Chicago, Illinois, known as the 'Windy City,' is one of the most iconic and culturally rich cities in the United States. Chicago neighborhoods are as diverse as the city itself, offering a mix of historic charm, modern skyscrapers, and vibrant community life. From the bustling Loop to the serene lakefront areas, Chicago provides a wide range of living experiences for residents. Whether you're drawn to the architectural marvels, the rich arts scene, or the city's deep-dish pizza, Chicago is a city that has something to offer everyone. The dynamic blend of culture, history, and innovation makes Chicago a place where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony.
The Chicago neighborhood map is an invaluable resource for residents and visitors alike, offering a detailed view of the city's diverse communities. Chicago neighborhoods vary greatly in character, from the historic districts of the North Side to the artistic enclaves of the West Side. The map highlights neighborhoods with higher livability scores in green, indicating areas with excellent amenities, safety, and overall quality of life. Conversely, neighborhoods with lower scores are marked in red, helping users navigate the city's complex landscape and make informed decisions about where to live or visit.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Edison Park | 10,847 | 2.97 | 84 |
| 2 | Beverly | 13,407 | 8.24 | 82 |
| 3 | Edgewater | 12,213 | 4.16 | 81 |
| 4 | Lake View | 57,436 | 7.62 | 81 |
| 5 | Mount Greenwood | 16,972 | 7.03 | 80 |
The best Chicago neighborhoods are recognized for their high livability scores, which take into account factors such as access to local amenities, low crime rates, and the quality of schools. These neighborhoods offer a blend of urban convenience and community-oriented living, making them ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you're looking for a vibrant social scene, proximity to parks and lakes, or a quiet residential area, the best Chicago neighborhoods offer a high quality of life and a strong sense of community.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | West Pullman | 26,366 | 9.12 | 54 |
| 2 | South Deering | 5,403 | 24.2 | 57 |
| 3 | Riverdale | 165 | 8.65 | 58 |
| 4 | North Lawndale | 35,417 | 8.27 | 59 |
| 5 | Hegewisch | 10,538 | 12.22 | 59 |
The worst Chicago neighborhoods tend to score lower on livability metrics due to challenges such as higher crime rates, fewer amenities, and economic difficulties. These areas may face issues like underperforming schools and a lack of community resources, making them less desirable places to live. While every neighborhood in Chicago has its own unique character, those classified among the worst Chicago neighborhoods often struggle with factors that impact the overall quality of life, which potential residents should carefully consider when choosing a place to live.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Austin | 97,012 | 18.41 | 64 |
| 2 | Near North Side | 83,049 | 6.57 | 73 |
| 3 | Logan Square | 80,075 | 9.13 | 74 |
| 4 | Belmont Cragin | 77,859 | 10.16 | 72 |
| 5 | West Ridge | 73,660 | 9.21 | 74 |
| 6 | South Lawndale | 73,519 | 11.42 | 67 |
| 7 | Pottage Park | 64,285 | 10.25 | 73 |
| 8 | Lake View | 57,436 | 7.62 | 81 |
| 9 | Rogers Park | 53,425 | 4.59 | 74 |
| 10 | Albany Park | 53,172 | 4.92 | 76 |
The "Windy City". Immortalized by poet Carl Sandburg. The Midwest's most celebrated metropolis. And an area filled with cultural, recreational, and business opportunities, not to mention some of America's best schools. There are many reasons to appreciate and take advantage of all that America's third largest city has to offer. But the city wouldn't have the reputation that it does if it wasn't a great place to live as well. Read on to learn more about some of the neighborhoods that make Chicago worth calling home.
One of the city's iconic neighborhoods, Lincoln Park is a great blend of all that the city has to offer-business, education, the arts, public areas, historic neighborhoods, and a vibrant nightlife. Located on the city's famous North Side, the neighborhood abuts DePaul University, which means a lively college crowd, and all of the restaurants, clubs, and cultural opportunities that come with it. There is indeed a park here which offers a free zoo and many other nature and outdoor opportunities. In addition to Lincoln Park itself, a number of smaller parks are nearby. Lakefront access and swimming and boating opportunities are here. A number of retailers, many of them upscale, can be found here as well. Excellent schools, including one of the country's best public high schools, are located in Lincoln Park. A very nice area for young families and professionals, this is also one of Chicago's more expensive neighborhoods. Apartments range between $1,000-$6,000 depending on size and amenities. Homes average around $500,000.
Named one of Money Magazine's "Best Big City Neighborhoods To Live In" in 2010, Lake View is a series of smaller neighborhoods bordered on one side by Lake Michigan, and on the other by roadways West Diversey Parkway, West Irving Park Road, and North Ravenswood Avenue. The neighborhood borders Lincoln Park, contains the iconic Wrigley Field, and hosts several nationally known LGBTQ events. Lake View is noted for its many hospitals and medical centers. The area has a very rich theater history, and has more than 30 theaters and public performance spaces. Lake View's Boystown neighborhood has many boutiques, retail shops and restaurants, and is famous for its colorful nightclubs. Schools in the Lake View neighborhood are all public. Lake View accommodates a wide range of residents, from families, to singles, to senior citizens. Real estate costs are very affordable for big city living. Apartments range between $700 - $3,000 here, and homes average between $225,000, dependent on size and community.
Located north and east of the Chicago River, this neighborhood comprises the northernmost part of the city's downtown area, and is the oldest part of Chicago itself. The Near North Side is a series of neighborhoods that represent residential areas, businesses, historic districts, and cultural areas. It has a number of restaurants, and a booming theater district, including the famous improvisational comedy troupe Second City. Most of the city's museums are located here, as are campuses belonging to Loyola and Northwestern universities. The Near North Side is a good neighborhood in particular for young professionals, with apartments ranging between $1,400 - $9,500 depending on size and amenities, and homes here averaging $400,000 depending on size and community.