The Best Neighborhoods In Chicago For Families To Stay In 2024

Chicago often steals the spotlight as a haven for young professionals, with its endless buzz of entertainment, excellent educational institutions and thriving job market. However, beneath the city's energetic façade lie hidden gems–family-friendly neighborhoods that are culturally diverse and safe. So, which are the best neighborhoods in Chicago for families?

Chicago, the most populous city in Illinois, was incorporated in 1837. It is an international hub for finance, commerce, industry, education, telecommunication, technology and transportation. It's also a major tourist destination because of Lake Michigan beaches and its cultural institutions.

Safest neighborhoods in Chicago for families

This ranking of the best neighborhoods in Illinois for families is based solely on crime rate data sourced from Area Vibes and Niche. This list may not encompass all factors relevant to determining suitability for family living and should be used as a reference alongside other considerations. Here are the best neighborhoods in Chicago to raise a family.

1. Roscoe Village

Roscoe Village earned the nickname "Village Within the City" for its charm and small-town feel. It is located between Lincoln Park to the south, Northcenter to the north, and Lakeview to the east. Today, it is a melting pot of businesses and demographics.

Visitors, neighbors, and locals visit its streets every summer to enjoy community events and outdoor festivals. In addition to the neighborhood's natural beauty, it has vibrant shops, excellent public schools, lively arts, and top-rated eateries and nightlife.

Roscoe Village is among the nicest Chicago neighborhoods with a total annual crime of 601 (estimate) per 100,000 people.

2. North Centre

The North Centre neighborhood in the north side of Chicago, Illinois, is vibrant with an eclectic mix of restaurants, retailers, live theatre, live music and service-oriented businesses.

It's also home to some public schools in Chicago, including Coonley & Bell Elementary, North Park Elementary School and Lane Tech High School. In 2014, Chicago Magazine voted North Centre one of Chicago's best neighborhoods. The total annual crime rate in this neighborhood is 1,661 (estimate) per 100,000 residents.

3. Lincoln Square

Lincoln Square in north Chicago is one of the city's 77 community areas. Founded by German immigrants in the 1840s, it is defined by leafy streets and modest homes.

Western, Lincoln and Lawrence Avenue have German bars and restaurants that sell traditional beer and food. There are several Bavarian-style bakeries and shops here as well. The total annual crime rate at Lincoln Square is 1,871 (estimate) per 100,000 people.

4. Andersonville

Andersonville is a laid-back area within West Edgewater. It's famous for its 19th-century row houses, charming cafes, antique shops, and furniture stores along Clark Street, a well-known commercial strip.

Andersonville's Swedish heritage is evident in its quaint bakeries and restaurants. This neighborhood's total annual crime rate is estimated at 1,967 (per 100,000 people).

5. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is more than just a commercial corridor. It's a small, unique neighborhood that embraces and supports a rich blend of business activities, cultural attractions, dining, and shopping.

Overall, you'll love experiencing the neighborhood's storied history of individuality, warmth, and eclecticism. The total annual crime rate at Hyde Park is estimated at 2,591 (per 100,000 people).

6. Rogers Park

Rogers Park is a beautiful and diverse neighborhood on the far north side of Chicago. It is home to an eclectic and vibrant community with a rich history spanning over a century.

With its charming architecture, beautiful lakefront location, and diverse population, Roger Park is a wonderful place to call home. The total annual crime rate is 2,820 (estimate) per 100,000 people.

7. Streeterville

Streeterville is a neighborhood located north of the Chicago River. It has great restaurants, residentials, professional office centres, cultural venues, and medical facilities.

It underwent much development in the early 21st century, as numerous empty lots, especially in the southern part, were converted into residential and commercial properties.

The Streeterville neighborhood has several public schools. Its health facilities are based around Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. The total annual crime at Streeterville is 5,441 (estimate) per 100,000 people.

8. Greek Town

Greek Town is a small beautiful neighborhood jam-packed with fun places to visit with your family. It was once home to Chicago's Greek immigrant community. The Greek sense of decoration mixes old and new buildings with incredible urban architecture.

The original Greek Town, "Delta," was where the University of Chicago now lives. Today's Greek Town has moved a few blocks adjacent to Kennedy Expressway, Lake Street, Racine Avenue, and Congress Parkway. The total annual crime in this neighborhood is 5,681 (estimate) per 100,000 residents.

9. Old Town

Old Town is a neighborhood and historic district in Lincoln Park and Near North Side, Chicago, Illinois. It is home to many of Chicago's older Victorian-era buildings, including St. Michael's Church.

Its tree-lined Wells Street features old-school pubs, the revered Second City comedy club, artisanal coffee shops, charming eateries, and quirky boutiques. The total annual crime in Old Town is estimated at 5,914 (per 100,000 people).

10. West Loop

West Loop in Cook County is one of Chicago's best places to live. It offers residents a dense urban feel. Once an industrial zone, the hip West Loop neighborhood is a dining and nightlife hotspot.

The French Market food halls host local vendors, and the area is also home to upscale boutiques, music venues, bars, and pubs. Randolph Street Market sells vintage wares one weekend monthly. The total annual crime in West Loop is estimated at 13,591 (estimate) per 100,000 people.

Is Chicago a good place to raise a family?

Yes, Chicago is a safe place to live and raise your family. There are plenty of city neighborhoods and suburbs where you'll feel right at home.

Wrapping up

There are several best neighborhoods in Chicago for families, offering something for everyone. These neighborhoods have great schools, recreational facilities, vibrant hubs, and more. You'll indeed find the best place to raise your little ones.

Tuko.co.ke has shared an article about the safest neighborhoods in Queens, New York. Queens, one of the five boroughs of New York City, has a vibrant and diverse atmosphere with a mix of residential areas, commercial districts, and beautiful green spaces.

Safety is usually the top priority for people settling in a new place. So, which are the safest neighborhoods in Queens with great amenities and a community feel? Read this article for more.