2018 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County, IL

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Health & Outdoors

West Ridge
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
89
1 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I have lived in west ridge for almost a year now and it’s a very nice and diverse neighborhood. It is right next to Roger’s Park which is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Chicago. It seems like a very family friendly neighborhood and also is easily accessible to CTA buses. It’s also very close to the northern suburbs of Chicago, so you have the best of both worlds of living in the city and living in the suburbs.
Read 89 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
73,723 Population
View Nearby Homes
Chicago
City in Illinois
1,539
2 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I absolutely love living here! I couldn't imagine living anywhere else. The city is easy to maneuver, has incredibly comprehensive public transportation, and diverse neighborhoods for whatever kind of person you may be. For a major metropolitan area, rent is relatively low as well. Yes, the weather can get quite cold, but it's well worth it to be in a place where something is always happening!

There is also a lot of opportunity for people looking for work, especially recent grads. A lot of start ups are here, which gives a lot of opportunity to find work in a large range of industries. There are a lot of places to look for work, whether you're looking for something full time or temporary.

Summers in Chicago are also a blast! People are so excited for the nice weather that there are a ton of street festivals and outdoor events. The beaches are also quite nice and there are several, whether you're headed to the energetic Oak St. Beach or the more relaxed Montrose Beach.
Read 1,539 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
2,714,017 Population
View Nearby Homes
Berkeley
Suburb of Chicago, IL
18
3 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: Moved to Berkey a few years ago wanting to find a small quiet town outside the city but close to Metra. I absolutely love that it's a small, tree covered town minutes from the metra. I can get into downtown in 35 minutes!
Read 18 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
C-
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
5,201 Population
View Nearby Homes
- 2018 Best Places to Live
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Bridgeport
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
56
4 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I've lived in Bridgeport for about 13 years. When I arrived in America at age 4, I was terrified because I knew absolutely nothing about the lifestyle, culture, etc. I was most intimidated by learning English because it is so different from Cantonese. Bridgeport provided a phenomenal environment for my childhood. Not only did I attend a well rounded school, the diverse community shaped my judgement and character as I grew up. Additionally, i became so independent because my parents would work 24/7 and I would have to walk everywhere by myself. The safety was immaculate. Unfortunately, safety has decreased over the past few years due to increase of crimes. Despite that, I know my Bridgeport well and I know the neighborhood will continue to come together, bond, support each other, and implement change.
Read 56 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
32,853 Population
View Nearby Homes
Little Italy/UIC
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
46
5 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I enjoy the "small town" feeling in such large city. For example, when I walk to class and everyone who grew up in the neighborhood says hello and asks how I'm doing. It makes me feel like I am part of a very small and safe community. There aren't many things that I would change about the neighborhood. I do wish however, that there were more study places on the main boulevard. Someplace for students to go late at night to study together and get coffee or a snack.
Read 46 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
30,144 Population
View Nearby Homes
Rogers Park
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
133
6 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I've lived in Rogers Park for 5 years. Throughout those 5 years, I've experienced some rough times within myself, but I always had the comfort of my home to fall back on. I've always felt a sense of security within my community. There are some problems with crime, due to Loyola being a home to students who have money which leads to them being targeted for theft. Living in Chicago all my life helped be street smart within each neighborhood. I never had an issue with someone off the street nor the police. There are always cops patrolling, which allows me to believe they really are here to protect their citizens.
I helped make a police report for my friend and they handled it with care.
Additionally, there are many community events that are hosted that include the support of the arts, students, community, etc.
I personally love the Farmer's Market.
Overall, I love Rogers Park because it's accessibility to the beach and its ability to always call it home and mean it.
Read 133 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
56,954 Population
View Nearby Homes
Albany Park
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
111
7 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: Albany Park has a very diverse community. Though predominantly Hispanic, ethnically speaking, the community is a melting pot. It is a relatively safe area, with adjacent communities being Lincoln square, North Park, Irving Park, Portage Park, and more. The precinct I am in borders the Chicago River. Overall, my living experience has been great. I used to go on runs with my father and brother on the track at the Chicago Celtic Training Location. There are many recreational activities one can partake in if they choose to live in Albany Park. There are great high schools around Albany Park, like Theodore Roosevelt High School, and Northside College Preparatory High School a little north of the Albany Park community. Roosevelt High School has a large demographic and and currently 33 languages are being spoken at the school. Overall, the public school system, transportation system, and social network makes Albany in general a great community.
Read 111 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
51,575 Population
View Nearby Homes
Hyde Park
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
84
8 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Former Resident: I love Hyde Park, Chicago. Of all of the 77 neighborhoods that Chicago has to offer, I believe is the safest, most interesting and most diverse. It is home to the distinguished University of Chicago. So many different people reside in Chicago, of every different race, ethnicity and religion. People that come from all different walks of life. Hyde Park is a quick bus ride away from downtown and train ride away from anywhere else in the city. There are so many restaurants museums and shops, and you're literally right on the beach! You could spend a whole day here and completely fall in love with it.
Read 84 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
26,573 Population
View Nearby Homes
Forest Park
Suburb of Chicago, IL
27
9 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: If you're looking for a place to take the family even if it's for ice cream, a movie in the park, summer fests, or to explore the downtown area, then this is the place to go. With so many activities the community does and provides you wouldn't want to miss it! Everyone is very friendly and looks out for one another.
Read 27 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
C
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
14,137 Population
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- 2018 Most Diverse Cities
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Galewood
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
7
10 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: Galewood is one of the most beautiful and peaceful neighborhoods located on the far north west side of Chicago surrounded by the beautiful villages of Oak Park, River Forest and Elmwood Park. The community is very diverse and there is an overwhelming sense in pride of ownership. The community is very well taken care, every house is very well taken care and there is a variety of gorgeous landscaping. The houses in the neighborhood are simply stunning due to a verity of architecture in the neighborhood. The community is also filled with many firefighters, police officers, teachers and city workers. It is very safe and quite neighborhood. Galewood is truly a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city and feels like a peice of the suburbs was picked up and placed on this part of Chicago. Galewood is simply one of the most beautiful neighborhoods to live in Chicago.
Read 7 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
10,780 Population
View Nearby Homes
Hillside
Suburb of Chicago, IL
28
11 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I what I enjoyed growing up in Hillside was and STILL is the Diverse Resturants: Authentic Mexican/Puerto Rican, Urban (Joe's Ribs, Chicken and Fish), Subs, Pizza, Chinese, Burgers n Fry Joints are the best, very satisfying!!! There's a walk way which is called Prairie Path which extends as far as Villa Park/Downers Grove areas, this is cool because people walk their dogs, jog, run, walk, power walk, skate and ride bikes. The pathway is so therapeutic!!! The landscaping of the neighbors lawns, flower arrangements as well as bushes and trees breath taking. There is and open lot near a Car Store that can be filled with a Movie theater, lol, that's about it.
Read 28 Reviews
B-
Overall Niche Grade
C
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
8,165 Population
View Nearby Homes
Wheeling
Suburb of Chicago, IL
124
12 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: One of the number one things I like about Wheeling, IL is the fact that it’s a very quiet and safe town. Nothing much goes on that would turn people away, it’s very active community that helps those in need. I’ve been living in Wheeling for most of my life’s and have enjoyed all of my time spent here. However, one thing which I would like to see in Wheeling is a more commercialized area like a mall or something of the like. Though it isn’t being worked on currently in downtown which will make the town even better socially and economically!
Read 124 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
38,008 Population
View Nearby Homes
North Park
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
37
13 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I have been living in North Park neighborhood over five years. So far, I have only encountered friendly neighbors. I never have to worry about getting home safely at night. One of the best thing about living in the North Park neighborhood is the quietness. Overall, North Park is a great neighbor to live in, however, it lacks diversity. It does not have many color of people. It mostly contains concussions.
Read 37 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
18,743 Population
View Nearby Homes
Skokie
Town in Illinois
174
14 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I love Skokie! I worked in the schools for 12 years and wanted to live nowhere else. It's wonderful. It's very diverse (as in there is no majority and minority) all races, religions, and cultures can be found here. Wonderful people that are very down to earth and many choices for food and recreation. The park district is one of the strongest, the library is wonderful, we're close to the lake but have plenty of affordable housing options. It's easily accessible, with the CTA and the yellow line. Right off of the highway. It's the northshore without the attitude problem.
Read 174 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
64,873 Population
View Nearby Homes
Chicago Heights
Suburb of Chicago, IL
93
15 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: It’s a good town! They keep the streets clean. Pick up garbage on time, yards are cut nicely, friendly neighbors, mailman always on time, and police are always on top and making sure everything get checked out and always there when needed. Also, they are very helpful.
Read 93 Reviews
C+
Overall Niche Grade
C
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
30,349 Population
View Nearby Homes
Near South Side
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
9
16 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Parent: This area is located within walking distance of stores, restaurants and entertainment. Parking is very expensive but public transportation is readily available.
Read 9 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
23,190 Population
View Nearby Homes
Blue Island
Suburb of Chicago, IL
45
17 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: Blue Island is a suburb that is very advanced and has a lot of communication between the city government and the people. City hall is always open to the people and they are able to join the town-hall meetings to express any concerns they may have. There is diversity in this city which means there are many different types of restaurants for all different types of people. Cultural celebrations are also very common, so it's fun to be a part of Blue Island. Something that needs to change is the gang activity. Although in the past years, there has been a decrease in violence, it's still not 100% safe to walk alone at night. More police monitoring should be established.
Read 45 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
B
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
22,446 Population
View Nearby Homes
Evanston
Town in Illinois
147
18 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: Evanston is a welcoming and diverse neighborhood with excellent public education, strong small businesses, lots of community services, and great walkability! I would like to see more bike lanes, a UBI for the lowest income residents, and more opportunities for public discourse. Otherwise, I would highly recommend this city as a wonderful place to raise a family and a good place for folks who want a quieter vibe than the city but easy access to downtown (the purple line is great!)
Read 147 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
75,472 Population
View Nearby Homes
Irving Park
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
105
19 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I grew up in Irving park my whole life, surrounded by a diverse and kind community. I also attended the neighboring elementary school Grover Cleveland , and from then went to Lane Tech college prep. I also go to my nearby church , the immaculate heart of Mary, where all my other neighbors attended. Everyone knew everyone and would help take take care of one another. We trusted one another and we could safely walk to streets, as there has never been any altercations with gun violence or any gangs in the area. There also happened to be plenty of mom and pop stores which are supported by the neighborhood. The community also has safe parks for the kids to play in ,activities for the whole family. There would be block parties and garage sales all over Irving Park. I overall lived a safe and loving community and I rate Irving Park a 10/10.
Read 105 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
55,417 Population
View Nearby Homes
Edgewater
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
138
20 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: Edgewater is nothing short of amazing! I’ve lived here for 18 years (almost my entire life). It’s very affordable considering you’re living right by the beach. It’s diverse; full of so many different cultures and people. It’s only a 10-15 drive to downtown. Plus, if you don’t drive, the 147 bus goes straight downtown via Lakeshore drive so you can conveniently get downtown in 15 minutes! There’s a wide variety of different restaurants. Craving a burger, sushi, Chinese food, Indian food, pizza? Edgewater has just about anything and everything you can think of within a walking distance. Beautiful parks and beaches are the best in spring/summer time. I can’t say enough great things about Edgewater. It’s perfect.
Read 138 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
52,390 Population
View Nearby Homes
Hoffman Estates
Town in Illinois
178
21 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Former Resident: I grew up in Hoffman Estates and lived there for 20 years. It is a wonderful place to grow up. It's very safe, has a nice family-oriented feel, and while it is not small, has a sort of small town feel to it. The thing I love most about Hoffman though is that it is one of the most diverse suburbs of Chicago based on race, citizenship status, and socioeconomic status. The public schools are also really fantastic out here. The only potential downside is that it tends to lean conservative, though it has been becoming less and less so as the years wear on.
Read 178 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
51,727 Population
View Nearby Homes
Ashburn
Neighborhood in Chicago, IL
141
22 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I have resided in Ashburn for thirteen years. I attended Stevenson Elementary from kindergarten until eighth grade. I no longer attend this school, but I have siblings who would describe the education as gradually improving. As for leisure activities and food to eat, Ashburn is filled with a wide variety. I like being able to walk to from Scottsdale Branch Public Library, to Rainey Park, to the movie theaters all within in an hour. Most people I have encountered are very friendly. Recently there have been a few incidences related to safety issues regarding gangs, but overall it isn't anything too dangerous.
Read 141 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
48,871 Population
View Nearby Homes
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Homewood
Suburb of Chicago, IL
115
23 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: Homewood is, quite simply, one of the best places in America to raise a family. Our truly integrated community that is welcoming and hospitable to people from all backgrounds, races, religions and beliefs is exactly the kind of place you want your children to grow up. We are fortunate to have a vibrant and easily accessible downtown area so our kids can have the freedom to ride their bikes to Dairy Queen or the ballpark or to one of our many street fests. Schools are great but not without some small challenges that teach children that the world isn’t always perfect but that it’s your perception & ability to work with what you have been given that counts. I will take that for my kids any day over a lily-white, elitist mentality!
Read 115 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A-
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
19,280 Population
View Nearby Homes
Lansing
Suburb of Chicago, IL
77
24 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I have been living in Lansing for over twenty years. It is great city to live in. The schools are great, and I especially like the fact that everything that I need is in my neighborhood I usually do not have to shop outside the community.
Read 77 Reviews
B-
Overall Niche Grade
C+
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
28,369 Population
View Nearby Homes
Alsip
Suburb of Chicago, IL
39
25 Most Diverse Places to Live in Cook County
Current Resident: I have lived in Alsip all of my life. I have always felt safe, and have been comfortable with the people and options for entertainment, food and schools. The schools in particular have been good to me. The teachers at Prairie Junior High School had an impact on me growing up, and I like to believe that many of the experiences I had there shaped who I am today, as did the many positive experiences growing up in Alsip. I always felt that I belonged.
Read 39 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
B
Public Schools
A+
Diversity
19,335 Population
View Nearby Homes

1 of 10

Economy

Health & Outdoors

West Ridge

Chicago

Berkeley

Bridgeport

Little Italy/UIC

Rogers Park

Albany Park

Hyde Park

Forest Park

Galewood

Hillside

Wheeling

North Park

Skokie

Chicago Heights

Near South Side

Blue Island

Evanston

Irving Park

Edgewater

Hoffman Estates

Ashburn

Homewood

Lansing

Alsip