NEAR NORTH SIDE
The Near North Side provides some of the most picturesque views of Downtown Chicago, with clusters of towering buildings rising up along the border of the Chicago River. This bustling community's residents are constantly on the move, reflecting the fast-paced heartbeat of Chicago's big-city atmosphere. The Near North Side reflects Chicago's most metropolitan qualities, with its many cultural, commercial, and nightlife offerings.
However, because it is located between the vibrant River North neighborhood and the ever-charming Old Town, the Near North Side serves as a perfect transition between the urban energy of Downtown and the local appeal of the North Side. Yes, the neighborhood is busy, but it also has several large parks and plenty of residential areas.
Commute Times
The Loop by train, by car
Merchandise Mart by train, by car
Union Station by train, by car
Millennium Park by train, by car
11m
14m
12m
7m
23m
13m
13m
12m
Boundaries
East to West - Lake Michigan to Clark Street
North to South -North Avenue to Chicago Avenue
Nearby Neighborhoods - Old Town, River West, New East Side, and Fulton Market
Closed Prices:
$100,000 to $6,750,000
Median Sale Price:
$425,000
Average $ per sq ft:
$468
Association Fee Ranges:
$200, $0 to $806, $0 to $8015/mo
Square Footage:
500 to 6700 Sq. Ft.
Type:
Attached Home (Condo, Townhouse, Loft, etc.), Single-Family Home
Year Built:
Current Prices:
$169,000 to $6,800,000
Quick Facts
Bedrooms:
Bathrooms:
0 to 5 Bedrooms
1 to 6 Bathrooms
1872 to 2018
THE NEIGHBORS
The many benefits of the Near North Side do come at a high monthly cost, so expect to see many residents here who are well established in their careers and have chosen to reap the benefits of professional and financial success by living in the city center. However, due to the area's nightlife and glam, some younger professionals and even students are able to secure apartment space here.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Residents with well-established careers and some younger professionals and even students .
The bustling nightlife here is sure to provide entertainment for many crowds.
Drinks at a laid-back lounge or rooftop, where patrons can admire the serenity of Chicago's skyline, can be enjoyed after a late dinner. Those seeking musical entertainment can visit one of the many theaters, piano bars, or jazz clubs. Night owls with a party bug will gravitate to the northern end of the neighborhood, where bars stay open late to accommodate the neighborhood's insomniacs and dance enthusiasts.
THE LIFESTYLE
You’d think there couldn’t be a reason not to live here.
Why wouldn't you live here, should be the question. Given its "extremely livable" designation and nearly perfect Walk Score, which makes the neighborhood a walker's paradise, as well as all the shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues right outside your door, you'd think there couldn't be a reason not to live here. Then there are all the world-class hotels in the area, with their fabulous restaurants and incredible spas, such as those at The Peninsula Hotel, Asia's oldest hotel company, which first opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1866. Its spa and wellness center alone could be reason enough to relocate to the area, let alone three exceptional award-winning restaurants where you can dine.
UNEXPECTED APPEAL
Residents are sure to find something to suit their cravings among the wealth of options found in the Near North Side's restaurant scene.
If you're on the go, try a deli or a sandwich shop, but those with time on their hands and money in their wallet can enjoy one of the many fine dining options in the area. Red meat lovers, rejoice: some of Chicago's best steakhouses, including Gibson's and Ditka's, can be found here. Excellent Italian and seafood cuisine can also be found in the area.
THE MARKET
With higher heights come more impressive views.
However, many buildings provide fantastic amenities and perks, as well as easy access to everything Downtown Chicago has to offer. Most buyers interested in the Near North Side will opt for high-rise condominiums. Buildings are densely packed along the streets in this area, so you'll have to look up to find open space.
YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH
A walk by the river offers a great view of Chicago's finest towers.
Including the historic Wrigley and Tribune buildings. For a more educational perspective on the skyline, board one of the architecture tour boats and learn about the history and nuances of each building's design. Finish the day by shopping along Chicago's famous Magnificent Mile, where opulent stores line Michigan Avenue and offer goods to suit all tastes.
TRANSPORTATION
The commute couldn't be easier because the Near North Side is literally next door to downtown Chicago. Depending on where one lives, commuting to the city's central business district is often as simple as a leisurely walk. For those who prefer not to walk, there are bus lines (22 Clark Street, 29 State Street, and 151 Sheridan Road, which runs along Michigan Avenue, to name a few) and CTA Red Line stops at Division, Chicago, and Grand, all of which connect to downtown or points north in the city. There are miles of bike lanes throughout the neighborhood for cyclists, as well as numerous Divvy Stations where one can rent a bike.
ANNUAL FESTIVAL
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival has been a thrilling holiday celebration: A day-through-night, mile-long extravaganza drawing more than one million celebrants. Its centerpiece is the largest nighttime parade in the U.S. — a spectacular parade down Michigan Avenue. Led by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse of The Walt Disney World Resort, the parade features fabulous floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, celebrities, musical performances, Santa Claus, fireworks and more —illuminating one million lights on The Avenue’s 200+ trees.