Gold Coast

Explore Chicago’s Gold Coast, a neighborhood where historic elegance meets modern luxury. Discover its timeless architecture, scenic lakefront, and refined lifestyle.
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The Gold Coast is one of Chicago’s most elegant and historic neighborhoods. It offers a lifestyle of quiet luxury and timeless sophistication along Lake Michigan’s edge. Known for its grand architecture, tree lined streets, and proximity to the city’s best restaurants and boutiques, the Gold Coast is where Chicago’s rich history meets modern refinement.

Every street tells a story, from classic mansions on Astor Street to high rise condos with sweeping lake views. As someone who has helped multiple clients buy and sell properties here, I understand exactly what makes this neighborhood so desirable — and how to help my clients get the best results possible in this market.

History and Character

The Gold Coast rose to prominence in the late 1800s when Chicago’s elite began building magnificent estates after the Great Fire. Many of those homes still stand today, their charm and craftsmanship preserved through generations. The neighborhood has maintained its prestige while embracing modern luxury.

It is an area that values both heritage and innovation. Living in the Gold Coast means being surrounded by history while enjoying the best of what Chicago offers today.

The Real Estate Market

Gold Coast real estate represents the best of Chicago living. You will find everything from historic brownstones and classic co ops to luxurious new developments with every modern amenity. The market here is consistently strong thanks to limited inventory, high demand, and an unmatched location.

Having represented numerous clients in this area, I know what sells, what adds value, and how to position a property to stand out. For buyers, I know where to find hidden opportunities that combine quality, lifestyle, and long term value. For sellers, my customized marketing strategy ensures your property reaches the right audience — from local professionals to out of state luxury buyers looking to call Chicago home.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Living in the Gold Coast is about refinement, comfort, and access. The neighborhood sits steps from Oak Street Beach and Lake Shore Drive, with views that stretch endlessly across the water. Oak Street and Rush Street are lined with designer boutiques, fine dining, and rooftop lounges.

Yet, despite its central location, the Gold Coast maintains a residential calm that residents love. Morning walks by the lake, peaceful afternoons in Goudy Square Park, and dinner at a local favorite like Gibson’s or Maple and Ash are part of daily life here. It is a neighborhood that celebrates both elegance and authenticity.

Architecture and Design

Architecture is what defines the Gold Coast. You will find century old greystones, French inspired facades, and modern glass towers all within a few blocks of one another. The area is a living gallery of Chicago’s architectural history.

Many of my clients are drawn to the Gold Coast because of this unique blend of character and craftsmanship. Each home feels personal — from vintage condos with ornate detail to contemporary penthouses designed for modern luxury. I specialize in helping clients identify the properties that best fit their lifestyle while honoring the architectural story that makes this area one of a kind.

Community and Feel

The Gold Coast may be one of Chicago’s most prestigious neighborhoods, but it also has a strong sense of community. Residents know their neighbors, local shop owners greet regulars by name, and seasonal events like the Gold Coast Art Fair bring people together. It is clean, safe, and deeply connected, which makes it appealing to both families and professionals who want a balance between privacy and city living.

Having worked extensively in this area, I have come to know the rhythm of its market and the lifestyle its residents enjoy. That insight allows me to provide clients with unmatched guidance when buying or selling here.

Investing in the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast has long been one of the most secure real estate investments in Chicago. Its limited supply, strong rental demand, and continuous appeal keep property values high. Investors and homeowners alike see stability and appreciation here, making it one of the city’s most sought after markets.

Because I work closely with both local buyers and relocation clients, I bring firsthand experience with what drives this demand — from corporate relocations to international buyers looking for a foothold in Chicago’s luxury market.

Working with a Gold Coast Realtor Who Knows the Area

Navigating the Gold Coast market requires expertise, precision, and local insight. As a top producing Chicago realtor with eXp Realty, I specialize in helping clients succeed in this exact neighborhood. My hands on approach, marketing experience, and deep understanding of pricing trends have helped multiple clients buy and sell in the Gold Coast successfully.

Whether you are searching for a lakefront condo, selling your residence, or exploring investment opportunities, I know this market inside and out. My goal is not just to represent you — it is to deliver the best results possible through strategy, communication, and a proven record of success right here in the Gold Coast.

Why People Choose the Gold Coast

  • Historic charm with modern luxury living

  • Access to the lakefront, beaches, and downtown

  • Renowned restaurants, shopping, and nightlife

  • Consistent property values and strong demand

  • Distinct architecture and timeless design

  • Community feel with world class amenities

Work with the Top Gold Coast Realtor

If you are thinking about buying, selling, or investing in the Gold Coast, I would love to show you what makes this area so special — and how my experience can help you make the most of it. I have worked with numerous clients in the neighborhood and understand exactly what it takes to navigate this market successfully.

Call or text 815 545 7476
Visit rileyhextell.com

Riley Hextell, Chicago Realtor

Overview for Gold Coast, IL

13,925 people live in Gold Coast, where the median age is 53 and the average individual income is $148,031. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

13,925

Total Population

53 years

Median Age

High

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

$148,031

Average individual Income

Around Gold Coast, IL

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

97
Walker's Paradise
Walking Score
85
Very Bikeable
Bike Score
89
Excellent Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Chicago Honey Co-op, In Motion Physical Therapy, and SKo-Fit.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining · $$ 2.31 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.34 miles 29 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 0.47 miles 11 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.52 miles 15 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.79 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.73 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Gold Coast, IL

Gold Coast has 9,178 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Gold Coast do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 13,925 people call Gold Coast home. The population density is 82,993.206 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

13,925

Total Population

High

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

53

Median Age

46.69 / 53.31%

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
9,178

Total Households

2

Average Household Size

$148,031

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 Gold Coast, IL

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Gold Coast. 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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