near north side Real Estate: Homes & Condos for Sale

Chicagos Near North Side neighborhood is one of four communities in the downtown area. Although its area is less than 3 square miles, its home to more than 66,000 residents. The area consists of 10 distinct communities with skyscrapers, opulent townhomes, condos and apartments. Among them are River North, the Magnificent Mile, the Gold Coast, Goose Island, Old Town and Streeterville. Residents enjoy having Lake Michigan to the east and the Chicago River to their south and west.

History

The area began to develop in 1885 when Potter Palmer purchased a mansion on Lake Shore Drive, a scenic commuter road that runs north and south along Lake Michigan. His purchase marked the beginning of the Gold Coast. The area soon reflected the addresses of wealthy families like the Wrigleys and the McCormicks. The neighborhood still emits an air of elegance and luxury.

Demographic

The median age of Near North Side men is 39.2 years. For women, its 37.7 years. The median household income in 2011 was $83,909. The neighborhood is a shoppers paradise, featuring Gold Coast shops with designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Kate Spade, Vera Wang and Lilly Pulitzer. Old Town has many of the citys buildings dating to the Victorian era. Its also home to The Second City improvisational comedy group. Northwestern Universitys law and medical schools are nearby. Residents enjoy exploring the area on foot or by traveling on Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses.

Popular Landmarks

The Near North Side hosts dozens of famous landmarks. Among them are the Navy Pier, Chicago Water Tower, Tribune Tower, Trump Tower and the John Hancock Center. Its home to half a dozen museums, including the Loyola University Museum of Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art. A stroll along North Michigan Avenue leads to one of Chicagos most impressive pieces of architecture, the Wrigley Building. The first signs of warmer weather each year mean its time for boat cruises on the Chicago River.

To learn more about this intriguing neighborhood, contact us today.