicago police and the Chicago Police Department. Although there is a great public high school option-Kenwood Academy- the primary school options are average at best. It is short 15 minute drive to downtown or 35 minute ride on public transportation. Several bus lines run through the neighborhood and the 'L' is just a quick bus ride away. With close proximity to the lake and the coveted Promitory Point, the neighborhood offers the perks of city life and the get away of a lake front retreat...Read 106 Reviews

• grade A

• grade B minus

• 27,482 Population

Wrigleyville

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.67 out of 5  9 reviews

Current Resident: It’s a beautifully built and updated area. It’s appeal is extremely versatile as you see families, young couples, college students, and young professionals living there and enjoying the opportunity to take all the sights in...Read 9 Reviews

• grade A

• grade C+

• 7,316 Population

Bucktown

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 3.88 out of 5  24 reviews

Current Resident: Great hood, if expensive. My wife and I have lived here since '96. Lots of great old homes, lots of fancy new ones. You can walk to everything. There must be fifty restaurants within hoofing distance. And there's a surprising number of young families here despite the high priced real estate...The only downside is the high cost of living, fueled by high property taxes and a city and county government rife with corruption and incompetence.Read 24 Reviews

• grade A

• grade C+

• 13,302 Population

Wicker Park

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 3.97 out of 5  58 reviews

Current Resident: During the time that I have lived in Wicker Park, I have always felt a sense of belonging. When I walk out the door, I am always anticipating the type of interactions that I will have with neighbors around me and visitors passing through. I have had the opportunity to walk through this area with having over a foot of snow outside. I hope once the vaccine is more widely available, I can explore the rest of the options that the community offers within this great city. I also hope to be more involved in community initiatives and programs surrounding me to help better the area...Read 58 Reviews

• grade A

• grade C+

• 23,783 Population

Lincoln Square

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 3.99 out of 5  69 reviews

Current Resident: I moved to Lincoln Square 25 years ago and have never left! It's the best neighborhood in Chicago. Plenty of events to attend, easy commute, and very family friendly.Read 69 Reviews

• grade A

• grade C+

• 42,103 Population

Rush & Division

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 3.33 out of 5  3 reviews

Parent: I could very well never leave this area. Convenience is everything to me and you can get to any service needed with in a 1 mile radius. Clean and well maintained.Read 3 Reviews

• grade A

• grade C+

• 17,954 Population

Ukrainian Village

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 4.24 out of 5  21 reviews

Current Resident: This neighborhood is great. Its diverse, with individuals of all ethnic backgrounds in all corners of the neighborhood. Having lived in various other neighborhoods of Chicago, I always enjoy living here due to the safety I feel in the area. I also truly appreciate the the distance to grocery stores, restaurants, churches, and parks in the area. It is truly a neighborhood where you do not need to venture out for anything. Everything is here and in walking distance!...Read 21 Reviews

• grade A

• grade C+

• 11,294 Population

East Village

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Former Resident: I love the East Village!!!! This neighborhood has a very real urban atmosphere and has awesome restaurants and shopping nearby. The neighborhood has a great location within the city and is very close to lots of iconic places...Read 1 Review

• grade A

• grade C+

• 7,525 Population

Magnificent Mile

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL

• grade A

• grade C+

• 2,043 Population

Edgewater

• Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
• Rating 3.81 out of 5  157 reviews

Current Resident: The thing to know about Edgewater is that you can find almost anything here from a housing perspective. There are apartments that rent for about $1,000, homes that cost $1,500,000+ and there is everything from high-rises to single family homes. The rule of thumb is the closer to the lake, the more dense. Transit is very good and you can drive downtown in 20 minutes or less outside of rush hours. There are a ton or restaurants, bars and stores. Grocery shopping here is not a hassle and there are even a number of good hardware stores! I moved up here from Lakeview in 1999 buying a townhouse on the park. Wanted a single family home with a yard so bought one in 2014. Really liked the townhouse but love the house. The neighborhood is fantastic. A true neighborhood. People are very friendly without being too involved in your private life. My neighborhood looks like a small town yet is only three blocks from the EL. My block is very wealthy but not showy. Highly recommend...Read 157 Reviews

• grade A

• grade C+

• 54,523 Population