After surveying our agents, we compiled a list of their favorite neighborhoods in Chicago. Read on to learn about the vibe of each neighborhood, things to do, and why you should live in one of the 5 best neighborhoods in Chicago.
Looking for an apartment in one of the best neighborhoods in Chicago? Reach out to AptAmigo to get your own personal apartment assistant who will take the stress out of apartment hunting.
Related: Best Luxury Apartments in Chicago
The 5 Best Neighborhoods in Chicago
River North
Neighborhood vibe:
Situated adjacent to Gold Coast and the Magnificent Mile, the lively and posh River North offers a prime location for new Chicagoans looking for a full-value introduction to the city. Aptly named for its numerous art galleries and studios, River North is an artists’ haven and then some. Many bars, clubs, and top-rated restaurants dot aged streets marked by Chicago’s varied architecture.
Live here if:
You crave fascinating culture, beautiful aesthetics, and a vibrant atmosphere. River North pulsates with creative energy around every bend. Eclectic people mix and mingle at stylish hangouts and bump elbows at the communal tables.
Top apartment buildings: Hubbard Place, AMLI River North, Flair Tower
Things to do:
This vibrant neighborhood is home to more than just artists. It attracts Chicago residents from all walks of life because of its culture, convenience, and activity. Stroll along the city’s award-winning Chicago Riverwalk, or indulge in flavor at restaurants like Tanta Chicago or RPM Steak. Swing by Gilt Bar’s Library for classy cocktails and an elegant vintage atmosphere.
Lincoln Park
Neighborhood vibe:
The eastern side of Lincoln Park transports residents out of a bustling city and into a picturesque, natural paradise. Running trails, breathtaking botanic gardens, and an extensive lakefront speckle this neighborhood, pleasing nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. In addition to plenty of outdoor space, tourists and locals frequent this diverse and happening spot for entertainment options that range from cocktail lounges to dive bars to comedy clubs.
Live here if:
You desire a diverse array of activities all year long. Spend the summer at any one of the neighborhood’s parks, ride bikes along the lakeshore, or sip coffees near Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool, and enjoy Chicago’s amazing summer weather. Foodies could spend a year checking off restaurants on their bucket lists without ever leaving the neighborhood.
Top apartment buildings: Park Lincoln by Reside, The Patricians Chicago, Belden Stratford
Things to do:
This unique neighborhood contains one of the oldest zoos in the country (Lincoln Park Zoo), one of the best restaurants in the world (Alinea), and fantastic shopping on Armitage and Halstead. Take in sweeping views of Lake Michigan from the rooftop restaurant at The J. Parker, or relax on the shore of North Avenue Beach. Once winter hits, Lincoln Park offers a host of fantastic activities to keep you warm. Catch a show at the Steppenwolf Theatre Company, or learn about the windy city at the Chicago History Museum.
South Loop
Neighborhood vibe:
South Loop emits a classical and creative feel that allows residents to glimpse historic Chicago as it was during its Industrial Revolution boom. Walk along Motor Row or Prairie Avenue District to witness the Windy City through the ages. South Loop ranks as one of the best neighborhoods in Chicago because it gives residents convenient access to Chicago’s business district, while also providing easy entry to the city’s eastern neighborhoods.
Live here if:
You crave a big city feel without big city stressors. South Loop’s convenient location between the Magnificent Mile and South Commons strikes the perfect balance between urban dwelling and Midwestern charm. Opt to stay in South Loop for an authentic Chicago experience and backdoor access to world-famous attractions.
Top apartment buildings: Neveseno, Astoria Tower Chicago, Sky55 Chicago
Things to do:
Residents and visitors to South Loop will never run out of things to do. South Loop’s Museum Campus boasts five of the city’s most renowned attractions — The Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, Soldier Field, The Field Museum of Natural History, and the McCormick Place Lakeside Center. Legendary blues musicians have performed throughout South Loop, and music lovers will delight in the numerous music venues, jazz clubs, and speakeasies in this enchanting neighborhood.
Streeterville
Neighborhood vibe:
Despite this fresh Chicago neighborhood’s tiny size, it bursts from its seams with life as a result of increased 21st-century development. Streeterville is both beautiful to look at and interesting to dive into head first. It houses some of the city’s tallest buildings and most iconic landmarks, with a mix of professional and residential spaces. It’s a little neighborhood with a big personality smack dab in the heart of one of America’s biggest cities.
Live here if:
You enjoy living in the heart of the action, but want to be a part of a caring community. Become a familiar face at any of Streeterville’s cool coffee shops and get to know the bartender at your local watering hole. Immerse yourself in the bustling city life by walking a few blocks down to enter Chicago’s busy urban center.
Top apartment buildings: Avenue East Chicago, Grand Ohio Chicago, Sienna Chicago
Things to do:
Spend the day at the world-famous Navy Pier and ride the 200-ft Centennial Wheel. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art to witness innovative, breaktaking pieces created by some of the world’s most talented artists. View the sunset behind the skyline during summer evenings at Oak Street Beach, North Avenue Beach’s quieter neighbor. The Magnificent Mile borders Streeterville, so residents get quick access to hundreds of high-end shops, five-star restaurants, and unique bars. Embrace Chicago’s crisp falls and hide out from snowy winters along this boundary of Streeterville.
West Loop
Neighborhood vibe:
Just north of the Lower West Side and east of East Garfield Park sits the food haven of West Loop. This former mecca of industry now boasts unique warehouse spaces, incredible restaurants, and Greek Town. The funky and fun vibe attracts residents of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. West Loop is an eclectic hotspot for eateries and nightlife, so this neighborhood always hops no matter the time of day.
Live here if:
You call yourself a food fanatic and want all the big-city restaurant experiences. Book your weekend nights with reservations at world-renowned restaurants, or spend evenings vying for limited tables at wacky dessert spots, cafes, and bars.
Top apartment buildings: No. Ten Lofts Chicago, Gateway West Loop, The Madison at Racine
Things to do:
Loosen your belt and head to any of West Loop’s top rated eateries. Snack on duck tongues at Girl & The Goat, owned by Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard. Wait in line for a table at Au Cheval and reap the reward of savouring one of the best burgers in America. Bop around Greektown to enjoy the vibrant culture of a country oceans away, right in your backyard.
Find a Luxury Apartment in the Best Neighborhoods in Chicago
Now that you know the best neighborhoods in Chicago, let AptAmigo help you find your dream apartment. All you have to do is reach out to us and let us know what the perfect place for you looks like. We will handle the rest. Start your stress-free apartment search today!
* The original version of this article was first published on January 7, 2020.
Abigail is a freelance writer who loves exploring new places, especially in the Southwest, and lived in her van during the Covid-19 pandemic. When she's not working on writing gigs to support her #vanlife endeavors, she loves packrafting alpine lakes, floating lazy rivers, and trail running.
