Chicago homes and real estate
Chi•ca•go
Pronunciation: (shi-`kä-go) — n. a city in NE Illinois on Lake Michigan, third-largest city in the United States, population 2,896,016.
General Info
The bustling city of Chicago is comprised of many sections, from the Gold Coast and Old Town to River North, the Magnificent Mile and Streeterville. The city’s multicultural heritage is reflected in its diverse neighborhoods, which attract thousands of visitors each year. Chicago is home to nearly 3 million people who represent nearly every nation of the world. Each group brings its own customs and traditions to the city, which is a hotbed of social, political and cultural activity.
Arts & Dining
River North has the largest concentration of art galleries outside Manhattan. The area also boasts unique shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, and it’s just a short walk to Navy Pier, the Loop and Michigan Avenue. A former warehouse district, River North is now home to several businesses, including Quaker Oats and the recently converted Merchandise Mart; 20 fast-food restaurants; and more than 40 upscale eateries, including Planet Hollywood, Spago, Michael Jordan’s and the Hard Rock Cafe.
Recreation
Chicago’s park system offers programs in five distinct areas: cultural enrichment, health and physical activities, social enhancement, personal development and life skills, and outdoor and environmental education. These programs serve a variety of groups, from toddlers to seniors. No matter what your age or interests, you’ll find something to keep you busy!
Education
There are more than 650 schools in the Chicago Public School District. Private and parochial schools include the Montessori School Near-North, Quigley Seminary North, the Latin School of Chicago, Francis Parker School and St. Ignatius College Prep. Colleges and universities in the Near-North side include Rush University, the University of Illinois at Chicago and DePaul University.
Shopping
Chicago offers some of the best shopping in the nation. The Marriott, located in the heart of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, is a shopper’s paradise with four shopping centers, world-renowned boutiques and locally acclaimed designers. And Water Tower Place offers a shopping mall anchored by Marshall Field and Lord & Taylor; a Ritz-Carlton Hotel; and offices and condominiums.
Pricing
Housing prices range from $95,000 to more than $1 million, with an average home cost of $183,800.
Real estate
The city’s real estate market is as diverse as its residents. Studio condominiums start at $120,000. Full amenity high-rise properties with breathtaking views, spacious townhouses and popular urban lofts range from $150,000 to the millions.
Transportation
A complex system of expressways and public transportation ease traffic throughout Chicago. Taxis, buses, a subway and elevated trains serve the city and surrounding suburbs.