Ukrainian Village Chicago Apartments

Ukrainian Village is a distinctive Chicago neighborhood that balances its historical roots with modern upgrades. The area features a mix of architectural styles, from century-old churches to modern apartments, and along the main streets you'll find all types of businesses, from family-owned delis to independent boutiques, and trendy restaurants.

The neighborhood's Ukrainian heritage is evident in its cultural institutions, such as the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art and the Ukrainian National Museum. These sit alongside newer additions to the community, like the trendy eateries Homestead on the Roof and Damen Tavern, creating a unique blend of traditional and modern influences.

Local parks like Commercial Club Playground and Smith Park offer green spaces for residents, while Chicago Avenue serves as the main commercial strip, home to a variety of shops and restaurants.

Location of Ukrainian Village

Ukrainian Village carves out its own little world between Division and Chicago, Western and Damen. It's an area of Chicago that feels like it exists in its own timezone; not quite as hectic as downtown, but definitely not sleepy either.

Demographics of Ukrainian Village

Ukrainian Village has quite a diverse population, which is a beautiful reflection of the greater Chicago area. The median age is 32, so most of your neighbors will be on the younger side. However, there are plenty of folks who grew up here and stayed, so conversations that start with “when I was young” are not too uncommon. On one side of you there might be a young family just putting down roots, on the other, a retired couple ready to swoon you with homemade goodies and tales of a younger town.

The median household income is approximately $75,000, but there's a wide range among residents. This can be seen in the variety of housing options, which range from affordable apartments to higher-end condos and single-family homes.

Weather in Ukrainian Village

Ukrainian Village weather is pure Chicago, so expect the unexpected! Unpredictable, dramatic, and never boring, if you love a little confusion in your clothing choices, you’ll fit right in.

Summers hit like a warm bear hug, with temps soaring into the 80s. The neighborhood buzzes as locals spill onto patios, parks fill with picnickers, and the sound of laughter mingles with sizzling grills at impromptu block parties.

Fall sneaks in like a cat, all cool and colorful. The tree-lined streets become a canvas of reds and golds, and you can almost taste the pumpkin spice in the air. It's sweater weather, perfect for browsing the pastry section at New Pierre Pastry Shop or sipping a craft beer at J&M Tap.

During the winter, the mercury plummets, snow piles up, and the wind whips down Chicago Avenue like it's got a grudge. But locals take it in stride, trading summer's street fests for cozy nights at Rainbo Club or steaming bowls of borscht at Shokolad.

Spring is the neighborhood's comeback kid. As the snow melts, Ukrainian Village shakes off winter's chill. The first warm day brings everyone out, eager to feel the sun on their faces and swap hibernation stories over coffee at Dark Matter.

One thing that never seems to end is that famous Chicago wind. In Ukrainian Village, it's got a clear path to mess up your hair, thanks to the low-rise buildings. But hey, that's just part of the charm, right? Just hold onto your hat and keep walking, there's always a warm welcome (and maybe a hot pierogi) waiting around the corner.

Amenities in Ukrainian Village, Chicago

Local shopping and dining options

Along Chicago Avenue, you'll find some great shops to become a familiar face at. Boutiques like Alcala's Western Wear, a staple since 1972 and known for its cowboy boots and hats, will have you ready to hop on a wild steed in no time. Komoda is filled with unique gift items and disguised as a hardware store, and if you have pets, they are going to love a trip to Doggy Style Pet Shop.

When it comes to food, I hope you can get used to going to bed stuffed. Shokolad Pastry & Cafe serves up authentic Ukrainian dishes and pastries. If you’re in the mood for excellent Mexican cuisine, Salsa Picante won’t disappoint. Old Lviv Restaurant has a homey, old-world vibe that’s sure to put a smile on your face, while Fatso’s Last Stand is a popular spot for a pre-game dog.

Nightlife in Ukrainian Village

The Empty Bottle on Western Avenue is the neighborhood's music scene, hosting indie and underground acts nightly. For a more relaxed evening, EZ Inn is known for their jukebox and beer-&-a-shot deals, and Star Bar is a great place to catch the ball game. Rainbo Club, a longstanding dive bar on Division (technically Wicker Park, but we won’t tell), attracts a crowd on the weekends and is the go-to date spot if you want to capture the moment in an old-school photo booth.

Entertainment and recreational activities

The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art is a fun way to spend an afternoon and will make you rethink what art can be. They regularly host exhibitions and events, showcasing everything from avant-garde installations to thought-provoking photography. One day you might find yourself immersed in a multimedia exploration of Ukrainian identity, and the next, you're pondering an abstract sculpture that looks suspiciously like your neighbor's attempt at assembling IKEA furniture. The institute also runs workshops and lectures, so you can impress your friends with your newfound art knowledge at your next dinner party.

If you're into twisting yourself into a pretzel (in a good way), Create Your Space Studio is where yogis gather for some intense deep breathing and bending. Or if muscle building is more your style, Division St. Crossfit and Elite Integrated Pilates will happily help you get into better shape while you sweat through the pain.

The real highlight of the neighborhood is the Ukrainian Village Fest in September. The streets are transformed into a mini-Kyiv, with the smell of sizzling kielbasa filling the air, folk dancers twirling in colorful costumes, and enough vodka to make you think you can join in (spoiler: you can't, but it's fun to try).

Parks in Ukrainian Village

Okay, so Central Park we aren’t. But what Ukrainian Village lacks in quantity, it makes up for in quality:

• Commercial Club Playground: This little spot on Chicago Avenue is where local kids burn off energy and adults pretend they're not winded after one round of HORSE on the basketball court.
• Smith Park: Perched on the neighborhood's western frontier, this park is the Swiss Army knife of green spaces. Swimming pool for scorching summer days? Check. Baseball fields for your beer league team? You bet. Tennis courts for channeling your inner Serena? Game, set, match.

Museums in Ukrainian Village

For a neighborhood that could fit in the pocket of some Chicago 'hoods, Ukrainian Village punches way above its weight in the museum department:

• Ukrainian National Museum: Step through these doors on Superior Street and you're basically teleporting to Ukraine. It's a time-traveling, continent-hopping experience that'll leave you saying "fascinating" more times than you can count. •
• Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art: Don't let the name fool you, this isn't just for Ukrainian art buffs. This Chicago Avenue building showcases innovative works that'll challenge your perception and maybe inspire you to pick up a paintbrush yourself. (Results may vary.)

Local Events in Ukrainian Village

Ukrainian Village Fest is the neighborhood's yearly blockbuster. For one glorious September weekend, Chicago and Kyiv have a love child right on the streets. You'll find yourself doing the polka with a stranger in one hand and a potato pancake in the other. Don't worry if you can't tell your holubtsi from your varenyky, by the end of the fest, you'll be an honorary Ukrainian.

The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art hosts many events throughout the year, from benefit galas and talent shows to art receptions, artists talks, and free workshops. 

The Empty Bottle, Ukrainian Village's beating heart of indie tunes, hosts free concerts every Monday. It's perfect for discovering your new favorite band or just pretending you're cooler than you actually are.

Then there’s the Division Street Farmers Market. It's less an event and more a weekly ritual where you can pretend those organic veggies will cancel out last night's pierogi binge. Go early for the best selection, or late for the best people-watching.

Whether you're into stuffing your face with Eastern European delicacies, bobbing your head to underground music, or just soaking in the local flavor, Ukrainian Village's event scene should keep you occupied throughout the year. Just remember to pace yourself! With this much fun right outside your door, you'll need to save some energy for your day job.

Access to highways

While Ukrainian Village isn't directly on any major highways, it has easy access to the big ones. The Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94) is just a quick jaunt east, perfect for those times when you need to make a speedy getaway to O'Hare or pretend you're in "The Blues Brothers." And if you're heading north or south, Western Avenue, which forms the western border of the neighborhood, is basically a highway in street clothing.

CTA Bus Routes in Ukrainian Village

CTA buses in Ukrainian Village are like the neighborhood's unofficial tour guides. The #66 Chicago bus is your east-west lifeline, perfect for when you've had one too many at the Inner Town Pub and can't face the walk home. Going north-south? The #49 Western and #50 Damen buses are ready to pick you up. There’s also the #70 Division, which is great for those "I can't believe I'm up this early on a Saturday" farmers market trips.

Metra Train Stops in Ukrainian Village

Ukrainian Village doesn't have its own Metra stop, but don't let that burst your bubble! The Clybourn Metra station on the Union Pacific North line is just a short bus ride away. It's close enough that you can still claim "easy access to Metra" on your dating profile without feeling like a complete fraud.

Distance to downtown and other notable locations

Ukrainian Village is centrally located and ready to go. Downtown (The Loop) is about 4 miles east, or a 20-minute drive if the traffic gods are smiling upon you. Wicker Park, aka "that neighborhood your cool cousin won't shut up about," is right next door. And if you're craving some beach time, Lake Michigan is about 3 miles east.

Parking options and availability

Let's talk parking, or as it's known in Ukrainian Village, "The Great Car Tetris Challenge." Street parking is generally free, but it comes with more rules than a board game night with your Type A friend. Watch out for street cleaning days, snow routes, and those sneaky permit-only zones.

Many apartments come with dedicated spots, which in Chicago real estate terms is like striking gold. If you're not so lucky, there are some paid lots scattered around, particularly near commercial areas.

Public, private, and charter school options

Ukrainian Village has a handful of great schooling options to send your little ones to:

• Columbus Elementary School: This Chicago Public School is where kids learn reading, writing, and how to say "hello" in at least five languages before they hit middle school.
• St. Nicholas Cathedral School: If you're looking for a slice of Ukrainian heritage with your education, this is it. They've been dishing out knowledge (and probably some amazing borscht) since 1936.
• LaSalle II Magnet School: Just a hop and a skip away in Wicker Park, this school is for the kiddos who are already planning their future TED talks. With a focus on world languages and cultures, it's basically a passport disguised as a school.
• Chopin Elementary School: Named after the famous composer, this school hits all the right notes when it comes to education. Who knows, your little one might be the next piano prodigy! 

University, college, and others higher learning institution options

Ukrainian Village isn't exactly a college town, for all the perks and minuses that brings with it. You won't find frat houses or all-night libraries here, but higher education is just a short commute away:

• DePaul University: Just a quick Blue Line ride to Lincoln Park or the Loop, DePaul is close enough that you can hit the books and still make it back for last call at your favorite Ukrainian Village dive.
• University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC): A bit further south, UIC is still easily accessible. It's perfect for those who want a big university experience but still want to come home to a neighborhood where everybody knows your name (or at least pretends to).
• City Colleges of Chicago: With several campuses spread throughout the city, including nearby Malcolm X College, you're never far from an opportunity to expand your mind or pick up a new skill.

Overview of the real estate market

This Chicago neighborhood, sandwiched between Wicker Park and Humboldt Park, combines the charm of old-school architecture with the perks of modern life. The housing stock primarily consists of vintage walk-ups, classic Chicago two-flats, and single-family homes, many of which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

In recent years, there's been an influx of new construction, adding contemporary condos and apartments to the mix. Despite growing popularity, the neighborhood still offers more affordable options compared to some of Chicago's trendier areas. This combination of character and value makes Ukrainian Village an attractive choice for young professionals and families looking to rent in Chicago.

If you're still unsure about the renting process in the city, check out our “Moving to Chicago” guide. It's full of useful information to help you navigate the rental market confidently. With this knowledge, you'll be well-prepared to act quickly when you find an apartment that fits your needs. In Ukrainian Village's competitive market, being ready to move fast can make all the difference in securing your ideal pad.

Rental rates and popular housing styles

When it comes to renting in Ukrainian Village, you've got options that'll make your inner HGTV fan squeal with delight. Let's break it down:

1. Vintage Walk-ups: These are the bread and butter of Ukrainian Village rentals. With exposed brick, hardwood floors, and enough character to write a novel about, they are super charming. One-bedroom apartments in these buildings typically range from $1,500 to $2,400 per month.
2. Two and Three-Flats: The classic Chicago two-flat is alive and well in Ukrainian Village. These offer a bit more space and often come with outdoor areas. Expect to shell out between $1,900 and $3,100 for a two-bedroom in one of these beauties.
3. Single-Family Homes: For those who need more space (or just like to pretend they're on "House Hunters"), Ukrainian Village has a selection of single-family homes for rent. A three-bedroom can range from $2,800 to $4,000 or more, depending on size and updates.
4. New Construction: If you're all about that modern life, newer apartment buildings in the area offer amenities like in-unit laundry and rooftop decks. These tend to be pricier, with one-bedrooms starting around $1,800 and going up from there.
5. Converted Lofts: While not as common, you can find some cool converted loft spaces, especially on the edges of the neighborhood. These unique rentals can range from $1,800 to $2,500 for a one-bedroom.

Keep in mind, these are average rates and can fluctuate based on factors like location within the neighborhood, building amenities, and how recently the unit has been updated. Before you start fantasizing about that exposed brick loft with a rooftop view, do yourself a favor and check out Domu’s Rent Calculator. It will help keep your budget in check and save you the time (and pain) of being ‘home poor’.

Also, don't forget to factor in potential additional costs like parking (if you're brave enough to have a car in Chicago) and utilities. Our article on expected costs to rent an apartment in Chicago will help dial in the expenses that go beyond monthly rent.

Future Development in Ukrainian Village

Ukrainian Village is seeing steady, thoughtful development that aims to preserve its unique character while meeting the needs of a growing population. Several projects are in the pipeline:

• Mixed-use developments: A few low-rise mixed-use buildings are planned along Chicago Avenue, aiming to add both residential units and retail spaces. These projects promise to enhance the neighborhood's walkability and commercial offerings.
• Adaptive reuse: Some older industrial buildings on the neighborhood's edges are slated for conversion into loft-style apartments, maintaining the area's architectural heritage while providing modern living spaces.
• Infill construction: Vacant lots are being eyed for new construction, primarily three-to-four-story residential buildings that will blend with the existing streetscape.
• Infrastructure improvements: The city has plans to upgrade several streets and sidewalks, enhancing pedestrian safety and overall aesthetic appeal.
• Green initiatives: There's a push for more green spaces, with proposals for pocket parks and community gardens in underutilized areas.
• While these developments signal growth, they're being approached with sensitivity to Ukrainian Village's historic fabric and community character.

Conclusion

So, you've made it through our Ukrainian Village crash course. Congratulations, you now know more about this neighborhood than most Chicagoans who've lived here for years!

For those considering a move here, Ukrainian Village offers a rare combination: character, convenience, and (relative) affordability. You'll find everything from vintage walk-ups to new constructions with all the modern amenities you never knew you needed. And yes, some of them even come with parking, a luxury in Chicago that ranks somewhere between winning the lottery and finding a unicorn.

The food scene here is diverse enough to satisfy both your cravings for authentic Eastern European cuisine and your desire to Instagram something that looks like it was created by a chef with a degree in molecular gastronomy. The nightlife ranges from dive bars where your favorite drink is remembered to music venues where you can pretend you were the one who discovered the next big thing.

But perhaps the most compelling reason to consider Ukrainian Village is this: it's a real neighborhood. Not a tourist trap, not a playground for the ultra-wealthy, but a place where people actually live, work, and occasionally argue about parking with their neighbors.

If this sounds like your kind of place, it's time to take action. Head over to Domu and start your apartment search today. Our listings are updated more frequently than Chicago weather changes, which, if you're new here, is saying something.

Remember, in the competitive Chicago rental market, hesitation is the enemy of securing a great apartment. So why not start your search now? After all, those pierogies aren't going to eat themselves.

Ukrainian Village's story is a testament to Chicago's reputation as a city of immigrants, each wave leaving its mark on the urban landscape. This pocket of the West Side wasn't always the hip enclave we know today and its journey is as colorful as the Easter eggs you'll find in local bakeries come springtime.

Back in the 1880s, while Chicago was experiencing a growth spurt, the Ukrainian Village was just starting to take shape. The area was initially settled by German and Scandinavian immigrants, drawn by the promise of jobs in the nearby factories and lumber yards. However, it was the arrival of Ukrainian immigrants in the early 1900s that would give the neighborhood its lasting identity.

These newcomers, fleeing political upheaval and economic hardship in their homeland, brought with them a fierce determination to preserve their culture. They built churches that could have been plucked straight from Kyiv, established cultural institutions, and opened businesses that catered to their community's needs. The air was soon filled with the sounds of Ukrainian being spoken on street corners and the smell of freshly baked babka wafting from bakery windows.

The neighborhood's character was further shaped by the arrival of Puerto Rican immigrants in the 1950s and 1960s, adding another layer to its cultural tapestry. This diversity helped Ukrainian Village weather the urban decline that affected many Chicago neighborhoods in the mid-20th century.

As the 1990s rolled around, Ukrainian Village began to attract a new type of resident: young professionals and artists drawn by the affordable rents and unique character. They set up studios in old storefronts, opened trendy cafes, and breathed new life into the area. But unlike some other gentrifying neighborhoods, Ukrainian Village managed to hold onto its roots.

Today, you can still see the imprints of each era of the neighborhood's history. The onion domes of the Ukrainian Orthodox and Catholic churches still dominate the skyline. Long-standing delis and restaurants continue to serve up traditional Eastern European fare. And newer businesses pay homage to the area's heritage even as they cater to changing tastes.

What's remarkable about Ukrainian Village is how it's embraced change without losing its soul. The old and new coexist in a way that feels organic rather than forced. You might see a third-generation Ukrainian family chatting with their hipster neighbors at the local farmers market or find a craft cocktail bar that incorporates traditional Ukrainian spirits into their drinks.

This ability to evolve while honoring its past is what makes Ukrainian Village a place where you can literally walk through time, from century-old churches to cutting-edge art galleries, all within a few blocks. And that's a history lesson worth experiencing firsthand.

View more History in Ukrainian Village