Chicago

Discover Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods, rich architecture, and luxury real estate market. Explore what makes the Windy City one of the best places to live, buy, and invest.
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Living in Chicago

Chicago is a city that feels alive in every season. From summer walks along Lake Michigan to cozy winter nights with skyline views, the rhythm of the city draws people in. Every neighborhood has its own character, from the creative energy of Wicker Park to the calm lakeside feel of Streeterville and the timeless beauty of Lincoln Park. It is a place where history and innovation meet, where you can live in a modern glass tower one block from a century old greystone.

Chicago offers something for everyone. The energy of downtown, the warmth of local neighborhoods, and the unmatched sense of pride that comes with calling this city home make it one of the most unique places in the world.

The Heart of the Midwest

Chicago’s story is one of resilience. After the Great Fire of 1871, the city rebuilt itself stronger than ever, becoming a global center for architecture, business, and culture. Today it stands as the third largest city in the United States, known for its diversity, innovation, and welcoming community.

People come to Chicago for opportunity, but they stay for the quality of life. Each neighborhood feels like its own small town within the larger city, with local shops, restaurants, and parks that bring people together.

Architecture and Design

Chicago is known around the world as the birthplace of the skyscraper. It is a city where architectural creativity thrives. Walk through downtown and you will see the legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, Mies van der Rohe, and Jeanne Gang. From classic brownstones to cutting edge new construction, every corner tells a story.

For homebuyers, this means choice. You can find an industrial style loft in the West Loop, a quiet single family home in Lakeview, or a luxury condo with stunning lake views in the Gold Coast.

Real Estate in Chicago

The real estate market in Chicago is both dynamic and accessible. The city offers a wide range of options that fit different lifestyles and price points. Compared to other major cities, Chicago provides more value without sacrificing quality or location.

Neighborhoods such as River North and the West Loop attract professionals who love the urban lifestyle, while Lincoln Park and Lakeview appeal to families who want tree lined streets and excellent schools. The Gold Coast, Streeterville, and South Loop offer sophisticated living close to shopping, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Whether you are buying your first property or selling a luxury residence, Chicago’s strong demand and diverse housing inventory make it a rewarding market to navigate.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Life in Chicago is about balance. The city’s 18 mile lakefront trail connects beaches, parks, and neighborhoods with breathtaking views of the skyline. The food scene is world class, from deep dish pizza to Michelin star dining. Sports fans cheer for the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Bears, and Blackhawks all year long. The arts, theater, and live music scenes are thriving, and local festivals bring every community to life.

Chicago offers everything you could want in a big city while maintaining the warmth of a close knit community.

Getting Around the City

Transportation in Chicago is convenient and reliable. The CTA trains and buses connect nearly every neighborhood to downtown, and both O’Hare and Midway airports make travel simple for professionals and families alike. The city’s grid layout makes it easy to explore and experience all that each area has to offer.

Investing in Chicago

Investors continue to see Chicago as a smart long term market. With steady appreciation, a growing population, and strong rental demand, opportunities are available in both established and emerging neighborhoods. Areas such as Fulton Market, West Town, and South Loop are attracting attention for new construction and redevelopment, offering excellent potential for growth.

Working with a Local Expert

Buying or selling in Chicago is about more than property. It is about understanding the personality of each neighborhood and matching it to your lifestyle and goals. That is where experience and local knowledge matter most.

As a full time Chicago realtor with eXp Realty, I help clients navigate this market with confidence. My focus is on clear communication, strong negotiation, and personalized service that makes every transaction smooth and successful. Whether you are relocating, upgrading, or investing, I make sure you have every advantage in today’s competitive market.

Why People Love Calling Chicago Home

  • Distinct neighborhoods with unique charm

  • Iconic skyline and world class architecture

  • A strong sense of community and pride

  • Access to parks, beaches, and the lakefront

  • Diverse culture, dining, and entertainment

  • Excellent schools and stable home values

Let’s Talk Chicago Real Estate

If you are thinking about moving to Chicago, upgrading your current home, or investing in real estate, I would love to guide you through the process. Every client deserves expert advice, open communication, and a strategy that delivers results.

Call or text 815 545 7476
Visit rileyhextell.com

Riley Hextell, Chicago Realtor

Overview for Chicago, IL

2,707,650 people live in Chicago, where the median age is 35.7 and the average individual income is $48,148. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

2,707,650

Total Population

35.7 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$48,148

Average individual Income

Around Chicago, IL

There's plenty to do around Chicago, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

61
Somewhat Walkable
Walking Score
63
Bikeable
Bike Score
64
Good Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Chicago Honey Co-op, Franklin Street Boxing Club, and Active Evolution, Inc..

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining · $$ 4.48 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 4.17 miles 15 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 4.81 miles 16 reviews 5/5 stars
Nightlife 2.95 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Beauty 3.66 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Beauty 3.6 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Chicago, IL

Chicago has 1,146,550 households, with an average household size of 2.32. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Chicago do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 2,707,650 people call Chicago home. The population density is 11,889.73 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

2,707,650

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

35.7

Median Age

48.54 / 51.46%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
1,146,550

Total Households

2.32

Average Household Size

$48,148

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Chicago, IL

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Chicago. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

Work With Riley

With my passion for real estate and commitment to serving my clients, I am the go-to agent for anyone looking for a knowledgeable, dependable, and trustworthy professional.

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