Top 20 Chicago neighborhoods. The emoji-friendly guide 🌊🏙️

An overview of the best 20 neighborhoods in Chicago, covering different aspects like why it's great to live there, the kind of people living there, the attractions, famous for, businesses, housing prices, studio, 1BR, and 2BR apartment prices, pedestrian-friendly, public transportation availability, and pet-friendliness. These neighborhoods include Streeterville, West Loop, Logan Square, Wicker Park, Ukrainian Village, Bucktown, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Hyde Park, Andersonville, Pilsen, Old Town, South Loop, Edgewater, Ravenswood, Albany Park, Rogers Park, Lincoln Square, Bridgeport, and Beverly. The guide aims to help individuals looking to relocate to Chicago to find a neighborhood that fits their preferences and budget.

1. Lincoln Park 🌳

• Why live there: Lincoln Park is a family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of green spaces and a great food scene.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of families, young professionals, and college students.
• Attractions: Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park Conservatory, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and the Chicago History Museum are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its historic architecture and beautiful parks.
• Businesses: Lincoln Park is home to a mix of businesses, including boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $775,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,400 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,800 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,700 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

2. River North 🎨

• Why live there: River North is a trendy neighborhood with a thriving arts scene and a great nightlife.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of artists, young professionals, and families.
• Attractions: The Merchandise Mart, the Museum of Broadcast Communications, and the Riverwalk are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its galleries, bars, and restaurants.
• Businesses: River North is home to a mix of businesses, including art galleries, design showrooms, and upscale restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $537,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,600 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $2,000 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $3,000 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

3. Wicker Park 🎸

• Why live there: Wicker Park is a hip and trendy neighborhood with a great music scene and a unique mix of vintage and boutique shops.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of artists, musicians, and young professionals.
• Attractions: The Flat Iron Arts Building, the Wicker Park Secret Garden, and the Robey Hotel are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its indie music scene and trendy boutiques.
• Businesses: Wicker Park is home to a mix of businesses, including vintage shops, record stores, and artisanal food markets.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $840,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,400 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,900 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,800 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

4. Lakeview 🌊

• Why live there: Lakeview is a lively neighborhood with easy access to Lake Michigan and a great food scene.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of families, young professionals, and college students.
• Attractions: Wrigley Field, Lincoln Park Conservatory, and Belmont Harbor are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its baseball stadium and beautiful lakefront.
• Businesses: Lakeview is home to a mix of businesses, including sports bars, cozy cafes, and local shops.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $605,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,200 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,600 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,300 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

5. West Loop 🍴

• Why live there: West Loop is a trendy neighborhood with a thriving restaurant scene and a mix of new and old architecture.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of young professionals, families, and artists.
• Attractions: The Fulton Market District, the Skinner Park, and the United Center are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its trendy restaurants and new architecture.
• Businesses: West Loop is home to a mix of businesses, including boutique shops, coffee shops, and upscale restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $680,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,600 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $2,100 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $3,200 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

6. Gold Coast 💰

• Why live there: Gold Coast is an upscale neighborhood with beautiful architecture and easy access to Lake Michigan.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of wealthy residents and young professionals.
• Attractions: The John Hancock Center, the Newberry Library, and Oak Street Beach are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its historic mansions and luxury shopping.
• Businesses: Gold Coast is home to a mix of businesses, including high-end boutiques, luxury hotels, and upscale restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.25 million.
• Studio: Average price is $1,500 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $2,200 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $3,700 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

7. Hyde Park 🏛️

• Why live there: Hyde Park is a historic neighborhood with a strong academic community and plenty of cultural attractions.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of families, students, and scholars.
• Attractions: The University of Chicago, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the DuSable Museum of African American History are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its historic architecture and academic institutions.
• Businesses: Hyde Park is home to a mix of businesses, including independent bookstores, cafes, and restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $265,000.
• Studio: Average price is $950 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,200 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $1,800 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

8. Ukrainian Village 🥟

• Why live there: Ukrainian Village is a hip and eclectic neighborhood with a strong Polish and Ukrainian heritage and a thriving food scene.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of artists, young professionals, and families.
• Attractions: The Ukrainian National Museum, the Chopin Theatre, and the Empty Bottle are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its Eastern European heritage and trendy restaurants.
• Businesses: Ukrainian Village is home to a mix of businesses, including traditional bakeries, vintage shops, and new restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $635,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,100 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,500 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,200 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

9. Logan Square 🌳

• Why live there: Logan Square is a bohemian neighborhood with a great food and arts scene and plenty of green spaces.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of artists, young professionals, and families.
• Attractions: The Logan Theatre, the 606 trail, and the National Museum of Mexican Art are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its street art and trendy restaurants.
• Businesses: Logan Square is home to a mix of businesses, including artisanal bakeries, record stores, and hip restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $518,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,100 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,500 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,300 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

10. Pilsen 🎨

• Why live there: Pilsen is a vibrant and artistic neighborhood with a rich Mexican heritage and a thriving arts scene.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of artists, families, and young professionals.
• Attractions: The National Museum of Mexican Art, the Thalia Hall, and the Pilsen Mural Tour are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its colorful street art and Mexican culture.
• Businesses: Pilsen is home to a mix of businesses, including taquerias, art galleries, and vintage shops.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $325,000.
• Studio: Average price is $900 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,200 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $1,800 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

11. Streeterville 🏙️

• Why live there: Streeterville is a downtown neighborhood with plenty of high-rise condos and easy access to Lake Michigan.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
• Attractions: The Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, and the Museum of Contemporary Art are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its luxury shopping and lakefront views.
• Businesses: Streeterville is home to a mix of businesses, including high-end boutiques, luxury hotels, and upscale restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $449,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,600 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $2,100 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $3,300 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and lakefront trails.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

12. Old Town 🎭

• Why live there: Old Town is a historic neighborhood with a charming atmosphere and a great arts scene.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
• Attractions: The Second City Theatre, the Chicago History Museum, and the Lincoln Park Zoo are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its historic architecture and comedy scene.
• Businesses: Old Town is home to a mix of businesses, including boutique shops, cafes, and theaters.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $575,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,400 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,900 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,900 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

13. South Loop 🏢

• Why live there: South Loop is a downtown neighborhood with a mix of modern high-rise condos and historic buildings.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of young professionals, families, and students.
• Attractions: The Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and Soldier Field are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its museums and lakefront views.
• Businesses: South Loop is home to a mix of businesses, including upscale restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $402,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,500 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $2,000 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $3,100 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

14. Edgewater 🌊

• Why live there: Edgewater is a lakefront neighborhood with a diverse community and plenty of green spaces.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of families, young professionals, and seniors.
• Attractions: The Broadway Armory, the Edgewater Historical Society Museum, and the Thorndale Beach are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its lakefront parks and historic homes.
• Businesses: Edgewater is home to a mix of businesses, including local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $350,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,000 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,400 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,100 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

15. Ravenswood 🎨

• Why live there: Ravenswood is a charming and artistic neighborhood with a strong community spirit.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of families, young professionals, and artists.
• Attractions: The Ravenswood ArtWalk, the DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, and the Welles Park are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its art scene and community events.
• Businesses: Ravenswood is home to a mix of businesses, including art galleries, independent bookstores, and cozy cafes.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $550,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,200 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,700 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

16. Albany Park 🌯

• Why live there: Albany Park is a diverse and affordable neighborhood with a great food scene.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of immigrants, young professionals, and families.
• Attractions: The North Park Village Nature Center, the Albany Park Theatre Project, and the Mayfair Park are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its international cuisine and cultural diversity.
• Businesses: Albany Park is home to a mix of businesses, including ethnic restaurants, grocery stores, and local shops.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $345,000.
• Studio: Average price is $900 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,200 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $1,700 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

17. Rogers Park 🏖️

• Why live there: Rogers Park is a diverse and affordable lakefront neighborhood with a laid-back vibe.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of families, students, and artists.
• Attractions: The Loyola Beach, the Glenwood Avenue Arts District, and the Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Society are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its beach and artistic community.
• Businesses: Rogers Park is home to a mix of businesses, including vintage shops, local cafes, and community theaters.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $255,000.
• Studio: Average price is $850 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,100 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $1,600 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

18. Lincoln Square 🎶

• Why live there: Lincoln Square is a charming and artsy neighborhood with a strong German heritage and a thriving music scene.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of families, young professionals, and musicians.
• Attractions: The Old Town School of Folk Music, the DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, and the Winnemac Park are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its music scene and European charm.
• Businesses: Lincoln Square is home to a mix of businesses, including German restaurants, boutique shops, and independent music stores.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $630,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,200 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,800 per month.
• 2 BR: Average price is $2,600 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

19. Bridgeport 🎨

• Why live there: Bridgeport is a historic and artistic neighborhood with a strong sense of community.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of families, artists, and young professionals.
• Attractions: The Zhou B Art Center, the Bridgeport Art Center, and the Palmisano Park are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its artistic community and political history.
• Businesses: Bridgeport is home to a mix of businesses, including local bars, cafes, and art galleries.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $345,000.
• Studio: Average price is $800 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,100 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $1,600 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

20. Beverly 🏘️

• Why live there: Beverly is a historic and suburban-feeling neighborhood with beautiful architecture and plenty of green spaces.
• People: The neighborhood is diverse, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.
• Attractions: The Ridge Historical Society, the Beverly Art Center, and the Dan Ryan Woods are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its historic homes and peaceful atmosphere.
• Businesses: Beverly is home to a mix of businesses, including local shops, restaurants, and cafes.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $382,000.
• Studio: Average price is $900 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,200 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $1,800 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

The final notes

If you are looking to relocate to Chicago, it's important to research the different neighborhoods to find the best fit for your needs and preferences. Here are 10 important factors to consider:

💰 Cost of Living: Chicago can be an affordable city to live in, but the cost of living can vary by neighborhood, so it's important to research the average cost of living in each area.

🏡 Housing Prices: The median home price in Chicago is $266,000, but housing prices can vary greatly by neighborhood, so it's important to research the housing market in each area.

🚆 Transportation: Chicago has a great public transportation system, including the L train and buses, but some neighborhoods may have better access than others, so consider how you plan to get around the city.

🚶 Pedestrian-Friendly: Some neighborhoods may be more pedestrian-friendly than others, with wider sidewalks, bike lanes, and parks.

🎭🎨 Attractions: Consider the attractions and amenities each neighborhood has to offer, such as museums, parks, restaurants, and nightlife.

🌈 Diversity: Chicago is known for its diverse communities, so research which neighborhoods may best fit your needs.

🔒 Safety: Crime rates can vary by neighborhood, so make sure to research the safety of each area before making a decision.

📚 Education: If you have children, research the quality of schools in each neighborhood.

🐾 Pet-Friendliness: If you have pets, research which neighborhoods have pet-friendly apartments and amenities.

🚗 Commute Time: Consider the distance and time it will take you to commute to work or other important destinations from each neighborhood.

By keeping these factors in mind and researching the different neighborhoods of Chicago, you can find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences. Good luck with your search!