Chicago has neighborhoods for every budget—from luxury high-rises in River North to affordable gems in Pilsen and Bridgeport. This guide breaks down the best neighborhoods by what you can actually afford, with honest takes on transit, safety, and livability.
Jump to Your Budget
Under $1,200/month
Finding a decent studio or 1BR under $1,200 in Chicago is very possible. You'll find great options in the South and West Sides and some North Side areas further from downtown.
Pilsen
Lower West SideVibrant Mexican-American culture, amazing murals and food. Pink Line access. Artist community, rapidly gentrifying but still affordable.
Bridgeport
South SideHistoric working-class neighborhood, great local bars and restaurants. Near Sox park. Diverse, affordable, community-oriented.
Rogers Park
Far North SideLakefront access, diverse community, college-town vibe (Loyola). Red Line to downtown. Beach access in summer.
Humboldt Park
West SideBeautiful park, Puerto Rican heritage. Up-and-coming, lots of new restaurants. Buses to Blue Line.
$1,200-$1,600/month
This budget opens up popular neighborhoods on the North Side and some trendy West Side spots.
Logan Square
Northwest SideTrendy, hip, excellent restaurant scene. Beautiful boulevards and historic architecture. Blue Line to downtown in 15 min.
Uptown
North SideHistoric theaters, diverse community, near lakefront. Live music venues. Red Line access. Improving rapidly.
Avondale
Northwest SideQuieter alternative to Logan Square. Great breweries, family-friendly. Blue Line access. Polish heritage.
Edgewater
North SideLakefront living, diverse and welcoming. Near Andersonville shops. Red Line access. Quieter pace.
$1,600-$2,000/month
This opens up prime neighborhoods with the best amenities and transit.
Wicker Park
Near West SideChicago's trendiest neighborhood. Amazing bars, restaurants, and shopping. Blue Line access. Young professional hub.
Lakeview
North SideHome to Wrigley Field, vibrant nightlife (Boystown). Lakefront access, great dining. Red/Brown/Purple Lines.
Old Town
Near North SideHistoric architecture, famous comedy clubs (Second City). Near North Ave beach. Walkable to downtown.
$2,000+/month
Premium neighborhoods with the best amenities, views, and locations.
Lincoln Park
North SideChicago's most desirable neighborhood. Zoo, conservatory, lakefront. Beautiful tree-lined streets. Brown/Red/Purple Lines.
River North
Near North SideHigh-rise living, galleries, upscale dining. Walking distance to Loop. Nightlife hub. Multiple L lines.
West Loop
Near West SideRestaurant Row, converted lofts. Chicago's hottest dining scene. Green/Pink Lines. Tech companies nearby.
Gold Coast
Near North SideChicago's most exclusive neighborhood. Historic mansions, Oak Street Beach. Magnificent Mile shopping. Premium everything.
Compare All Community Areas
See detailed rankings for every Chicago community area based on building quality, violations, and more.
Tips for Choosing a Neighborhood
- Visit at different times — Day, night, weekday, weekend. Neighborhoods feel different.
- Test your commute — Actually ride the L during rush hour.
- Check building quality — A cheap apartment in a bad building isn't a deal. Research buildings on StreetSmart.
- Consider parking — If you have a car, check if the building has parking or what street parking is like.
- Think about winter — Is the walk to the L station manageable in snow?