Evaluating the Neighborhood Virtually: Tools and Tips

Naecha Roberts • February 21, 2025

Finding the perfect neighborhood is just as exciting as choosing the right apartment! With today’s technology, you can explore potential communities without even leaving your couch. How cool is that? Using the right online tools, you can easily get a feel for a neighborhood’s vibe, check out local amenities, see how walkable it is, and even gauge safety—all before you ever step foot in the area. Whether you’re thinking about moving into one of Reside Living’s fabulous Chicago apartments or another city, here are some fun and easy ways to virtually explore your future neighborhood!

1. Google Maps and Street View

Google Maps is a great starting point for anyone wanting to explore a new neighborhood. Use the Street View feature to take a virtual “walk” through the area, viewing the surroundings as if you were right there. This allows you to check out local businesses, parks, and street layouts, giving you a sense of the neighborhood’s walkability and overall atmosphere.

Pro tip: Use Street View to “walk” from the apartment to nearby restaurants, grocery stores, or public transportation stops. It’s a great way to envision your daily routine.

Check out some of the neighborhoods that Reside has properties in. With Google Business Profile (GBP) listings attached to each location it's a great way to explore the neighborhood to get a feel of what Reside living feels like!

2. Crime and Safety Tools

Feeling safe in your new neighborhood is a top priority! Websites like NeighborhoodScout (https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/) and CrimeMapping (https://www.crimemapping.com/) offer detailed crime reports and neighborhood safety ratings, helping you assess how secure a potential area is.

Pro tip: Look at trends over time rather than just current data to get a more comprehensive view of the neighborhood's safety.

3. Walkability and Public Transit Scores

For those who prefer a pedestrian-friendly environment or rely on public transportation, tools like Walk Score and Transit Score are essential. These sites rank neighborhoods based on how easy it is to get around on foot or using public transit. A high Walk Score means that most daily errands can be done without a car, which can be a big perk for city living.

Pro tip: A high Transit Score can also help reduce commuting costs, making it easier to get to work, entertainment, or recreational activities.

4. Yelp and Google Reviews

Online reviews can give insight into the local businesses that help shape the neighborhood’s culture. Browse reviews for nearby restaurants, cafes, gyms, or shops to get a sense of the local vibe. High ratings and frequent positive feedback can indicate an active and engaged community.

Pro tip: Check out what locals are saying in the reviews—are there mentions of friendly service, community events, or neighborhood culture? These details can be telling about the area’s character.

5. Social Media and Online Communities

Neighborhood Facebook groups, Reddit threads, or Instagram geotags can be treasure troves of information. These platforms offer firsthand accounts and up-to-date information on what’s happening locally. Residents often post about events, local news, or general experiences, giving you a sense of the community dynamics and engagement.

Pro tip: Search for Instagram photos tagged in specific locations to see what locals are up to. This is a great way to discover hidden gems in the neighborhood, like parks, markets, or cafes.

6. Local News Outlets and Blogs

Local news sites and community blogs can provide insight into the neighborhood’s recent developments, community events, and future projects. They help you stay updated on what's happening in the area, from construction projects to neighborhood festivals.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on upcoming developments that could influence property values or change the neighborhood’s dynamics in the future.

7. Virtual Tours and Online Community Engagement

Many apartment communities, including Reside Living, offer virtual tours, making it easy to explore your potential new home from anywhere. These tours often highlight not only the apartment itself but also amenities, shared spaces, and nearby features, giving you a broader understanding of what living there will be like. Additionally, some neighborhoods host virtual town halls or community meetings, which can give you insight into how active and engaged the local residents are.

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Moving to Chicago? Here’s Your Complete Checklist 🏙️📦

By Naecha Roberts • March 18, 2026

So, you’re thinking about moving to Chicago - exciting choice! From iconic neighborhoods and endless food options to world-class culture and lakefront views, the Windy City has a little something for everyone. To help make your move as smooth as possible, we’ve put together a complete Chicago moving checklist, filled with practical tips and helpful resources to guide you from apartment hunting all the way to settling into your new home. Whether you’re relocating from out of state or just moving across neighbourhood lines, this guide will help you stay organised and confident every step of the way.

Chicago skyline at dusk featuring the John Hancock Center towering over dense city buildings and the Lake Michigan shore.

Lincoln Park vs. Lakeview: Which Neighborhood Fits Your Lifestyle?

March 13, 2026

If you’re exploring apartments in Lincoln Park and Lakeview, this guide will help you decide which neighborhood aligns best with your lifestyle.

Best Chicago Neighborhoods to Live In (That Aren’t Downtown)

February 24, 2026

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.