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( 13 Ratings )

Living in Near North Side, Chicago, IL

Near North Side Area Facts

  • Near North Side has a Livability Score of 73/100, which is considered excellent
  • Near North Side crime rates are 125% higher than the Chicago average
  • Cost of living in Near North Side is 20% higher than the Chicago average
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Near North Side Reviews

Write a review about Near North Side Tell people what you like or don't like about Near North Side…
North Side, Chicago User Rating 4 rating By Anonymous ( Jun 05, 2014) I was petrified when we got a transfer to Chicago. Coming from small town America, this was a big change. The Windy City is quite large. It is divided into many mature neighborhoods, one of which is considered the North Side. The Northern section of town is considered to be the a ...Read More rea that lies both north and east of the Chicago River. With 77 communities in all, Chicago can be difficult to navigate. Of all of Chicago, this area has the largest population, the most skyscrapers and the largest square footage of all the suburbs.

The North area has always been known for the section that the rich and affluent congregate. The home prices are elevated and posh and there are hardly any middle class sections. The Magnificent Mile is here, as well as the famous Navy Pier. Because of these attractions, it brings in both good and bad tourist. However, a day with nothing to do just doesn't seem to happen around here.

One of the neat parts of town is McCormickville. This area runs between Rush and Erie Street. Named after the McCormich Family, mansions were built for this family in this section in the 19th and 20th centuries. The Michigan Avenue Bridge also has a famous history. It was here that the permanent settlement known as "Eschecagou" was established. It was built by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable. Pioneer Court marks this area.

Chicago is well known for shopping, and this area of town is no different. However, the stores on this end of town do tend to be a bit pricier. One could obtain the same thing on the South end of town cheaper. There are some eclectic shops in the downtown section and neat gadgets a plenty. Food, well there is the most amazing eateries in the country here. Again, it's Chicago so expect bigger and better.

The people here are not warm and welcoming. In fact, I found them to be a bit reserved. They are not rude, but don't expect to make friends right away. There are hospitals and medical centers on every corner, and there is always something to do. Night life is exceptional and the close proximity to the downtown area just makes it all even better. Now that we have been here for more than 10 years, there's no place like home. Read Less
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      A+ Amenities

      Are there many local amenities in Near North Side? Yes, there are lots of amenities close to this location.

      Parks

      Connors Park
      Washington Square
      Chicago + State Park
      Mariano Park
      Jane M. Byrne Plaza
      Seneca Park
      Lake Shore Park
      Goudy Square Park

      Entertainment

      Loyola University Museum of Art
      Moody Bible Auditorium
      The Art of Dr.Seuss
      Richard H. Driehaus Museum
      Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place
      Carl Hammer Gallery
      The Escape Game Chicago
      Museum of Contemporary Art

      Food & Drink

      Bernard's Bar
      Subway
      McDonald's
      Pollo Campero
      Taco Bell
      Chick-fil-A
      Streeter's Tavern
      Pippin's Tavern

      A+ Commute

      Is public transit available in Near North Side? Of all people who commute, 25.3% take public transportation in Near North Side.
      Drive to Work
      27%

      47% lower than the US average

      Take Public Transit
      25%

      16% higher than the US average

      Walk to Work
      30%

      27% higher than the US average

      A+ Health & Safety

      Is Near North Side a healthy and safe place to live? Yes, there are many hospitals, police and fire stations.

      Hospitals

      Thorek Memorial Hospital
      La Rabida Children's Hospital
      Ascension Resurrection Medical Center
      Advocate Illinois Masonic Hospital
      Ascension Saint Mary Hospital
      Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital
      Thorek Memorial Hospital Andersonville (formerly Methodist Hospital of Chicago)
      Loretto Hospital

      Pharmacies

      CVS Pharmacy
      Walgreens
      Walgreens
      Walgreens
      Osco Drug
      Walgreens
      Walgreens
      Osco Drug

      Doctors

      AMITA Sage Medical Group
      Crystal Optical
      Athletico Physical Therapy
      Physicians Immediate Care
      Town & Country Pediatrics
      Dr. Kenneth Brocker
      Dr. Spencer & Dr. Blount-Odum
      Dr. Wanda Sygieda