There are many reasons to move to the city of Chicago, but one of the most compelling is that it’s home to a wide variety of neighborhoods that maintain their own distinct cultures.
Attractions In Places To Live In Chicago
Whether you’re looking for a cultural hub that’s filled with museums, art galleries, music, and theatre, or a quiet community with endless walkable streets, there’s a neighborhood that fits your specific needs and desires.
To watch the web story on this article click here
Hyde Park is another of those well-rounded neighborhoods that’s packed with plenty of cultural history and a diverse population. It’s also known for its gorgeous parks and gardens, so if you’re the kind of person who enjoys a nice stroll on the weekends, this is an excellent spot to live.
Logan Square is one of the best places to live in Chicago if you’re the type of person who enjoys the arts. It’s home to endlessly walkable streets, historic sites and some of the city’s most famous restaurants.
West Town is another of the best areas to live in Chicago if you’re looking for an upscale residential neighborhood with plenty of shopping and dining. It’s also close to the city’s business district and offers easy access to a big lake and beaches.
Lincoln Park is one of the most beautiful parks in all of Chicago, with endless trails and luscious gardens. It’s also home to a number of world-class museums, including the famous Field Museum.
River North is a popular neighborhood for young professionals and singles because it’s renowned for its trendy shopping, dining, and nightlife scene. It’s also an affordable option for newcomers to the area, as Clever reports that the median rent and home prices are lower than most other areas of the city.
The city’s 77 official neighborhoods offer a range of lifestyles. From big-city access to family-friendly charm, each one brings a distinct personality.
As the nation’s third-largest city, Chicago is a melting pot of cultures. Here, residents speak more than 100 languages.
Lincoln Park & Old Town #1
Lincoln Park and Old Town offer a wide range of lifestyle options for Chicago residents looking to live north of downtown. These next-door neighborhoods offer walkability and easy access to a variety of great attractions, including charming boutiques, great restaurants and world-renowned entertainment.
Located along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s most upscale neighborhoods. With tree-lined streets, late 19th century architecture and trendy restaurants and shops, it’s an ideal place to call home.
The neighborhood is primarily residential and attracts both young professionals and families. DePaul University is a draw for many, and the Lincoln Avenue shopping district is popular with college students and professionals alike.
Residents of Lincoln Park & Old Town also enjoy access to a variety of parks, some just blocks away from their luxury apartment, like Seward Park and Hudson Chess Park. Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool is another favorite, a beautiful National Historic Landmark featuring waterfalls and stunning stonework.
If you’re looking to unwind and soak up some sunshine, head to North Avenue Beach, an expansive, family-friendly beach right in the heart of Lincoln Park. Alternatively, the Lincoln Park Zoo offers a chance to spend a day with your kids in the middle of all the action, as does the Peggy Notebart Nature Museum and many more fun things to do.
| Area | 26 ha |
| Added to NRHP | 8 November 1984 |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Architectural style | Italianate, Queen Anne |
| Built | 1872 |
| NRHP Reference Number | 84000347 |
The Loop #2
The Loop is home to some of the city’s most iconic architecture. The neighborhood’s historic buildings include the Home Insurance Building, which was once the world’s first skyscraper; the Chicago Board of Trade building, a National Historic Landmark; and Willis Tower, the world’s tallest building for almost 25 years.
It’s also home to a prominent cultural body, the Art Institute of Chicago, and a variety of world-class theaters. Check out the Gene Siskel Film Center to catch a wide selection of independent films, student films and foreign cinema.
Living in the Loop means that you’re never far from protected lake views, architectural wonders and non-stop public transit options. It also means endless shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities-many with unbeatable views of Millennium Park or Lake Michigan.
The Loop is the best place to live in Chicago if you’re a busy professional, a student or an empty-nester looking for a dynamic urban lifestyle. You’ll find a diverse mix of housing options in the area, from burgeoning condominiums to quirky lofts.
| Area | 4.092 km² |
| Elevation | 181 m |
| Population | 37,647 (2018) |
| ZIP codes | 60601, 60602, 60603, 60604, and parts of 60605, 60606, 60607, and 60616 |
| Neighborhoods | List: The Loop; New East Side; Printer’s Row; South Loop; Dearborn Park; Historic Michigan Boulevard District |
Streeterville #3
Streeterville is one of Chicago’s most popular neighborhoods for those looking for an upscale living experience. This cosmopolitan area is home to some of the city’s best upscale shopping, restaurants, hotels and apartment rental options.
It is also home to the Magnificent Mile, Oak Street Beach, and Navy Pier, the area’s #1 tourist attraction. This lakefront neighborhood is also home to the Riverwalk and some of the city’s most famous skyscrapers.
This ‘hood is packed with world-famous museums, high-end stores, top universities, medical facilities, and lavish hotels. It also features luxury high-rise condos and some townhome options on the river.
Another great thing about Streeterville is that it’s a perfect location for those looking to live a healthier lifestyle. It’s close to a variety of grocery stores and shopping outlets that will have all of your everyday needs covered.
For those who love to indulge, some of the city’s newest high-rises, such as One Bennett Park, offer stunning panoramic lake and city views. The building also offers luxury amenities such as 24-hour concierge service, on-site parking, and a large fitness center.
| Population | 34,562 |
Lake View #4
Lake View combines a gorgeous stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline with an array of cultural and dining options, a variety of parks, and a historic architecture. It’s a popular neighborhood for those who like to get outdoors, and it’s also home to some of Chicago’s most upscale shopping areas.
It’s a diverse community with a mix of traditional and modern residents. It has a strong gay community and has hosted the annual Pride Parade since 1971. The neighborhood has a large number of independent venues, many of which host live music performances.
The Chicago Music Exchange is a great place to pick up vintage guitars and gear, or to see a band play in one of their showrooms. You can catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field or a show in the Belmont Theater District.
The neighborhood is also home to many restaurants, ranging from fast-casual options to fine dining establishments. The neighborhood is also home to a number of parks, including the Lakefront Trail. It’s a great place to go for an afternoon or evening with friends and family.
| Area | 8.107 km² |
| Population | 1.01 lakhs (2018) |
| ZIP codes | parts of 60613, 60657 |
| Neighborhoods | Graceland West; Lakeview; Lakeview East; North Halsted; South East Ravenswood |
| Area code | ZIP Codes |
West Town & Wicker Park #5
One of the most popular Chicago neighborhoods to live in, West Town & Wicker Park boasts some of the city’s most exciting eateries and music venues. It is also home to a number of festivals, including West Fest, the West Town Art Walk and Renegade Craft Fair.
A thriving area with an incredibly diverse community, the neighborhood has a wide range of housing options from historic 19th century brick and stone mansions to modern new construction condos and single-family homes.
A smattering of vintage walk-ups, three-flats and lofts along with stately Victorian and Edwardian homes are dotted throughout the neighborhood. With a plethora of restaurants, bars and boutiques to explore, there’s something for everyone in the area.
Botanic brews at Forbidden Root, Chinese dumplings at Lao Peng You, Michelin-recognized soul food at Soule and tamales at Tamale Guy are just a few of the great places to dine and shop in this fun, hip community.
The area’s diverse history has influenced its current culture and the people that live here. It was once a center of Polish communities and has been home to German, Italian and Puerto Rican immigrants.
River North & Marina City #6
If you’re looking for a condo that offers a fantastic view of the city, you’ll want to look at Marina City. This River North neighborhood is located directly across the Chicago River and offers a host of restaurants, bars and other amenities just steps from your front door.
The twin corncob-shaped towers of Marina City were a pioneering residential mixed-use development when it opened in the 1960s, and they have become iconic in Chicago architecture. They were designed by Bertrand Goldberg, a Modernist architect who was influenced by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
In contrast to Mies’ clean, rectilinear forms, Goldberg created two dramatic, round towers with flowing curves for the complex. He envisioned an urban community that would encourage middle-class Chicagoans to move back into the city after years of suburban migration.
Despite its distinctive design, Marina City is also a highly functional apartment complex with on-site stores, dry cleaners, and restaurants that are convenient for renters. It’s also one of the few condos in the city that have their own marina on the Chicago River.
| Architect(s) | Bertrand Goldberg |
| Cost | US$36 million (equivalent to $281 million in 2021) |
| Completed | 1964–1968 |
| Location | State Street, Chicago, Illinois, United States |
Bucktown #7
The area is home to a mix of single-family homes and sleek modern condos. It’s also a great place for young families to settle down and start their lives in the city. Bucktown is known for its thriving community and incredible live entertainment.
Check out a show at Trap Door Theatre or enjoy a drink at The Hideout. Residents in this neighborhood also enjoy a vibrant shopping scene. You can find everything from specialty stores to Michelin-rated restaurants in this neighborhood.
Located just west of Lincoln Park and to the north of Wicker Park, Bucktown has become one of Chicago’s trendiest neighborhoods. Its popularity stems from its proximity to Lincoln Park and DePaul University, as well as its affordable housing options and a vibrant culture.
Aside from the lively culture, Bucktown is also home to a number of top-rated schools. It’s also a short distance away from the Loop and lakefront activities. In addition, the area is surrounded by nature trails and scenic lakes.
West Loop #8
The West Loop has quickly become one of the most popular areas to live in Chicago. Its proximity to downtown and youthful vibe have helped make it a favorite of millenials and young professionals alike.
The neighborhood is home to some of Chicago’s top restaurants, a lively nightlife scene, and many of the city’s best boutique stores. It also offers a great location for those who work in the Loop and want to take advantage of the numerous transportation options.
This vibrant neighborhood is a hive of activity and a commercial mecca for almost as long as the city itself has been around. Its gritty past has been transformed into a thriving neighborhood full of must-visit spots for foodies, eclectic art galleries and shops, and numerous acres of redeveloped park space.
At Trio, residents can choose from one, two, and three bedroom penthouse and apartment floor plan options. The luxury rental apartments feature modern design and spacious layouts. They also have access to a variety of upscale amenities, including high-speed internet, a co-working space, a rooftop sky lounge with an outdoor pool and sundeck, and more!
FAQs about Live In Chicago
Is it a good idea to live in Chicago?
Chicago is a vibrant city with a diverse population, rich history, and many cultural attractions. However, it also has a high crime rate and harsh winters. Whether it’s a good idea to live in Chicago depends on individual preferences and priorities. It’s important to research and consider factors such as safety, cost of living, job opportunities, and climate before making a decision.
What are the best reasons to live in Chicago?
Chicago offers a thriving arts and culture scene, a diverse and friendly population, world-renowned cuisine, and top-tier universities. It’s also a hub for business and innovation, providing ample job opportunities. Additionally, the city boasts beautiful lakefront parks, exciting sports teams, and a rich architectural history.
