Lakeview Chicago Apartments

Situated on the North Side of Chicago, this is one of the city's most dynamic and beloved neighborhoods for renters due to the thousands of apartments for rent at any given time. It's framed by the Southport Corridor to the west and the calm waters of Lake Michigan to the east, creating a mix of cultural and recreational activities that are as inclusive as they are exciting. Lakeview is a magnet for a diverse population and is home to young professionals, starter families, and a significant LGBTQ+ community.  

Geographically speaking, Lakeview stretches from Diversey Parkway on the south to Irving Park Road on the north, with its western boundary along Ravenswood Avenue and eastern front facing Lake Michigan. The neighborhood covers several zip codes, including parts of 60613 and 60657, offering a mix of residential options, from historic homes to chic modern apartments.

Lakeview is one of the more youthful neighborhoods in Chicago and arguably the most densely populated with apartments at all price points. It’s where young professionals settle in to enjoy outdoor activities, an active food and bar scene, and connect with other progressively like-minded folks. Walking around the area, you’ll be charmed by the mix of residential streets, historic greystones on tree-lined streets, modern apartments and condominiums, and high-rise apartments along the lake that provide stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Many of these apartments are close to its bustling commercial districts, making those quick dinner dates or afternoon workouts super easy to get to.

Well-known for landmarks like Wrigley Field and The Music Box on Southport, the population here is a mix of sports fanatics, theater lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and foodies. Its streets are lined with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, mostly independent businesses, that serve the needs of its eclectic populace.

Lakeview is also home to many schools and parks, giving it a comfortable vibe that inspires people to settle down and raise families. This combination of convenience, culture, and community makes it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods to live in.

Find Apartments in Lakeview Chicago

When searching for apartments here, renters should be conscious that this is a vast Chicago neighborhood, so choosing the desired area is essential. 

In east Lakeview, towards Lake Shore Drive and overlooking Lake Michigan, most apartments for rent along Lake Michigan are high-rise buildings, mostly built from the 1950s to 1970s. Lakeview East Apartments have limited amenities but chiefly offer location and jaw-dropping views of the lake and the Chicago skyline. The side streets off of Lake Shore Drive and Sheridan Road, like Aldine, Roscoe, Surf, Oakdale, Wellington, Briar, Barry, Stratford, Melrose, Cornelia, Grace, Hawthorne, etc., are lovely tree-lined streets with an assortment of four-plus one buildings, vintage buildings, boutique condominium buildings with condos for rent, new apartments, single-family homes for rent, and many dog-friendly apartments. The side streets generally continue west to Broadway and Halsted, providing quick access to central stores, boutiques, restaurants, and public transportation. The best CTA bus options exist primarily along Lake Shore Drive and Sheridan Road, with fast express and local bus routes north and south to downtown, Gold Coast, and the Chicago Loop.

Apartments in the central section of this neighborhood are primarily in smaller vintage buildings like four-plus-one buildings, two- and three-flat buildings, classic Chicago courtyard buildings, and lovely boutique condominium buildings with condos for rent, townhouses for rent, and some single-family houses for rent. This part is loaded with primarily independently-owned stores, entertainment options, bars, easy access to public transportation, and beautiful quiet side streets lush with trees. This central area encompasses Wrigley Field, Wrigleyville, and Boystown.

Apartments situated near the western border of the neighborhood are close to adjacent neighborhoods like Roscoe Village, North Center, Graceland West, and Hamlin Park. In this section of the neighborhood, streets are more tranquil, with many large single-family homes for rent, two-flat buildings, several loft buildings, and much less crowded. This part of this North Side Chicago neighborhood is also home to the Southport Corridor, a stretch of retail shops along Southport St from Belmont to Irving Park Road. The legendary Music Box theater anchors this charming section of Southport; the street is loaded with independently owned shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars.

This neighborhood is often associated with its most famous landmark, Wrigley Field. The ballpark at the corner of Addison and Clark has created a micro-neighborhood aptly named Wrigleyville out of the surrounding taverns and restaurants. If you love baseball, there are apartments for rent right across from Wrigley Field to guarantee that you will be a part of every home game. It has much more to offer renters besides the boisterous street scene during the days and nights when baseball, concerts, or other events are happening at Wrigley Field.

Boystown Chicago represents a large section of the the area and is home to one of the nation's largest LGBTQ community areas. The geographic boundaries of Boystown, Chicago, are generally considered Broadway or Lake Michigan to the east, Sheffield to the west, Wellington Ave to the south, and Irving Park Road to the north. There are many beautiful apartments for rent in Boystown. Some are above the bars, restaurants, and boutiques along Halsted, and many more are in small Greystone buildings, courtyard buildings, and three flats that line the tree-lined streets just off Halsted. 

It is home to the trendy shopping district along the Southport Corridor, where high-end retail and boutique shops mingle with restaurants and cafes. There are many things to do, ranging from its nearly 2-mile stretch of lakefront to its friendly restaurants, lively theaters, and concert venues. The iconic Music Box Theater is excellent for catching arthouse films or classic cinema. The Vic, another old-school theater, is great for concerts or their signature Brew n' View screenings of cult classic movies.

Demographics of Lakeview Chicago

This north-side neighborhood is home to approximately 98,000 residents, who are students, young professionals, and families. Known for its significant LGBTQ+ community, this is one of the more progressive areas of Chicago. The median age is around 31 years, slightly younger than the Chicago citywide average. The median household income is $88,000 annually, with a mix of middle to high-income residents.

Weather in Lakeview Chicago

The weather here is much like the rest of Chicago, experiencing the full breadth of four distinct seasons. Summer can be warm and humid, with temperatures often rising into the high 80s (°F). Fortunately, being on the lake means cool breezes, providing a little relief on those sweltering days.

Winters are cold and snowy, with temps frequently dropping below freezing. The lake doesn’t help, with sharp winds that make the cold feel even more intense. For newcomers, especially those from warmer areas, there’s no such thing as being overprepared with winter gear!

Spring and fall are when this neighborhood offers a prime experience, with comfortable temperatures and less humidity. We slog through the humid summer and biting winter for these seasons, which are ideal for enjoying the many outdoor amenities, such as its parks and lakefront paths.

Overall, anyone moving here should be prepared for a well-rounded weather experience.

Amenities in Lakeview Chicago

Local Shopping and Restaurants

If you love shopping and eating, then this north-side neighborhood is for you. With the bustling retail options along North Broadway and the Southport Corridor, you’ll have everything you need within your neighborhood. Here, there’s everything from big names like Target and Gap to boutique shops that sell unique clothing, gifts, and home decor. For groceries, you can go big with Trader Joe's, Jewel, and Whole Foods or small with corner stores and farmers markets.

Dining in Lakeview is equally fantastic, with cuisines from all over the world that cater to every vibe you’d want. Fancy brunch? Check. Dress-up dinner? Check. Quick tacos? Check. Post-workout smoothie? Check!

Notable dining spots include the always-popular Mia Francesca for Italian fare, D.S. Tequila Co. for lively Mexican dishes, and the neighborhood staple, The Bagel Restaurant & Deli. The neighborhood also has an exciting array of bars and pubs, such as Sidetrack, with its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, and The Brew & View at the Vic Theatre, perfect for when you want to drink as you take in a film.

Best Restaurants in Lakeview Chicago

• Mia Francesca
• D.S. Tequila Co. T
• he Bagel Restaurant & Deli
• Coda Di Volpe
• Tango Sur Crisp
• Wood

Best Coffee Shops in Lakeview

• The Coffee & Tea Exchange
• Julius Meinl
• Heritage Coffee & Bicycle
• Intelligentsia Coffee

Best Bars in Lakeview

• Sidetrack
• Murphy’s Bleachers
• The Brew & View at the Vic
• Schubas Tavern
• Sheffield’s Beer & Wine Garden
• Roscoe's

Entertainment and Recreational Activities

As a cultural hotspot, there’s something here for everyone. The Belmont Theater District will be entertainment-central for the theater buffs, with performances from avant-garde productions to mainstream musicals. Book lovers will enjoy flipping pages at the many independent bookstores, which are host to readings, poetry slams, and sidewalk sales.

Of course, with the lake on the edge of the neighborhood, there is plenty of green space for picnics, leisurely strolls, and all manner of outdoor activities. The nearby Lincoln Park provides enough landscaped gardens, sports fields, and serene ponds to make your feet sore and is right next to the Lincoln Park Zoo. The Lakefront Trail is another highlight, with beautiful routes for biking and running along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Parks in Lakeview

• Lincoln Park
• Waveland Park- which includes the Sydney Marovitz Public Golf Course
• Gill Park
• Hawthorne Place Park
• Belmont Harbor Dog Beach

Museums in Lakeview

• Chicago History Museum (just outside Lakeview boundaries)
• Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (close to Lakeview)

Transportation in Lakeview

Transportation here is highly efficient, offering multiple options that cater to commuters, residents, and visitors alike. If you have someplace you need to be, there are quite a few ways to get there. The neighborhood is well-served by several CTA train lines, which provide easy access to downtown Chicago and other areas.

For more localized travel, this neighborhood has a sprawling network of CTA bus routes that meander through the neighborhood. For those who prefer two-wheeled transportation, this area is bike-friendly and has numerous Divvy bike stations.

But, let’s not forget the drivers! The proximity to Lake Shore Drive offers quick access to Chicago's downtown and northern suburbs, while the nearby Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94) opens up travel to the wider Chicago area.

Access to Expressways in Lakeview

• Lake Shore Drive access along the eastern edge of Lakeview
• Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94) to the west

CTA Bus Routes in Lakeview

• 8 Halsted
• 22 Clark 36 Broadway
• 77 Belmont
• 151 Sheridan

Metra Train Stops in Lakeview

• Ravenswood Metra Station (on the UP-N line, a short distance west of Lakeview)

Distance to the Loop and other Notable Locations

Lakeview is about 5 miles north of the Chicago Loop, making it a quick trip to the city's central business district and major attractions.

Here are distances from this neighborhood to other notable locations in Chicago:

• Wrigley Field - located within the neighborhood
• Lincoln Park Zoo - approximately 2 miles south
• Millennium Park - 5 miles south
• The Chicago Loop - 5 miles south
• Navy Pier - 6 miles southeast
• Soldier Field - 6.5 miles southeast
• United Center - 6.7 miles southwest
• Guaranteed Rate Field - 8 miles south
• Midway International Airport - 15 miles southwest
• O’Hare International Airport - 14 miles northwest

Parking in Lakeview

Finding parking in here depends significantly on the area, time of day, and whether events are taking place, especially near Wrigley Field. Street parking is a mix of free, permit, and metered, and paying attention to signs will become second nature.

Metered parking is common along commercial streets, and you can pay at the meter or through the Park Chicago App. Residential areas often require a parking permit, though some have windows of time when non-residents are invited to take up space.

If circling to find parking gives you anxiety, there are a few garages and lots, which can be located via parking apps like SpotHero. Another thing to consider when home-hunting is that many residential buildings provide on-site parking, with outdoor, covered, unheated, or even heated options available. It's definitely something to keep an eye out for, depending on the area.

For students and teachers, check out the campus-specific parking regulations and availability to get an idea of what options are available.

Schools and Higher Learning Institutions in Lakeview

Public, Private, and Charter Schools in Lakeview

• Agassiz Elementary School
• Alcott Elementary School
• Alphonsus Academy
• Augustus H Burley Elementary School
• Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School
• Cardinal Bernardin Montessori Academy
• Chicago City Day School
• Fredrich Jahn Public School
• Gardner School of Lincoln Park
• Hamilton Elementary School
• Hawthorne Scholastic Academy
• Horace Greeley Public School
• Inter-American Magnet School
• James G Blaine Elementary School
• James G Blaine Elementary School
• John James Audubon Elementary School
• John V La Moyne Public School
• Lake View High School Mary Meyer School
• Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy
• Park View Montessori School
• Chicago Prairie Academy
• Prairieland Montessori School
• Saint Andrew School
• Saint Clement School
• Saint Luke Academy
• St Andrew School
• The Nettelhorst School
• William H Prescott Elementary School

Universities, Colleges, and Other Higher Learning Institutions in Lakeview

• DePaul University (Lincoln Park Campus nearby): Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Illinois Institute of Art: Focused on various art and design programs.

Local Events in Lakeview

This neighborhood is all about community-oriented events and festivals, celebrating everything from music and culture to food and crafts. One of the area's most iconic events is the Chicago Pride Parade, which draws massive crowds each June and runs through the neighborhood. The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts is another highlight, inviting local and national artists to share their creations with the community every September.

The Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest kicks off the summer festival season with live bands and local vendors and takes place near the heart of the neighborhood. Music lovers also mark their calendars for the Wrigleyville Summerfest, which has live bands, food trucks, and family-focused activities.

The Northalsted Market Days is another major event, proudly taking the title as the largest street festival in the Midwest. With 300,000 people dancing along to live music, shopping among hundreds of vendors, applauding outrageous drag performances, and enjoying the eclectic atmosphere, this event is celebrated by the LGBTQ+ community and allies.

Real Estate in Lakeview

Overview of the Real Estate Apartment Market

This is one of Chicago’s most sought-after residential areas, largely due to its proximity to downtown, excellent public transit options, and lively cultural scene. Real estate options are as plentiful and diverse as the area's population, with vintage condos, modern luxury apartments, and stately townhouses all ready to be swooped up and filled with love.

Because our winters are so brutal, availability tends to be highest in the spring and summer months. After all, who wants to move during a snowstorm?!

Rental Rates and Popular Apartment Styles

The apartment market here features many housing styles, from charming courtyard buildings and traditional three-flats to modern high-rise apartments. Whether you want to live with views of the lake or become a part of the neighborhood's historic districts, like the Southport Corridor, the options are abundant.

Some of the more popular styles of apartment buildings are:

• Greystones and Brownstone: These are typically three-story homes built with distinctive grey limestone or brownish sandstone. They feature ornate detailing, bay windows, and high ceilings and are often renovated to combine that old-world charm with new-age tech.
• Courtyard Buildings: Courtyard apartments are common and an excellent option for those who love socializing with their neighbors. Arranged around a central courtyard, you can lounge, play games, and get to know everyone in your building on a more personal level.
• Three-Flats: These buildings contain three separate apartments stacked vertically, typically one per floor. They are a staple in Chicago neighborhoods, offering a prime balance of privacy and density, with each unit having separate entrances.
• Mid-Rises and High-Rises: As the neighborhood has developed, more modern mid-rise and high-rise apartment buildings have been built, especially along the lake with jaw-dropping views. These are for residents who want more than just an apartment to rest their head. With amenities like fitness centers, pools, roof decks, and social rooms, you’ll really feel like you’re living in the city.

The median apartment rent in here depends on property type and location. For example, one-bedroom apartments range around $1,600 to $2,500 per month, while two-bedroom units can go for $2,000 to $3,500 per month, depending on the level of luxury and amenities. Larger apartments or townhomes big enough for families or shared among students and young professionals are also available but not as common.

The apartments for rent offer something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a cozy vintage apartment or a modern unit in a full-service building, you’ll find it here, making it clear why this is one of Chicago's most dynamic and desirable neighborhoods.  Read about understanding all of the detailed costs of renting an apartment in Chicago.

Popular Apartment Buildings in Lakeview

• The Belmont by Reside: This renovated building marries modern amenities with vintage style and is located near the bustling nightlife of East Lakeview. Just a quick jog from Lake Michigan, it offers studio to three-bedroom apartments, a fitness center, and a rooftop deck.
• Halsted Flats: As one of the newer additions to Lakeview, this building is all about luxury living. Complete with a pool, a large sun deck, a dog park, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, it’s location is prime for those who enjoy the vibrant North Halsted area.
• Reside on Surf: This classic building has all the charm of vintage architecture with the convenience of modern renovations. Located in East Lakeview, it provides easy access to both the lakefront and the commercial corridors.
• The Van der Rohe: A landmark building located close to Lincoln Park and Diversey Harbor, this apartment has spacious layouts with incredible park and city views and includes amenities like a fitness center and on-site management.
• Park View Apartments: Situated right where its name suggests, overlooking Lincoln Park, you’ll enjoy spectacular views, a fitness center, and a rooftop deck. Its proximity to the park and Lake Michigan makes it a great spot for those who love being outdoors.
• Irving Courts by Reside: Located in West Lakeview, these apartments give a quiet residential feel with the convenience of city amenities. Like most buildings in Lakeview, the units feature modern interiors with a vintage touch.
• 555 Cornelia Apartments: These apartments are on the more affordable end of the spectrum, but without forgoing convenience. Head to the rooftop deck for a great view, or do your laundry in-building after your jog at the nearby lake.

Future Development in Lakeview

Things are always moving in Lakeview! Several projects are in the pipeline to enhance residential, commercial, and public spaces. Here are some more highly anticipated developments expected to shape the future:

• Lincoln Avenue Development Project: This ambitious plan involves revitalizing Lincoln Avenue, turning it into a more pedestrian-friendly corridor with new retail spaces, restaurants, and modern apartments.
• The Lakeview Collection: A mixed-use development that proposes luxury condominiums, retail spaces, and green public areas. Located near the heart of the hood, the goal is to blend high-end residential options with vibrant street-level activity.
• Wrigleyville Enhancements: Building on the recent renovations around Wrigley Field, further developments are planned to include new hotels, office spaces, and entertainment venues. These enhancements aim to turn Wrigleyville into a year-round destination beyond baseball season.
• Transit Improvements: With the high dependency on public transit, improvements to the CTA stations, including accessibility upgrades and modernization of Belmont and Addison stations, are on the agenda. Enhanced bus services and bike lanes are also being considered, much to the applause of cyclists.

Lakeview has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s. Originally an area of lush greenery and farmland, it was quickly transformed into a thriving residential and commercial hub due to its proximity to Lake Michigan and expanded streetcar lines from downtown. The area also became known for its action-packed theater and nightlife scene, particularly in the Belmont Theater District. Notorious bank robber and Public Enemy No. 1 John Dillinger had a brief romance with Evelyn "Billie" Frechette. Billie's sister had a Lakeview apartment at 3512 N Halsted St, where Dillinger would often go to hide from the authorities.

View more History in Lakeview