Best Chicago Neighborhoods to Live In (That Aren’t Downtown)
It’s no secret that there are perks to living in downtown Chicago.
There’s the walk-to-everything convenience, like grabbing a coffee on your way to the gym, picking up groceries on the walk home, and rarely needing to plan around a commute. Transit access is hard to beat, especially in The Loop, where every CTA line converges. Car-free living comes naturally here, whether you’re heading to work, meeting friends, or exploring the city. This means no traffic, no parking headaches, no wasted time.
And boredom? Not an option. Millennium Park. The Art Institute of Chicago. The Chicago Theatre. Michigan Avenue. The Bean. Willis Tower. Festivals, concerts, museums, public art… Culture isn’t something you visit, it’s something you live inside every day. Add in skyline, river, and lake views, and downtown living delivers an unmistakably Chicago experience.
But what if you don’t work downtown? What if you want to keep your car? Maybe you’re looking for quieter streets, more neighborhood restaurants and bars, or tree-lined sidewalks where your dog can set the pace. Or maybe downtown Chicago just isn’t your vibe, and that’s okay.
Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, and each one offers its own version of city living. From strong transit access and walkability to vibrant local scenes and more breathing room at home, there are plenty of Chicago neighborhoods that deliver big-city perks without the downtown feel.
Here are some of the
best Chicago neighborhoods to live in if you want everything you love about the city, without living downtown.
#1: Lakeview
Neighborhood: Lakeview is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Chicago, known for its strong sense of community, year-round events, and access to green space. Located just four miles north of downtown Chicago, Lakeview is home to the Belmont Theatre District and offers easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. With multiple CTA train lines, scenic walking and biking paths, and an abundance of independent boutiques and coffee shops, Lakeview blends convenience with neighborhood charm.
What the Locals Do: Locals enjoy a lifestyle that balances lakefront living with nonstop neighborhood energy. Mornings often start along the Lakefront Trail or near Belmont Harbor, while evenings bring crowds to Wrigley Field, Halsted Street, and Broadway. The Southport Corridor is a favorite for boutique shopping, brunch, and relaxed dining. Comedy clubs, live music venues, and a strong LGBTQ+ scene keep the neighborhood active day and night.
Why Lakeview: Lakeview offers one of the most livable, walkable neighborhoods in Chicago. With everyday essentials close to home, excellent public transit, and a welcoming community, it’s easy to settle in. A mix of classic Chicago architecture and modern apartments makes Lakeview feel energetic, social, and deeply connected.
Where To Live:
If you choose
Reside on Surf, you’ll enjoy updated apartments, a walkable Lakeview location, and resident-favorite amenities like a rooftop deck and fitness center, along with responsive maintenance that makes day-to-day living easy. At
The Belmont by Reside, you get the charm of a classic building with modern upgrades, spacious layouts, and a welcoming community near the lakefront. Either way, you’re choosing a home that puts you close to transit, dining, and everything Lakeview has to offer.
#2: West Loop
Neighborhood: The West Loop has become one of Chicago’s most desirable neighborhoods thanks to its food scene, modern apartments, and proximity to downtown. Anchored by Randolph Street’s Restaurant Row and Fulton Market, the area blends its industrial roots with a polished, high-energy atmosphere that supports both work and play.
What the Locals Do: Life in the West Loop revolves around dining, socializing, and staying active. Locals meet for sushi, rooftop cocktails, or happy hour after work, then balance it out with boutique fitness studios or time at Mary Bartelme Park. Brunch plans, workout classes, and last-minute dinner reservations are all part of the routine.
Why West Loop: The West Loop is highly walkable and offers quick access to downtown Chicago, major employers, and public transit. With acclaimed restaurants, cafés, and modern amenities just steps from home, the neighborhood delivers a refined take on city living.
Where To Live: If you choose 24 S Morgan, you’ll enjoy modern, spacious apartments in the heart of the West Loop with easy access to transit, dining, and everyday conveniences, plus amenities that support an active, social lifestyle. At The Lofts at Gin Alley, you get distinctive loft-style living with exposed brick, high ceilings, and an unbeatable Fulton Market location steps from some of Chicago’s best restaurants and nightlife. Either option puts you in a vibrant neighborhood with thoughtfully designed spaces that make city living feel effortless.
#3: Lincoln Park
Neighborhood:
Lincoln Park is one of the most well-rounded neighborhoods in Chicago, offering a mix of culture, outdoor space, and residential charm. Anchored by its namesake park, the area features scenic lakefront trails, iconic attractions, and a strong arts and entertainment presence, all within a walkable setting.
What the Locals Do: Locals enjoy a slower, intentional pace. Weekends are spent strolling the park, browsing local shops, meeting friends for dinner, or spending time by Lake Michigan. Attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo and Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum make spontaneous outings part of everyday life.
Why Lincoln Park: Lincoln Park offers breathing room without losing its connection to the city. With abundant green space, strong transit access, and a residential feel, it’s ideal for renters looking for balance and livability within Chicago.
Where To Live: If you choose Park Lincoln by Reside, you’ll enjoy modern, spacious apartments with convenient amenities in the heart of Lincoln Park, just steps from dining, shopping, and transit. At Park Fullerton by Reside, you get stylish, renovated living in a classic building near the lakefront, with thoughtful features that make it easy to relax and feel at home. Either option gives you comfortable Lincoln Park living with unbeatable access to the neighborhood you love.
#4: Buena Park
Neighborhood:
Buena Park is a quiet, residential neighborhood located between Lakeview and Uptown. Known for its historic architecture and tree-lined streets, it offers a calm atmosphere with exceptional access to public transit, the lakefront, and nearby entertainment districts.
What the Locals Do:
Daily life here moves at an easy pace. Residents enjoy walks through the neighborhood, time by Lake Michigan, and casual dining nearby. Instead of a busy nightlife scene, locals favor relaxed cafés while still being minutes from live music and cultural venues.
Why Buena Park:
Buena Park offers a rare combination of character, convenience, and tranquility. Its historic buildings and peaceful streets make it a hidden gem for those who want neighborhood living close to downtown Chicago without the downtown Chicago price tag.
Where to Live: If you choose Reside at Irving Park, you’ll enjoy renovated, light-filled apartments with modern finishes and outdoor space just steps from the lake, dining, and transit. At Irving Courts by Reside, you get comfortable, updated apartment homes with great natural light and convenient community amenities in a walkable neighborhood. Both offer an easy, connected lifestyle in a vibrant Chicago location.
#5: Gold Coast
Neighborhood:
Gold Coast blends luxury, history, and location into one of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods. Tree-lined streets, classic brownstones, and immediate lakefront access define the area, while downtown Chicago sits just minutes away.
What the Locals Do:
Mornings often begin with lakefront walks near Oak Street Beach, followed by shopping along Oak Street or dining at neighborhood restaurants and wine bars. Life here is walkable, polished, and intentionally unhurried.
Why Gold Coast:
The Gold Coast delivers refined city living with a residential feel. Scenic surroundings, historic architecture, and proximity to downtown make it ideal for those seeking elegance without constant bustle.
Where to Live:
If you choose
Gild, you’ll enjoy modern, luxury apartments with elevated finishes, rooftop spaces, and a boutique living experience in the heart of the Gold Coast. At
State & Chestnut, you get resort-style amenities like a rooftop pool, fitness center, and concierge service, all steps from top dining, shopping, and nightlife. Both communities offer a polished city lifestyle with premium features and an unbeatable location.
#6: Wicker Park / Bucktown
Neighborhood:
Wicker Park and Bucktown are creative, walkable neighborhoods on Chicago’s northwest side, known for their artistic energy and local character. The area blends historic architecture with modern apartments and is anchored by chef-driven restaurants, boutique shopping, live music venues, and an active nightlife scene. The 606 offers a scenic elevated trail for walking, running, and biking, while the CTA Blue Line provides quick access to downtown Chicago and O’Hare International Airport.
What the Locals Do:
Locals treat the neighborhood like an extension of their living room - casual, social, and effortlessly walkable. Coffee runs, record store browsing, vintage shopping, patio brunches, and evenings spent at intimate music venues are part of daily life. The 606 is woven into routines for dog walks, workouts, and biking between neighborhoods.
Why Wicker Park and Bucktown:
Wicker Park and Bucktown offer a rare balance of creative energy and residential comfort. Trend-forward without feeling transient, these neighborhoods make it easy to put down roots while staying closely connected to the pulse of Chicago.
Find Your Neighborhood Fit
Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each offering its own take on what great city living looks like. Whether you’re drawn to lakefront paths, food-forward districts, creative energy, or quiet, tree-lined streets, these Chicago neighborhoods deliver the lifestyle, convenience, and character that make the city such a desirable place to call home.
At
Reside Living, our communities are thoughtfully placed in neighborhoods that let you live the way you want, with the comforts of home and the energy of the city right outside your door. Exploring these areas in person is the best way to experience their rhythm, local flavor, and sense of community.
Whether you’re ready to be steps from the lake, immersed in arts and dining, or surrounded by a quieter residential feel, there’s a Chicago neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. Come explore, walk the streets, and discover the place that truly feels like home.
