Lincoln Square is one of those rare Chicago spots that blends big-city adventure with a charming, small-town feel. This compact but action-packed neighborhood gives a taste of urban living coupled with plenty of quiet, tree-lined streets that make you feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.

With its dense collection of vintage courtyard buildings, stately greystone apartments, and cozy coach houses divided into flats, Lincoln Square is an apartment hunter's paradise. The buildings here run the gamut from renovated beauties with all the modern bells and whistles to lovingly maintained walkups that ooze vintage charm. You'll find everything from affordable studios to sprawling family-sized rentals. And while deals can be tough to come by in this desirable pocket, the larger layouts often found in Lincoln Square make the higher rents a bit easier to swallow.

But it's not just the housing stock that draws folks to this Northwest Side enclave. The true heart of Lincoln Square lies along Lincoln Avenue, where a distinctly European-style square bustles with boutique shops, buzz-worthy restaurants, and lively sidewalk cafes. With a conveniently located Brown Line station just steps away, it's the ultimate self-contained "village in the city."

The neighborhood's cultural amenities are just as impressive. The gargantuan Lincoln Park library branch anchors one corner, while the acclaimed Old Town School of Folk Music calls another home. This unique arts institution offers a staggering array of classes, concerts and the annual Chicago Folk & Roots Festival held in the 15-acre Welles Park right next door.

While Lincoln Square has evolved over the decades, it still proudly honors its German roots through touches like the annual Oktoberfest celebrations. But it's the many cultures, from the longstanding Jewish and Mexican communities to an influx of newcomers from across the globe, that lends this little pocket its distinct personality. Lincoln Square is proof that you can have it all in one fun, walkable neighborhood.

Lincoln Square may be a cozy neighborhood today, but it has an architectural legacy that looms large. This Northwest Side enclave is home to the final completed work of none other than Louis Sullivan, the legendary "father of modernism" who helped define the Chicago School of Architecture.

As you stroll down Lincoln Avenue, one building is sure to catch your eye. The stunning Krause Music Store, with its bold terra cotta ornamentation and striking design, was Sullivan's swan song. Completed in 1922 near the end of his illustrious career, it showcases the innovative genius that made him one of the most influential architects of the modern era.

While Sullivan's most iconic creations like the Auditorium Building downtown are grand and imposing, the Krause Music Store has an understated elegance that complements the charming character of Lincoln Square. It's a true point of pride for locals, serving as both a tangible link to Chicago's storied architectural past and a centerpiece of the neighborhood's vibrant shopping district.

But Sullivan's imprint isn't the only noteworthy piece of Lincoln Square's origins. The area got its name and distinct German flair from the wave of German immigrants who settled here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. What was once a patchwork of cabbage farms soon blossomed into a tight-knit community that celebrated its heritage through churches, social clubs, and of course, plenty of beer gardens.

So whether you're admiring the Krause Music Store's ornate details, raising a stein at the annual Oktoberfest celebration, or just soaking in Lincoln Square's old-world ambiance, you're experiencing a neighborhood where history's fingerprints are very much present. Moving into an apartment in Lincoln Square and walking through your new neighborhood is like returning to Chicago's rich architectural and cultural past.

View more History in Lincoln Square

Seven miles north of the Loop, Lincoln Square evokes a small town feeling within the city. Lincoln Square, Chicago, is bounded by Foster Ave on the North, Leavitt Street on the East, Montrose Ave on the South, and the Chicago River on the West. Is Lincoln Square part of Ravenswood? Ravenswood is the larger neighborhood, often considered to encompass the smaller community of Lincoln Square. Together, Lincoln Square and Ravenswood neighborhoods extend to Bryn Mawr Ave and Peterson Ave on the north and Ravenswood Ave on the east. The larger area includes the Bowmanville, Budlong Woods, and Ravenswood Manor communities.

This little Northwest Side neighborhood definitely packs a punch when it comes to diversity. With a population hovering around 40,000, Lincoln Square is a true melting pot. The area draws a solid mix of young professionals putting down roots, families who've called these streets home for generations, and active retirees who know a good thing when they see it.

Money-wise, the median household income lands around $75,000 annually. Not too shabby for a city neighborhood! Despite Lincoln Square's popularity, what really stands out is just how relatively affordable housing remains. With apartments in Lincoln Square ranging in price from $1300 to $3000, renters of all budgets can find a great spot to rest their head at night.

As you stroll the leafy side streets, you'll catch snippets of conversations in German, Spanish, Russian and more languages than you can count. The neighborhood has deep roots tracing back to its historically German foundations and long-standing Mexican and Jewish communities. But these days, Lincoln Square welcomes newcomers from all over the world, creating an eclectic smorgasbord of cultures.

No matter your age or background, you're virtually guaranteed to find your crew in Lincoln Square. The neighborhood's multi-generational vibe means plenty of young energy alongside families with kids in tow and active older adults who've lived here for decades. It's that "everyone's welcome" spirit that makes this little pocket so special.

When it comes to Midwestern weather, Lincoln Square provides the full experience. Summer ushers in plenty of sun and humidity, with temps often camping out in the 80s (and the occasional stint in the 90s when heat waves roll through). These gorgeous months have locals flocking to sidewalk cafes, backyard BBQs, and the area's lush parks and gardens.

Come fall, that famous Chicago chill starts to set in as the trees put on their dazzling show of crimson and gold foliage. There's nothing quite like an afternoon stroll admiring the colors as you breathe in that crisp autumn air. Of course, once winter descends, you'll want to bundle up tight! Freezing temps and the season's inevitable snowfall are par for the course. But rather than hibernate, Lincoln Square folks tend to embrace winter's icy charm through outdoor skating parties, cozy pub sessions by the fireplace, and rambunctious neighborhood snowball fights.

Then, just when you've had it with being a human icicle, spring swoops in to save the day! As trees blossom and temperatures cruise into the 60s and 70s, it's like the whole neighborhood heaves a big sigh of relief. You'll find everyone emerging from their winter cocoons and spilling onto patios and parks to soak up that long-awaited sunshine.

Local shopping and dining options

Lincoln Square's prime location puts a mouthwatering buffet of dining and shopping options right at your fingertips. The neighborhood's main artery, Lincoln Avenue just south of Lawrence, is a busy strip teeming with boutiques, cafes, and some of the city's best eateries. Whether you're in the mood for classic German fare, inventive new American cuisine, or global flavors, you'll find it here. The adjacent stretch of Western Avenue offers even more delicious options to explore.

For a true taste of Lincoln Square's culinary prowess, you'd be remiss not to hit up some neighborhood standbys. Lutz Bakery is an authentic German gem drawing raves for its strudel, Black Forest cake, and other Old World delights. On the Italian front, Caro Mio beckons with its rustic vibe and perfect Neapolitan-style pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven. Just down the street, Spacca Napoli is another don't-miss for exquisite handmade pastas and regional specialties. And for baked goods crafted from locally-milled grains, Bagel Miller Bagels takes artisan bread and pastries to new heights. Dining your way through Lincoln Square's acclaimed restaurant scene is a quintessential local experience.

And no Lincoln Square day is complete without a stop at Groundswell Coffee Roasters on Damen. This airy cafe is a neighborhood favorite for its perfect brews and delightful ambiance.

Nightlife in Lincoln Square

After fueling up at one of Lincoln Square's incredible eateries, the neighborhood's lively nightlife scene kicks into high gear. This pocket transforms after dark into a buzzing hub of local watering holes and nightspots. The Lincoln Square Taproom is a definite hotspot, serving up a staggering selection of craft beers and hosting weekly events like trivia nights. For a classic dive bar vibe, Ricochets can't be beat. You'll find jovial regulars bellying up to the well-worn bar trading stories over cheap beers, good tunes, and dart competitions.

If craft cocktails are more your speed, The Victor Bar and The Bad Apple deliver on the mixology front with their innovative, meticulously prepared libations. Both spots also feature cozy, dimly lit interiors perfect for date nights or catching up with friends over a carefully curated drink menu. Whether you're a beer lover, cocktail connoisseur, or just in the mood for a fun night out, renting an apartment in Lincoln Square means being in the center of the fun.

Entertainment and recreational activities

Lincoln Square was practically built for play and recreation. At the heart of it all is the iconic Old Town School of Folk Music, a beloved cultural institution hosting concerts, dances, and its famous music classes for kids and adults alike. More of an outdoorsy type? The neighborhood's park system has you covered with acres of green space perfect for picnicking, pick-up sports games, or just soaking up some sunshine on the lawns.

Come summer, the fun moves outside with events like outdoor theater performances, movies under the stars, and lively community festivals and street fairs. And for families, Lincoln Square offers no shortage of kid-friendly diversions like playgrounds, spray pools, and the whimsical nature trails and gardens sprinkled throughout the parks. From musical adventures to getting in touch with nature, this exciting neighborhood delivers on the entertainment and recreation fronts. •

Parks in Lincoln Square

Lincoln Square is an urban oasis when it comes to green spaces and parks. Locals are spoiled for choice with a handful of lush retreats sprinkled throughout the neighborhood. Winnemac Park offers acres of athletic fields and playground areas, while River Park's winding trails along the Chicago River provide a scenic escape.

Families flock to the climbing structures and spray pools at Vogle Playlot Park on warm days. The historic Sunken Gardens Park features beautiful flower beds and a quaint English garden vibe. Meanwhile, Gross Park hosts concerts and movies under the stars come summer. You'll also find athletic facilities galore at the expansive Horner Park, not to mention the lovely gardens and nature trails of Jacob Park.

Museums in Lincoln Square

While Lincoln Square may be a relatively small neighborhood, it packs a big cultural punch when it comes to museums. Leading the pack is the DANK-Haus German American Cultural Center. This unique institution celebrates the area's German roots through exhibits, language classes, lectures and more. It's also home to an authentic German beer hall that hosts lively events and concerts year-round.

Beyond that, Lincoln Square is just a short trip away from some of Chicago's world-class museum heavyweights. The Chicago History Museum explores the city's fascinating past, while the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum offers an indoor look at the region's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Art aficionados can get their fix at the Renaissance Society gallery on the University of Chicago campus showcasing cutting-edge contemporary works. Thanks to Chicago’s amazing public transportation network, moving within Lincoln Square and to other area’s is just a quick trip.

Getting around Lincoln Square is an absolute breeze no matter your mode of transportation. No matter where your new apartment in Lincoln Square sits, this accessible neighborhood puts you just steps from world-class city transit while still offering the convenience of driving when you need it.

Access to Highways

• Lake Shore Drive (U.S. Route 41) to the east - Lawrence or Montrose Ave exits
• Kennedy Expressway (I-90) to the west - Lawrence Avenue exit, east toward Lake Michigan

CTA Bus Routes in Lincoln Square

• 11 Lincoln
• 49 Western 
• 49B Western
• 50 Damen
• 78 Montrose
• 81 Lawrence

Metra Train Stops Near Lincoln Square

• Ravenswood Station of the Union Pacific North Line

Distance to the Loop and Other Notable Locations

Lincoln Square's prime location makes it a short hop to some of Chicago's biggest attractions. You're just 8 miles northwest of the Downtown Loop, an easy 25-minute 'L' ride away on the Brown Line. Other highlights within a 5-mile radius include Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park Zoo, Northerly Island, and the Magnificent Mile shopping district.

• Wrigley Field - 2.7 miles southeast
• Lincoln Park Zoo - 5.6 miles southeast
• United Center - 7 miles south
• O’Hare International Airport - 10.4 miles west
• Navy Pier - 8.3 miles southeast
• Millennium Park - 9 miles southeast
• The Loop - 9.5 miles southeast
• Soldier Field - 10.5 miles southeast
• Guaranteed Rate Field - 11.5 miles southeast
• Museum of Science and Industry - 15.8 miles southeast
• University of Chicago - 16.2 miles southeast 
• Midway International Airport - 17.6 miles southwest

Parking in Lincoln Square

While walkable Lincoln Square and nearby transit options make going car-free a no-brainer, having your own set of wheels is also quite convenient in this neighborhood. Street parking is relatively easy to find on residential side streets, especially with the daytime restrictions in place. Many apartment buildings also offer lots or garages for tenant use.

The neighborhood's main commercial strips of Lincoln and Western Avenues have reasonably priced public lots and garages like:

• Lincoln Village Parking Garage
• Lincoln Square Car Park
• Facilities operated by Spot Hero and ParkChirp apps

So whether you choose to drive, train, bus, bike, or hoof it, renting an apartment in Lincoln Square puts you in a supremely accessible location.

Public, Private, and Charter Schools in Lincoln Square

Little ones just starting their educational journeys have an enviable array of options right in the Lincoln Square neighborhood. Adler Schools provide a play-based, whole child approach in their bright and airy early childhood centers. For the elementary set, public schools like Lyman Budlong offer a top-notch district education, while institutions like North Park Elementary and Queen of Angels impart values-based private school curriculums.

Families seeking an alternative philosophy can explore unique offerings like the Montessori method at Montessori Gifted Prep or the naturalistic, arts-integrated approach of the Waldorf School. The acclaimed Northside College Prep feeds into nearby high schools renowned for their academic rigor. And for families looking to infuse language and cultural immersion, options like Lycee Francais Chicago and the German-English St. Matthias School deliver.

Other standout elementary/middle school picks include the intimate Eliza Chappell School, the diverse Ravenswood Montessori, and the well-rounded St. Hilary's. The private North Shore Junior Academy carries students through 8th grade with a focus on character development. And let's not forget the progressive Waters School, a project-based learning pioneer. No matter your educational philosophy, chances are you'll find the perfect fit for your kids right in Lincoln Square.

• Adler Schools
• Eliza Chappell School
• Lycee Francais Chicago
• Lyman Budlong Public School
• Montessori Gifted Prep School
• Northside College Prep School
• North Park Elementary School
• North Shore Junior Academy
• Pilgrim Lutheran
• Ravenswood Montessori School
• Queen of Angels Elementary School
• St. Hilary's Elementary School
• St. Matthias School
• Waldorf School
• Waters School

University, College, and other Higher Learning Institutions

While Lincoln Square itself doesn't have any major university campuses within its boundaries, this neighborhood is conveniently located near some of Chicago's top colleges and institutions of higher learning. Just a few miles southeast, you'll find the University of Chicago campus straddling the Hyde Park and Woodlawn neighborhoods. One of the world's preeminent research universities, UChicago offers a stellar array of undergraduate and graduate programs.

A bit closer to home, North Park University brings a private, Christian liberal arts education to the Albany Park neighborhood adjacent to Lincoln Square. This charming campus offers close professors-student mentorship. Nearby Northeastern Illinois University is another accessible public option with diverse academic offerings. When it comes to specialty schools, Lincoln Square residents have distinctive choices like the Old Town School of Folk Music right in their backyard. This world-renowned cultural institution provides music, dance, and arts instruction for all ages. The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center offers intensive training in yoga philosophy and lifestyle.

The Swedish American Museum provides opportunities to connect with Scandinavian heritage through exhibitions and classes, while the improvisational mecca of Second City's Training Center allows students to hone their comedy chops steps from Lincoln Square. With incredible city resources like these just minutes away from your Lincoln Square rental, higher learning is easily accessible.

Overview of the Real Estate Market

Lincoln Square's real estate market is as diverse as the neighborhood itself, with a long list of options for renters at every stage of life. This affordable yet exciting pocket has become a hotspot for apartment hunters seeking value, charm, and unbeatable amenities right at their doorstep.

For renters, Lincoln Square serves up a healthy mix of housing options. Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments are readily available in vintage walk-ups, contemporary mid-rise buildings, and the area's signature brick courtyard properties. These versatile layouts suit everyone from single professionals to growing families. Three-bedroom apartments are less common but can be found with a diligent search. And while spacious four-bedrooms are the unicorns of Lincoln Square, they do occasionally pop up for those willing to move quickly!

What really sets Lincoln Square apart is the character and quality you get for your rental dollar. Hardwood floors, sunrooms, decorative fireplaces; these vintage architectural touches abound in the neighborhood's housing stock. Yet many properties have been comprehensively updated with modern amenities like stainless steel appliances and in-unit laundry. With its tree-lined streets and quiet residential enclaves, Lincoln Square delivers a peaceful urban oasis just steps from the dining, nightlife, and cultural hotspots along Lincoln Avenue.

No matter if you're renting an artsy loft or a sprawling three-bedroom in Lincoln Square, you can expect to find an incredible mix of housing coupled with a true sense of community pride. It's a rental market that truly offers something for everyone in this uniquely Chicago neighborhood.

Rental Rates and Popular Housing Styles

Lincoln Square offers some of the best rental values on Chicago's North Side, with rates staying relatively affordable even as the neighborhood's popularity has soared. Currently, you can expect to pay around $1,600 for a vintage one-bedroom apartment or $2,300 for a modern two-bedroom rental. That said, luxury developments and larger units can push prices up over $3,000.

In terms of housing styles, Lincoln Square has it all! The quintessential neighborhood rental is the classic courtyard apartment building with charming vintage details. Sleek new mid-rise developments with amenities like gyms and roof decks have also popped up. Spacious loft conversions and attractively updated condos are popular as well.

You'll also find:

• Cozy coach houses and greystone multi-flats (perfect for couples/small families)
• Bright, updated apartments in vintage walk-ups
• Sprawling single-family homes and two/three-flats (ideal for larger households)

One-bedrooms remain a hot ticket for single young professionals seeking an affordable haven in Lincoln Square's walkable core. Couples and families tend to gravitate toward the larger two- and three-bedroom options the neighborhood has to offer.

No matter your style or space needs, you're virtually guaranteed to find the perfect Lincoln Square rental to call home among the area's incredibly diverse housing stock.

Popular Apartment Buildings in Lincoln Square, Chicago

• Rockwell Manor Apartments: This vintage courtyard building exudes old-world charm with its beautifully maintained common spaces and updated units featuring hardwood floors and sunrooms.
• The Westerner Apartments: Modern amenities meet historic details at this newly renovated apartment community boasting stainless steel appliances, in-unit laundry, and an attractive brick exterior.
• 4551-4553 N Claremont Apartments: Spacious layouts and great value draw renters to these no-frills yet well-maintained walk-up apartment buildings.
• Wilson Manor Apartments: Renters seeking luxury finishes and a pet-friendly community flock to this newer construction mid-rise with its contemporary common areas and amenities.
• 2520 West Leland Apartments: Charm oozes from every corner of this renovated vintage greystone, with coveted features like decorative fireplaces and sunrooms.
• 4756 North Maplewood Apartments: This quiet enclave of apartments offers urban living at its most peaceful, surrounded by tree-lined streets and Lincoln Square's top attractions.
• Bell & Lawrence Apartments: Walk to it all from these modernized apartments situated at a prime Lincoln Square intersection near shops, dining and transit.
• 4801-4809 North Fairfield Apartments: Families love the sprawling multi-bedroom layouts and grassy courtyards at this well-maintained complex.
• Gunnison & Talman Apartments: Blending contemporary and vintage aesthetics, this sleek newer development attracts style-conscious renters with its industrial-chic finishes.

Future Development in Lincoln Square

Lincoln Square is an evolving neighborhood, with new developments in the pipeline that promise to boost this already thriving area. Several mixed-use projects are slated to bring new residential, retail, and community spaces along the Lincoln Avenue corridor, and a vacant lot near Western and Leland Avenues is being prepped for a multi-story apartment complex that will add hundreds of modern rental units. While growth is on the horizon, residents can take comfort knowing any new construction will need to complement Lincoln Square's historic character and charm through smart urban design. The neighborhood's pedestrian-friendly layout and abundance of parks and green spaces will also be preserved and enhanced moving forward.

Conclusion

With its idyllic mix of small-town ambiance and big-city amenities, Lincoln Square truly shines as one of Chicago's most delightful neighborhoods. Its tree-lined streets, distinctive dining and nightlife, abundant parks, and cultural attractions all come together to create an urban oasis of excitement and community spirit. And let's not forget Lincoln Square's incredibly diverse housing stock. Whether you crave vintage character, modern luxury, or unbeatable value and space, you'll find the perfect rental to call home here.

If Lincoln Square is piquing your interest, be sure to explore all the incredible apartment options available through Domu. Our up-to-date listings provide an inside look at vacancies in the neighborhood's most sought-after buildings. With high-quality photos, amenities info, and detailed neighborhood guides at your fingertips, finding your new Lincoln Square home is just a click away!