Everything You Should Know About Living in Gold Coast Chicago

If you are looking for a thriving neighborhood that balances charming character with luxury living, then consider living in Gold Coast Chicago.

This historic neighborhood, nestled along Lake Michigan just north of downtown Chicago, is one of the city’s most affluent areas, rich in history and boasting some of the greatest dining, shopping, and living.

Before finding your dream home in this vibrant neighborhood, here is everything you need to know about living in Gold Coast Chicago.

The Best Gold Coast Shopping

The Gold Coast is by far one of the city’s best spot to ‘shop till you drop’. This neighborhood does not lack in designer stores and luxury boutiques.

Stroll along Oak Street to find some of the city’s most upscale shopping. Here you can stop by Hermes, Barney, Jimmy Choo, Tory Burch, and more.

Take part in the Oak Street Stroll, running from July through September. Every third Thursday of the month grab a friend and enjoy a glass of wine while browsing the season’s best finds. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Mark your calendars for a full afternoon of shopping at Restoration Hardware Showroom, located on Dearborn and Goethe Street. This early-20th-century landmark now boasts an elegant five-floor retail store, featuring the world’s leading luxury home furnishings. Even if you don’t leave the store with a purchase, you will be sure to leave with interior design inspiration for your dream home. In between exploring the multiple floors, stop by the gorgeous cafe for a bite to eat or catch a local artist in the showroom’s very own music venue.

Gold Coast also provides easy access to Michigan Avenue, one of the most famous shopping districts in the country. The Magnificent Mile is packed with more than 460 retailers, from luxury boutiques in Water Tower Place to some of the world’s most exclusive designers. You will also find the stunning Old Chicago Water Tower, the country’s second-oldest water tower.

What is the Gold Coast Historic District in Chicago?

The Gold Coast Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 in order to highlight and preserve the area’s history.

This historic district is located in the Near North Side of Chicago, roughly bounded by North Avenue, Lake Shore Drive, Oak Street, and Lake Street. The neighborhood boasts a deep history, dating back all the way to the early 1800s.

Gold Coast Historic District gained an early reputation of affluence and luxury. To this day it maintains this prestige, ranking as one of the most expensive areas of Chicago, as well as the 7th richest urban areas in America with a median household income of $153,358.

The neighborhood has a history of housing some of the city’s most influential and affluent people, including J.B. Pritzker, Vince Vaughn, and Lori Greiner.

Where to Find the Best Gold Coast Chicago Real Estate

Gold Coast Chicago is booming with premier real estate. Whether you are in the market for a historic property complete with incredible renovations or a luxury high rise boasting draw-dropping views and amenities, you can easily find your dream home in this vibrant neighborhood.

If you are looking for the top of the top, take a look at Sutton Place, the most expensive street in the city of Chicago. The average price of a home runs around 1.3 million dollars, and the most costly mansions may be priced close to 12 million dollars.

Also, consider living in a high rise right along Lake Shore Plaza, the third most expensive street in Chicago, where you can find unbeatable lake and city views, along with stunning architecture.

The Luxury Living map search makes it easy to find properties in your budget and in your ideal part of the neighborhood. An experienced broker can also streamline the search process for the best Gold Coast Chicago real estate.

All About the History of Gold Coast

Strolling through the streets of Gold Coast Chicago, the rich history is clearly present. From the historic walk-ups to notorious landmarks, including the original Playboy Mansion, this neighborhood provides residents with a connection to the past.

The neighborhood was originally known as the Astor Street District, after John Jacob Astor, and kept that name throughout the 1800s.

Interestingly enough, John Jacob Astor never actually resided in Chicago, but his achievement as one of the wealthiest men in the United States at the time earned him recognition and an entire neighborhood named after him. This name helped to attract other wealthy families and individuals to the area. Among these wealthy people was Potter Palmer, who also played an instrumental role in the development of the Gold Coast.

After the Chicago Fire in the late 1800s, Potter purchased a large amount of land and eventually converted the swampy land into a strip of desirable property along the Lake, now known as Lake Shore Drive.

Palmer also gained attention when he built and resided in “The Palmer Mansion”, the largest home in Chicago at the time. Other influential and wealthy people quickly began moving to the area, triggering a huge growth during the late 19th century. Ever since this neighborhood has remained a sought after spot to live in the city.

Try These Things to Do in Gold Coast 

Living in Gold Coast Chicago makes for an exciting weekday and weekend itinerary. This vibrant neighborhood truly has it all.

Head over to Rush Street, home to some of Chicago’s most famous bars and restaurants. This swanky spot is the happening place to be on a Friday evening. Just around the block on Oak Street you’ll also find the poshest shops around.

If you are looking for a leisurely weekend afternoon, consider visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art to admire some modern masterpieces. The exhibition center was established in 1967 and features popular work from local and international artists.

360° Chicago is the place to be if you want to experience some of the best views in the Windy City. Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center, this observatory features floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive city and lake views. Afterwards, head up one floor and enjoy a drink at the impressive Signature Room.

Living in the  Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago opens the door to unmatched luxury along with the historical past of this beautiful neighborhood. Make Gold Coast the move and find your perfect home today!