Chicago enjoys a great position on the shores of Lake Michigan and is both an exciting and diverse place to live. This multicultural city embodies the values of America’s ethics of hard work and community which form the backbone for its 77 distinct neighborhoods. A very passionate sports town, the city has much to offer the resident and visitor including wonderful nightlife, top museums, theatres, award winning restaurants and over 3,000 acres of parkland.
For anyone looking to live in Chicago, expect to find high standards of public safety, great public schools and a range of affordable housing. Here we take a look at some of Chicago’s best neighbourhoods.
#1 THE LOOP
The area surrounded by the EL tracks is better known as The Loop. This is the business district of Chicago and architecture is a major draw. World famous buildings such as The Sears Tower as well as other favourites such as the Monadnock building stand impressively above the city and even if you are already a resident of Chicago, a tour of the Loop is a must. Access to the City’s parks is another great asset of The Loop with Grant Park and Millennium Park sitting right next to each other offering a wealth of events and summer festivals. With theaters, big name shopping and a host of bars and restaurants, The Loop has something for everyone.
#2 BEVERLEY
Beverley is a traditionally Irish neighbourhood which is both unique and visually interesting. With a few hills to add interest to an otherwise flat area, Beverley sits on the South side of Chicago. One of the more affluent areas of the city, housing can be expensive but Beverley offers a great location and a clean, safe and family friendly area. The Beverley Arts Centre offers a varied program of art, cinema and dance whilst a good selection of pubs, restaurants and eateries make it a fun place to be and a great choice for families with kids.
#3 FOREST GLEN
Forest Glen is nicknamed Chicago’s finest community and is one of Chicago’s more affluent and expensive neighbourhoods. It is a quiet and safe place to live which has made it a favourite with professionals, affluent families and retirees alike. Forest Glen lies just a few miles from downtown Chicago and offers a peaceful haven away from the fast paced life associated with the city. With a good range of golf courses, beautiful forests, elegant churches and a choice of good restaurants, it is one of Chicago’s safest neighbourhoods and perfect for families and professionals. There is a good choice of housing styles here however it is expensive and considered a very upmarket and affluent place to live.
#4 THE NEAR NORTH SIDE
Near North Side has to be one of the wealthiest areas of the city. Comprising of the Gold Coast, River North and Streeterville neighbourhoods it is also one of the more touristy places to live. Beautiful buildings mix with ritzy apartment and condos to make up an eclectic mix of neighbourhoods well worthy of exploring. Near North Side offers a vast range of eateries, bars and top restaurants so there is something to suit all tastes and budgets. Navy Pier, The Magnificent Mile and The Museum of Contemporary Art are all must visits for both tourists and residents. Due to its great city location, the area is popular with professionals and singles who will find everything they need right on their doorstep.
# 5 HYDE PARK
Hyde Park is home to the University of Chicago and as such offers a diverse community with lots to see and do. There are plenty of attractions, bookstores, eateries and restaurants and the area is brimming with culture. Here you’ll find tree lined streets, stunning architecture, leafy green parks and fascinating museums combined with so many things to see and do. All this makes Hyde Park a great neighborhood for professionals, singles, students and families with kids.
Have you visited Chicago? Have we missed your favorite neighborhood off the list? Share your top places in Chicago with us in the comments below.