Where to Live in Chicago Based on Your Top Interests

Do you love sports? Fashion? Art? Luxury Living Chicago Realty can help you find the best place to live based on your interests.

We’ll walk through popular interests and neighborhoods that align so that you have better insight into where to live in Chicago.

Where to Live in Chicago…

If You Like Sports

The Windy City is a phenomenal place to call home if you’re a sports fan. Downtown Chicago houses all of the major sporting arenas and stadiums.

Cubs fans can live in the heart of baseball haven by living near Wrigleyville, which is part of the Lakeview neighborhood and also where Wrigley Field is located. Imagine watching a game from your rooftop! Plus, nothing beats walking down Clark Street and feeling the indescribable energy on game day. This area boasts a handful of popular sports bars where people can also watch all types of sporting events.

South Loop is a great place to live if you’re a fan of football. The urban neighborhood places residents within walking distance of the infamous Soldier Field. This massive stadium not only hosts Bears games, but it’s also the place for soccer games, concerts, and other events that take place throughout the year.

If hockey or basketball is your sport of choice, consider looking into West Loop. This hot neighborhood is close to the United Center, where the Bulls and Blackhawks’ games happen. West Loop is also known for its happening sports bars and fantastic patios.

For Boutique Shopping

Those who prefer to prioritize retail therapy may have a different top pick in Chicago neighborhoods.

While neighborhoods like River North give residents access to some of the most renowned shops and high-end brands along the Mag mile, Chicago offers other communities that specialize specifically in boutique shopping.

The Charming Lincoln Park area is a fantastic spot to live if you’re all about the adorable boutiques. Stroll along Armitage and Halsted Street to explore some of the area’s favorite local stores boasting local vendors and unique finds.

Lakeview is another neighborhood known for its boutiques. The three trendy shopping areas throughout the area include the Southport Corridor, the Lincoln Hub, and the Paulina Station District. 

If you’re looking for a hip neighborhood with equally hip shops, consider Wicker Park. There are plenty of unique boutiques along and near the bustling Milwaukee Avenue.

If You Love Art

Throughout its history, Chicago has attracted plenty of artists. Today, multiple neighborhoods still maintain a reputation for their incredible art galleries.

River North may be one of the most infamous spots for these sorts of art shops. In fact, the River North Gallery District boasts the largest concentration of art galleries in the United States after Manhattan. The district is centered around Franklin and Superior Streets and bounded by Wells, Chicago, Orleans, and Huron Streets. Around these streets, you can find plenty of unique and imaginative galleries.

Nearby, the West Loop neighborhood offers its fair share of art galleries as well. Over the past few years as West Loop rose in popularity, some of the River North galleries migrated to this area.

For Live Music

If you’d prefer to reside nearby live performances and concerts, Chicago also has plenty of options for you.

Living in the Loop puts you in the heart of downtown, and it provides easy access to some of the city’s most iconic music venues. The Chicago Theatre, Civic Opera House, and outdoor Petrillo Music Shell all put on incredible musical performances for residents and guests alike.

The vibrant River North neighborhood also has plenty to offer its residents, including music venues. There are plenty of bars, lounges and upscale venues that provide live music throughout the week.

Logan Square may be more of your scene if you prefer underground venues or more low-key performances. This hipster neighborhood offers a handful of distinctive joints to enjoy live music, from Logan Auditorium to Rosa’s Lounge.

If You’re a Foodie

While you can find fantastic food anywhere in Chicago, some neighborhoods are known for their dining options.

River North is one of those spots that offers a high concentration of top-notch restaurants. You can find any cuisine imaginable on every corner of this neighborhood, but the area is most notable for its sleek steakhouse options.

West Loop has also become a haven for foodies. This former meatpacking industrial district is now home to some of the city’s must-try eateries, including multiple Michelin restaurants. You can find the hottest dining spots right along Randolph Street, also known as ‘Restaurant Row.’ 

Logan Square has recently welcomed some incredible restaurants that fit well in this hipster neighborhood. Many of these dining spots offer unique and creative fair, along with eccentric vibes and unique spaces.

To Be Close to the Nightlife

If your ideal neighborhood involves an exciting nightlife, rest assured there is a spot for you in Chicago.

River North appeals to many interests, especially nightlife. Hubbard Street, in particular, is the place to be on a weekend evening. Here you can find some of the best bars and clubs that stay open late into the night.

If you live in Lakeview, specifically in the Wriglleyville area, you’re in luck when it comes to nightlife as well. Clark Street, from Belmont to Grace Street, may be the longest cluster of bars in the Windy City. You can find every type of drinking joint imaginable around here, from country bars with live music to sports bars with batting cages and dueling pianos. 

Wicker Park’s North Milwaukee Avenue is another excellent stretch where you can an eclectic mix of bars, clubs and pubs that ensure an exciting evening out. It’s the perfect spot to bar hop, especially if you’re looking for live music and a diverse crowd.

Those who gravitate toward neighborhood bars may also like what Lincoln Park, Old Town, and Logan Square offer. While these communities aren’t known for their wild club scene, they do make fantastic spots to wind down on any night of the week. You can  find great patios and outdoor seating in these neighborhoods.

Regardless of what your interests may be, there is bound to be the perfect neighborhood for you. Let one of our experienced team members help you decide where to live in Chicago!