Boystown Apartments

Location and Boundaries of Boystown

Boystown sits pretty in the heart of Lakeview, roughly bounded by Belmont Avenue to the south, Irving Park Road to the north, Broadway to the east, and Sheffield Avenue to the west. It's a compact neighborhood that packs a punch, with Lake Michigan just a short stroll away. This prime location means you're never far from the action, whether you're craving a night out or a peaceful lakeside morning. While the neighborhood's name was officially changed to Northalsted in 2021, you'll still hear many locals affectionately referring to it as Boystown.

Boystown Vibe

As the oldest officially recognized gay neighborhood in the US, Boystown pulses with energy. From the thumping beats of late-night clubs to the cheerful chatter of brunch spots, the spirits stay high in this ‘hood. It's a place where you'll find drag queens grabbing coffee next to joggers and where Pride isn't just a month; it's a way of life. The atmosphere is welcoming and electric, making it a magnet for young professionals, creatives, and anyone who thrives in a community of love and acceptance. •

Heart of the Boystown

Halsted Street is the lifeblood of Boystown, a strip that comes alive with neon lights as the sun sets. By day, it's dotted with unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and LGBTQ-owned businesses. As night falls, the street transforms into a playground of bars and clubs. But Boystown isn't all fun and games; it's also home to the Center on Halsted, a community center that offers immense support and many resources for the LGBTQ+ community. This mix of entertainment and community engagement gives Boystown its distinctive character as a place to party and thrive while also building a strong support network.

Best Way to Get Around Boystown

Ditch the car keys, Boystown is a walker's paradise with a near-perfect Walk Score. The neighborhood's compact layout means everything you need is just a short skip away. For longer trips, the CTA will take you all over Chicago. The Red Line stops at Belmont and Addison, whisking you downtown in minutes. Buses crisscross the area, and for the eco-conscious, Divvy bike stations can be found as you wander. When the weather's nice, don’t be surprised if you see locals zipping around on electric scooters or rollerblades.

What We Love Most in Boystown

What sets Boystown apart is its unapologetic zest for life. It's a neighborhood that wears its heart on its sleeve, or rather, on every lamppost, storefront, and sidewalk. We love the sense of community here; neighbors know each other, and there's always a fundraiser or community event to get involved in. The food scene is amazing, with everything from greasy spoon diners to upscale fusion restaurants. And the entertainment is endless, from drag brunches at Kit Kat Lounge to live performances at the Laugh Factory Chicago. In Boystown, there's always something to do, someone to meet, and a reason to smile.

Overview of Boystown

Boystown is like Chicago's glitter-dusted playground, with Halsted Street being the center of attraction. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of bars, shops, eateries, colorful murals, and charming characters. By day, there’s folks sipping lattes at The Coffee & Tea Exchange or browsing vintage finds at Beatnix. As the sun sets, the energy ramps up, and locals can be found boppin’ along at Sidetrack's show tune nights and kickin’ up their heels at Roscoe's.

Wander off Halsted, and you’re suddenly immersed in tree-lined residential streets with beautiful vintage apartments and modern condos. The neighborhood is active, but there’s also a relaxing, sigh-of-relief side to it as well. Home to cozy bookstores like Unabridged and community spaces like Center on Halsted, you’re never too far from a quiet corner or a lively dance floor.

If Boystown wants to be known for anything, it's their ability to throw an unforgettable event. From the raucous Northalsted Market Days in summer to the heartwarming Pride Fest, the days of having an empty calendar will be long over if you choose Boystown as your little slice of Chicago heaven.

Demographics of Boystown, Chicago

While it's known as an LGBTQ+ hub, the neighborhood welcomes residents from all walks of life. You'll find a mix of young professionals, long-time residents, and families all living, working, partying, relaxing, and thriving together.

The median age hovers around 35, so there’s a youthful vibe here that’s hard to miss. It's a highly educated crowd, with many residents holding bachelor's degrees or higher, and while income levels vary, the neighborhood tends to attract middle to upper-middle-class residents.

Weather in Boystown, Chicago

Living in Boystown means experiencing Chicago weather in all its... unpredictable glory. Summers are a dream: warm, sunny, and perfect for people-watching from a sidewalk cafe. Expect temperatures in the 70s and 80s, with the occasional heatwave pushing into the 90s.

Fall is gorgeous but fleeting. For a few weeks, the trees lining residential streets burst into reds and golds. It's sweater weather at its finest and ideal for sipping pumpkin spice lattes at Intelligentsia or strolling through nearby Wrigleyville.

Winter? Well, let's just say you'll want to invest in a good coat. Temperatures often dip below freezing from December through February, and snow is a given. But, in perfect Boystown fashion, this means that twinkling holiday lights and colorful decorations go up, and cozy nights sipping cocktails at Replay Lakeview go down.

Spring is Chicago's wildcard season. One day, you're bundled up; the next, you're in shorts. But when it finally settles in, the neighborhood comes alive. Suddenly, everyone's brunching outside at Ann Sather or picnicking in nearby Lincoln Park.

No matter the weather, Boystown's energy never dims. There's always a warm welcome waiting, come rain, shine, or polar vortex.

Amenities in Boystown, Chicago

Local shopping and dining options

Boystown has enough shopping and grub to keep you busy (and full) for years. Halsted Street is the beating heart of it all – a candy-colored strip of boutiques and eateries that'll make your wallet beg for mercy. If you need to fill out your new walk-in closet, check out Cram Fashion for trendy menswear or Beatnix for one-of-a-kind costume pieces. Unabridged Bookstore is packed with written nourishment for bookworms and has a fantastic LGBTQ+ section.

When hunger strikes, Boystown delivers. Dive into comfort food at Ann Sather (those cinnamon rolls are legendary), or grab a slice at Si-Pie PIzzeria. For fancy date nights (or impressing the parents), Wood is hard to beat with its farm-to-table menu and cozy atmosphere. And don't miss the drag dining experience at Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club - it's dinner and a show!

Nightlife in Boystown

Folks, Boystown after dark is where the magic happens. This 'hood doesn't just come alive at night, it straps on six-inch heels and kicks down the door.

Sidetrack is the granddaddy of gay bars, a multi-level labyrinth of video screens and strong drinks. Their show tune nights are like Broadway ramped up, and you haven't lived until you've bellowed "Don't Rain On My Parade" with 200 of your closest drunk friends.

Roscoe's is where you go to dance until your feet cry uncle. The patio is prime real estate on summer nights, but grab a spot early or prepare to perfect your sad puppy eyes.

For cocktail snobs (no judgment, we've all been there), Progress Bar mixes drinks so pretty you almost don't want to drink them. Almost. And Replay Lakeview is a nostalgia trip with a designer beer list. Nothing says "adulting" quite like sipping craft brews while demolishing your friends at Ms. Pac-Man.

Entertainment and recreational activities

Theater and comedy buffs, get ready for a treat. The Laugh Factory Chicago on Broadway serves up side-splitting stand-up that'll have you in stitches. For a different kind of show, swing by Hydrate Nightclub on weekends for their famous drag brunches. It's the perfect mix of fabulous performances and mimosas. And if you're in the mood for some classic theater with a queer twist, keep an eye out for special performances and readings at the Center on Halsted. They often showcase works by LGBTQ+ playwrights and performers.

Now, I know it’s not technically in Boystown, but the Music Box Theatre is so close and so cool that it deserves a shout-out. This vintage movie palace is where film geeks go to heaven. Indie flicks, foreign films, and midnight screenings of "The Room", it's got it all.

For the gym rats among us, Quads Gym will make you sweat in style. If running is more your speed, there’s the Lakeview Run Club, so strap on your shoes and make some new friends! Or, if you prefer team sports, the Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association has more LGBTQ+ leagues than you can shake a stick at. Dodgeball, anyone?

But the real magic happens in summer. Northalsted Market Days turns the whole neighborhood into one giant party. It's like Pride met a street festival and had a fabulous baby. Speaking of Pride – honey, you haven't seen a parade until you've seen Chicago Pride. It's big, it's loud, and it's more fun than riding a rainbow-colored unicorn and leaving behind a sparkly glitter trail.

Parks in Boystown, Chicago

Boystown isn't exactly a green space paradise, but we have some great spots within walking distance.

Belmont Harbor is just a hop, skip, and a fabulous jump away. It's where the joggers strut their stuff, and the sailors show off their sea legs. There’s the Bill Jarvis Bird Sanctuary, Belmont Harbor Dog Beach, tennis courts, softball fields, and even an archery range. It's the perfect spot for a romantic picnic or a "whoops, I accidentally wore my cutest outfit to casually walk by my crush" moment.

For the full-on park experience, Lincoln Park is your go-to. This place is huge, with nearly 1,200 acres of green goodness. You've got the zoo (which is FREE, by the way), the conservatory (for when you want to pretend you're in a tropical paradise), and enough trails to make your Fitbit have a meltdown.

Museums in Boystown

While Boystown doesn’t have any typical museums, we do have the Legacy Walk, a half-mile stretch decorated with 20 rainbow pylons, each one telling the story of an LGBTQ+ icon. It's education and celebration rolled into one colorful, outdoor ‘museum-ish’ package. There’s also the Center on Halsted, which often hosts art exhibitions that'll make you think, feel, and occasionally go "huh?" in that good, artsy way.

Now, if you're itching for those big-name museums, Boystown is just a quick L ride away from the Art Institute (where you can see some famous paintings and pretend to understand modern art) and the Field Museum (where you can say hi to Sue the T-Rex).

Living in Boystown means you're never far from a cultural experience, whether it's highbrow, lowbrow, or no-brow. It's all here (or close by), you just have to werk it.

Transportation in Boystown, Chicago

Getting around Boystown and the broader Chicago area is generally convenient, thanks to a mix of public transit options and decent road connections. Here's what you need to know about moving about in this festive neighborhood.

Access to highways

While Boystown itself isn't directly adjacent to major highways, it's not too far from key routes. Lake Shore Drive, with its scenic views of Lake Michigan, is just a few blocks east and is an excellent north-south option for quicker travel along the lakefront.

You can also take the I-90/94 (Kennedy/Edens Expressway), which is about a 10-minute drive west. This route takes you to O'Hare International Airport, the northern suburbs, and provides a path to Wisconsin for weekend getaways.

CTA Bus and Train Routes in Boystown

When it comes to buses, the 36 Broadway is a north-south lifeline, zipping along Broadway from Uptown to the Loop. If you need to go east-west, grab a seat on the 77 Belmont or the 78 Montrose.

The CTA Red Line train stations at Addison and Belmont are the most popular for getting to destinations around town.

But the real MVP is the 8 Halsted bus. This trooper runs 24/7, which means you've always got a ride home, no matter how late you're out enjoying Boystown's nightlife.

Metra Train Stops in Boystown

Okay, full disclosure: Boystown doesn't have its own Metra stop. And while we’re not really within walking distance (unless increasing your step count is part of your travel plans), we're not far from the action either. The Ravenswood Metra station on the Union Pacific North line is the closest, being a 10-minute drive or a quick bus ride away. It's there when you need it for those suburban adventures or reverse commutes.

Distance to downtown and other notable locations

Here's where Boystown really shines. It’s close to everything, yet far enough away to avoid the worst of the tourist crowds.

Downtown Chicago (The Loop) is about 15-20 minutes away via the Red Line or express buses. Wrigley Field, home of the Cubs and impromptu street parties, is practically our neighbor, at just a 20-minute walk north. O'Hare Airport is about 45 minutes to an hour away by car or train, while Midway is about an hour. But with so much to do in the neighborhood, you might find yourself staying put more often than not. 

Parking options and availability

Parking in Boystown is about as challenging as finding a quiet moment on Halsted Street during Pride. Street parking is available, but it can be competitive, especially on weekends or during events. Most streets require a residential parking permit, so if you're moving here, get friendly with the City Clerk's office ASAP.

There are a few public parking lots scattered around, particularly near major intersections. They're handy, but they'll cost you more than that fancy cocktail at Sidetrack. Many apartment buildings offer parking for an additional fee. It's not cheap, but neither is the stress of circling the block for the tenth time looking for a spot.

If you can swing it, consider going car-free. Between the solid public transit, bike lanes, and the fact that everything you need is within walking distance, you might find that car ownership is more hassle than it's worth. Plus, think of all the money you'll save for important things. Like trying every brunch spot in the neighborhood.

Schools and Higher Learning Institutions in Boystown

Public, private, and charter school options

While Boystown is more famous for its nightlife and community spirit, it does have a few educational options within its borders and nearby.

Public Schools

Nettelhorst Elementary School is located on Broadway and is Boystown's neighborhood public school. It serves students from pre-K through 8th grade. Nettelhorst has a reputation for its strong arts program and inclusive environment. It's not uncommon to see rainbow flags flying alongside the American flag here.

The Chicago Public Schools system serves Boystown, with a few notable institutions in the area:

• Inter-American Magnet School (Pre-K to 8): Just a stone's throw away, this school offers a dual language program that'll have your kids speaking Spanish faster than you can say "Donde está la Biblioteca?"
• Lake View High School: A bit north of Boystown, this school has been churning out bright minds since 1874. Fun fact: It's the second-oldest public secondary school in Chicago, which means it's been educating teens longer than deep-dish pizza has been feeding them.

Private Schools

For those who prefer their education with a side of uniforms, there are some private options in the vicinity:

• Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy (Pre-K to 8): This Catholic school on Belmont Avenue has been a part of the neighborhood for over a century. Serving students from pre-K to 8th grade, it's known for its rigorous academics and strong sense of community. Don't be surprised if you see students in uniforms grabbing after-school snacks at the local cafes.
• Chicago Waldorf School: A bit further out but worth mentioning. If you want your kid to learn math through interpretive dance (I'm exaggerating, but only slightly), this might be your jam.
• Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School: This Jewish day school (K-8) is among the top schools in Chicago.

Charter Schools

While there aren't any charter schools directly in Boystown, there are a few options in nearby neighborhoods:

• Chicago Math and Science Academy: For the little Einsteins and Curies in your life.
• Noble Network of Charter Schools: They've got several campuses around the city, focusing on college prep and character development.

University, college, and others higher learning institution options

Although Boystown doesn't have any colleges within its boundaries, we're surrounded by some great institutions:

• DePaul University: Just a quick L ride away in Lincoln Park. Known for its business and theater programs, it's perfect for those who want to learn how to balance books or belt show tunes.
• Truman College: Part of the City Colleges of Chicago system, it's just up north in Uptown. Great for associate degrees and specialized certifications.
• School of the Art Institute of Chicago: A bit further but easily accessible. This is for when you want to turn your ability to doodle into a full-blown art career.
• Northwestern University: Technically, Northwestern University is in Evanston, but its Chicago campus is just a few miles away. Highly ranked and highly selective, it's for when you want that Ivy League vibe without the East Coast winters.
• Loyola University Chicago: Up in Rogers Park, it's known for its lakefront campus and strong programs in areas like business and law.

Local Events in Boystown, Chicago

Boystown knows how to throw a party, and its event calendar is packed year-round. Here are some highlights:

• Chicago Pride Fest and Parade (June): The crown jewel of Boystown events. A weekend-long festival followed by one of the largest pride parades in the world.
• Northalsted Market Days (August): A massive street festival featuring live music, food vendors, and local artisans. It's like Pride's slightly more relaxed summer cousin.
• Northalsted Halloween Parade (October): Where else can you see hundreds of elaborately costumed revelers take over the streets?
• Chicago Pride Bowl (June): An LGBTQ+ flag football tournament that brings teams from across the country.
• Drag Matinees at Kit Kat Lounge (Year-round): Every Sunday, brunch gets a fabulous upgrade with performances by talented drag artists.

Remember, in Boystown, any evening can turn into an event. Keep an eye out for special nights at local bars and impromptu community gatherings.

Real Estate in Boystown, Chicago

Overview of the real estate market

Boystown's rental market is as diverse as the neighborhood itself. Tucked into the broader Lakeview area, this LGBTQ+-friendly hub has a great mix of housing options for nearly every taste and budget. You'll find everything from cozy studios in vintage walk-ups to luxurious units in modern high-rises. Many buildings feature character-filled details like bay windows and hardwood floors, while others offer sleek, contemporary designs with all the latest amenities.

As of 2024, Boystown is still hot property. People are clamoring to live here, drawn to the lively community, proximity to the lake (hello, beach days!), and the fact that you can stumble home from Sidetrack without needing an Uber. Public transit is a breeze, and you're never more than a stone's throw from great food and entertainment.

Now, we won't sugarcoat it, all this fabulousness comes at a price. Boystown real estate often commands a premium. Fortunately, the variety of housing types means there's usually something for every budget, from cozy studios to luxury pads with views for days. Just be prepared to act fast, as the best deals tend to get snapped up quickly. Take a look at Domu’s Rent Calculator to dial in your budget, and our Guide for Moving to Chicago to help you get a jumpstart on your apartment search.

Rental rates and popular housing styles

Let's break down what you can expect to shell out for a piece of the Boystown pie:

• Studios: $1,300 - $1,600/month (perfect for minimalists or those who spend more time at the bars than at home)
• One-bedrooms: $1,800 - $2,500/month
• Two-bedrooms: $2,400 - $3,700/month (ideal for roommates or couples who need a home office/glam room)
• Three-bedrooms: $2,900 - $5,100+/month (great for friend groups or those with a serious shoe collection)

Remember, these are averages. Your mileage may vary depending on factors like location, amenities, and how recently the place was featured on an HGTV renovation show.

As for housing styles, Boystown has a big range:

• Vintage Walk-Ups: Charming old buildings with more personality than a RuPaul's Drag Race reunion episode.
• Modern Apartments: For those who like their homes like they like their cocktails – sleek and fancy.
• Converted Lofts: Former industrial spaces turned into apartments bigger than some suburban houses.
• Greystones and Brownstones: Classic Chicago-style homes that'll make you feel like you're living in a movie set.
• Single-Family Homes: They exist! They're rare! They're the unicorns of Boystown real estate!

Popular Apartment Buildings in Boystown, Chicago

If you're into the whole "amenities and lobby with a doorman" scene, check out these popular spots:

• The Barry: Modern digs on Barry Avenue with a rooftop deck perfect for sunbathing or stargazing.
• The Halsted: Right in the heart of the action on Halsted Street. Live here and you'll never miss a beat (or a street fest).
• 3450 North Lake Shore Drive: Technically just outside Boystown, but with lake views so good you won't care about technicalities.
• Pinecrest Apartments: A vintage charmer on Pine Grove Avenue for those who like their apartments with a side of history.
• The Belmont by Reside: Where historic architecture meets modern interiors on Belmont Avenue.

Future Development in Boystown

Boystown, like much of Chicago, is always evolving. While preserving its unique character and LGBTQ+ heritage, the neighborhood is seeing some exciting developments:

The Howard Brown Health Center is expanding its Halsted Street location, enhancing healthcare services for the LGBTQ+ community.

There's talk of upgrading some of the aging infrastructure along Halsted Street, potentially bringing improved lighting and wider sidewalks for those bustling weekend crowds.

A few new mixed-use developments are in the planning stages, promising to bring more residential units and retail spaces to the area.

Keep an eye out for community meetings if you want to have a say in how Boystown grows and changes!

Conclusion

From its wild nightlife to its welcoming community, Boystown offers a unique living experience that's hard to match elsewhere in Chicago. Whether you're drawn by the lively social scene, the convenient location, or the neighborhood's rich LGBTQ+ history, your new neighbors will welcome you with open arms.

Sure, the rental market can be competitive, and prices might make your eyes widen at first. But for many, the energy and sense of belonging that Boystown provides make it well worth the monthly investment.

Ready to find your perfect spot in this rainbow-hued corner of Chicago? Don't wait, the best apartments in Boystown tend to get snatched up faster than you can say "Pride Parade." Head over to Domu now and start your search. With our extensive listings and neighborhood insights, you'll be well-equipped to find an apartment that feels like home in the heart of Boystown.

Remember, Domu is more than just listings, it's your key to unlocking the best of Chicago's neighborhoods. So what are you waiting for? Your new Boystown adventure is just a click away!

The rainbow of Boystown began its arc in the 1960s and early 1970s. During this time, LGBTQ+ individuals began moving into this section of Lakeview, drawn by affordable rents and a growing sense of community. It wasn't an immediate transformation, as the area was still primarily working-class, with a mix of ethnic groups. But slowly, gay-owned businesses started popping up, creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ folks to be themselves.

When the 1980s rolled in, this is when Boystown truly came into its own. As the AIDS crisis hit, the community banded together, establishing support networks and advocacy groups. This period of hardship paradoxically strengthened Boystown's identity and resolve. Organizations like Howard Brown Health Center (founded in 1974) became lifelines, providing healthcare and support to many LGBTQ+ individuals.

In 1987, a significant milestone was reached with the founding of the Northalsted Business Alliance. This organization of LGBTQ+ business owners worked tirelessly to promote and develop the area, laying the groundwork for Boystown's official recognition.

That hard work paid off in the 1990s, a decade which brought a wave of progress. In 1997, Mayor Richard M. Daley made history by officially designating a section of North Halsted Street as an LGBTQ+ neighborhood, the first such recognition in the United States. This was more than just a symbolic gesture; it put Boystown on the map and paved the way for city investments. For instance, in 1998 there was the installation of the now-iconic rainbow pylons along North Halsted Street. These 20-foot tall markers, adorned with rainbow rings, celebrate LGBTQ+ pride and serve as an outdoor history museum, with plaques honoring notable figures in LGBTQ+ history.

As the new millennium dawned, Boystown continued to evolve. The Center on Halsted, a comprehensive LGBTQ+ community center, opened its doors in 2007, providing support services, cultural programs, and community events. This state-of-the-art facility symbolized how far the neighborhood (and Chicago itself) had come from its early days.

Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Boystown has been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ rights battles. When same-sex marriage was legalized in Illinois in 2013 (and nationwide in 2015), the neighborhood erupted in celebration. Pride Parade, which has been a fixture since 1970, grew from a small march into one of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the country, drawing over a million attendees annually.

In recent years, Boystown has faced new challenges and conversations. There's been a push for greater inclusion, particularly for LGBTQ+ people of color and the transgender community. In 2020, amid discussions about inclusivity, the Northalsted Business Alliance announced that while Boystown would remain the neighborhood's nickname, they would move away from using it in official marketing. So, if you hear it also referred to as Northalsted, that’s why!

Today, Boystown stands as a testament to decades of struggle, celebration, and progress. It's a neighborhood that honors its past and doesn’t shy away from continually evolving to meet the needs of its diverse community. From those early pioneers seeking a safe haven to today's mix of long-time residents and newcomers, Boystown's history is still being written, one rainbow flag at a time.