Near West Side Chicago Apartments

The Near West Side is more than just a neighborhood, it's a collection of distinct communities, each with its own flavor. This area encompasses several well-known Chicago ‘hoods, including parts of the West Loop, Greektown, Little Italy, Fulton River Market, University Village, and the Illinois Medical District. From the rumble of the L to the quiet of leafy side streets, this area packs in city excitement and residential calm. Vintage walkups and gleaming high-rises offer renters a spectrum of choices, all within earshot of cheering United Center crowds or the sizzle of Little Italy's kitchens. Here, your morning coffee might come from a hip roastery or a decades-old diner. With so many communities under one umbrella, variety truly is the spice of Near West Side life.

Demographics of Near West Side

Home to about 60,000 residents with a median age of 32, the Near West Side is a mix of young professionals, families, and lifelong locals. 

Savings accounts here range from student-slim to comfortably padded, with a median household income of $65,000. Nearly half the residents have college degrees, thanks partly to UIC's brainy influence. Housing-wise, it's 60% renters and 40% homeowners, so while there are plenty of apartments to choose from as people come and go, there’s also the comfortable feel of stability that comes with having a retired neighbor who grew up in their home.

Weather in Near West Side

The weather in Near West Side is Chicago through and through - unpredictable and full of character. Summer brings block parties and impromptu gatherings in shady parks. Fall paints the neighborhood in reds and golds, perfect for bundled-up walks to local coffee shops. Winter is when cozy bars become second living rooms, and snow-dusted streets turn magical. Spring bursts onto the scene with blooming trees and the return of sidewalk cafes.

Location of Near West Side 

The Near West Side sits just west of the West Loop, offering prime real estate with easy access to downtown's hustle and bustle. It's close to some of Chicago's most iconic spots, making it a sought-after location for renters who want to be in the thick of things.

Downtown Chicago is practically in your backyard, just a quick 10-minute drive or 15-minute train ride away. The United Center is right in the neighborhood, so you have no excuse to miss any games. You're also a short hop from the West Loop's restaurant row, Fulton Market's trendy scene, and the relaxing greenery of Garfield Park Conservatory.

Transportation in Near West Side 

Access to Highways 

I-290 (Eisenhower Expressway) cuts right through the southern part of the neighborhood, offering a straight shot to the western suburbs or downtown. I-90/94 (Kennedy/Dan Ryan Expressway) is just to the east, connecting you north to Wisconsin or south to Indiana.

CTA Bus Routes in Near West Side 

Buses crisscross the area, and key routes include the 20 (Madison), 49 (Western), and 66 (Chicago), among others. These can take you pretty much anywhere you need to go in the city.

Metra Train Stops in Near West Side

While there's no Metra stop directly in the Near West Side, the Ogilvie Transportation Center is just east in the West Loop. From there, you can catch trains to the western and northwestern suburbs.

Parking Options and Availability

Street parking can be a bit of a treasure hunt, especially near popular spots or during events at the United Center. Many apartment buildings offer dedicated parking for residents, which can be a real lifesaver. There are also several public parking lots and garages around, but heads up: parking costs can take a bite out of your wallet. It's definitely something to keep in mind when you're crunching numbers for your Chicago apartment budget.

What to Do in Near West Side 

Local Shopping in Near West Side

Shoppers from all over Chicago flock to the Near West Side, hunting the racks of big-name retailers and quirky local boutiques for that perfect find. Maxwell Street Market, a Sunday staple since 1912, has everything from vintage finds to fresh produce. It's the kind of place where you might score a rare vinyl record right next to a bag of just-picked apples.

For those "oops, I'm out of toothpaste" moments, Target on Jackson Boulevard has your back. And when you need to pamper yourself, Ulta on S Halsted St is beauty heaven. But the real gems are tucked away in local boutiques. PILLARS is where streetwear meets high fashion, Leaders 1354 keeps you ahead of the style curve, and Tribeca Boutique is the go-to for that perfect "where did you get that?" outfit.

Restaurants in Near West Side 

Foodies, this neighborhood’s for you. Little Italy's Taylor Street serves up authentic Italian at spots like The Rosebud and Tuscany on Taylor. For a taste of Greece, head to Greektown's Halsted Street and try Levain Bakery or Greek Islands. Craving something more modern? Au Cheval on Randolph Street is famous for its burgers, and health-conscious eaters can chow down at Sweetgreen on Madison Street.

Coffee Shops in Near West Side 

Caffeine fiends have plenty of options here. Metric Coffee Co. on Fulton Street roasts their own beans and offers a sleek, industrial vibe. FROTH is super stylish, Nohea Café serves coffee alongside specialty groceries, and Star Lounge Coffee Bar on Chicago Avenue is perfect for those who like their coffee with a side of local art and music.

Nightlife in Near West Side 

The Near West Side's nightlife scene is a non-stop party, with something for every mood and taste. Music lovers can rock out at Bottom Lounge on Lake Street, where the lineup spans from indie darlings to hip-hop heavyweights. Craft beer enthusiasts head to Haymarket Pub & Brewery on Randolph Street, where the taps flow with house-brewed goodness and the vibe is always buzzing. For those nights when you're feeling fancy, The Press Room on Randolph Street beckons with its underground speakeasy charm and craft cocktails that are practically works of art.

But that's just scratching the surface. From comedy clubs to dance halls, wine bars to late-night diners, the Near West Side keeps the good times rolling long after the sun goes down. Whether you're bar-hopping with friends or seeking that perfect date-night spot, this neighborhood sometimes provides too many options.

Museums in Near West Side 

The Near West Side has quite a few cultural institutions that will keep your weekends interesting and info-packed. Those who love the past head to the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum on Halsted Street, where Chicago's social reform legacy comes alive. Nearby, the National Hellenic Museum transports visitors to ancient Greece with its impressive collection of artifacts and engaging exhibits. Art lovers shouldn't miss the National Museum of Mexican Art in nearby Pilsen which showcases Mexican culture and creativity. Sports fanatics can relive iconic moments at the Chicago Sports Museum on Chicago Avenue, while the Illinois Medical District Guest House on Polk Street gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into medical history.

Parks in Near West Side 

Green spaces abound in the Near West Side, offering grassy sanctuaries for residents seeking a break from city life. Union Park, spanning nearly 14 acres, is the neighborhood's meeting spot. With a pool, baseball fields, and tennis courts, it's also the go-to grounds for major summer festivals. Skinner Park provides a more intimate setting with its playground and basketball courts, perfect for family outings and romantic picnics. Arrigo Park has serene walking paths, ideal for leisurely strolls or morning jogs. Dog owners and families gravitate towards Mary Bartelme Park, appreciating the pet-friendly areas and children's play spaces. Sheridan Park rounds out the outdoor options with its own baseball fields and playground.

Events in Near West Side 

Summer kicks off with the Taste of Randolph Street, a culinary extravaganza featuring local restaurants and live music. Union Park becomes jampacked in July thanks to the Pitchfork Music Festival, as the Little Italy Festa transforms Taylor Street. The neighborhood raises a glass at the Chicago Craft Beer Festival, and August brings the lively Greektown Fest to Halsted Street. Art lovers won’t have to wait too long to explore local talent at the West Loop Art Fest in September, and for a year-round activity, the Maxwell Street Market is a popular Sunday outing, either for stocking up on the week's groceries or adding a few choice pieces to your wardrobe.

Real Estate In Near West Side 

Overview of the Real Estate Market in Near West Side 

The Near West Side's apartment rental scene is a mix of old-school cool and modern flair. This neighborhood has been buzzing with new apartment developments, making it a hot spot for renters of all stripes. Young professionals, families, and long-time locals all find their niche here. With its amazing location near downtown and a local vibe that's hard to beat, apartments in this area don't stay vacant for long. Thinking about making the move? Our guide to Chicago living can help you hit the ground running.

Rental Rates in Near West Side

Renting an apartment in the Near West Side offers options for various budgets, though prices reflect the area's popularity. As of 2023, studio apartments average $1,200 to $1,500 per month, while one-bedroom apartments typically range from $1,500 to $2,000. Two-bedroom apartments command $2,000 to $3,000, with luxury options stretching beyond $3,500. Three-bedroom rentals start around $2,500 and can exceed $4,000 for high-end properties.

It's worth noting that prices can fluctuate based on factors like proximity to public transit, building amenities, and recent renovations. Renters should also budget for move-in fees, renters insurance, and utilities, which are often not included in the rent. With all these considerations, knowing how much you can afford is the first step to finding your dream home.

Popular Housing Styles in Near West Side 

The Near West Side shows off nearly every type of architecture that you can find in Chicago. Classic Chicago three-flats and Greystones line many residential streets, offering vintage charm with modern updates. These walk-ups, often dating back to the early 1900s, feature spacious units with high ceilings and original woodwork.

For those seeking contemporary living, sleek mid-rise and high-rise buildings have sprung up, particularly in areas closer to downtown. These newer developments feature amenities like fitness centers, rooftop decks, and concierge services.

Converted lofts in former industrial buildings are also popular, providing unique living spaces with exposed brick and timber beams. Single-family homes, while less common, can be found in pockets of the neighborhood, ranging from restored Victorian-era houses to modern townhomes.

Schools and Higher Learning Institutions In Near West Side 

Public, Private, and Charter School Options 

Whether you have kids or are looking to hit the books yourself, the Near West Side is fully equipped to boost brain power.

On the public school front, Skinner West Elementary and Whitney Young High School are standouts. Skinner West's gifted program is excellent, while Whitney Young consistently ranks among the top schools in Illinois. Stem Magnet Academy and Galileo Scholastic Academy focus on STEM subjects, and Andrew Jackson Language Academy offers strong language programs.

For private education, St. Ignatius College Prep has a long-standing reputation for academic rigor and the Chicago Academy for the Arts balances college prep with arts education. Holy Family School and De La Salle Institute round out the Catholic school options in the area.

Charter schools like Chicago Tech Academy High School and Legacy Charter School provide alternative public education, emphasizing technology and college preparation respectively. KIPP One Academy and Chicago Virtual Charter School offer additional choices for families seeking different educational approaches

University, College, and Others Higher Learning Institution Options 

The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) is the big kahuna, sprawling across 244 acres like a city within a city. It has more programs than your TV guide (if those were still a thing). For the future doctors and nurses, Rush University is where it's at. Malcolm X College is perfect for those who want to dip their toes in higher ed or are aiming for a healthcare career. And if you've ever dreamed of being the next Gordon Ramsay, Kendall College of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management is your ticket to culinary stardom. Last but not least, the Illinois Institute of Technology's Institute of Design is where innovation goes to innovate. In fact, it's so cutting-edge it makes paper cuts jealous.

History In Near West Side 

The Near West Side's history is a microcosm of Chicago's urban development. This area, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, has been pivotal in shaping Chicago's cultural and economic landscape since the mid-19th century.

In the 1850s, the neighborhood became a major settlement for European immigrants. Irish immigrants, fleeing the potato famine, were among the first to arrive, followed by Italian and Greek communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These waves of immigration established enclaves that still define parts of the neighborhood today, particularly Little Italy along Taylor Street and Greektown on Halsted Street.

The Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which devastated much of the city, largely spared the Near West Side. As a result, the area retains some of Chicago's oldest buildings, including many Italianate and Greek Revival structures dating back to the 1860s and 1870s. In 1889, Jane Addams and Ellen Gates Starr founded Hull House at the corner of Halsted and Polk Streets. This settlement house became the epicenter of social reform in Chicago, offering educational programs, childcare, and advocacy for immigrants and the working class. Hull House's impact extended far beyond Chicago, influencing social work and community organizing across the nation.

The early 20th century saw the Near West Side become a hub for industry and transportation. The construction of rail yards and factories brought jobs but also pollution and overcrowding. The Maxwell Street Market, established in the late 19th century, became a thriving open-air market and a symbol of the area's entrepreneurial spirit. Post-World War II urban renewal efforts significantly impacted the Near West Side. The construction of expressways and the University of Illinois at Chicago campus in the 1960s led to the displacement of many residents and the demolition of historic structures.

In recent decades, the Near West Side has experienced substantial redevelopment. The transformation of Fulton Market from a meatpacking district to a tech and culinary hotspot exemplifies this change. The area around the United Center, built in 1994, has also seen significant development. Today, the Near West Side stands as a testament to Chicago's resilience and diversity, blending historic preservation with modern urban development. Its story continues to evolve, reflecting broader trends in urban renewal, gentrification, and community preservation.

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Ready to Call the Near West Side Home? 

As you consider making the Near West Side your new home, we're here to help you every step of the way. Check out our comprehensive tenant resources for valuable information on renting in Chicago, including tips on lease agreements, renters' rights, and more.

Want to explore other Chicago neighborhoods? Our neighborhood guides provide in-depth looks at various areas across the city, helping you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Whether you're new to Chicago or a long-time resident looking for a change of scenery, Domu is here to be your trusted partner in navigating the Windy City's rental market. Happy apartment hunting!