Atlanta to Chicago (Lincoln: rent, neighborhoods, utilities)

[Jerseypeach]

Hi all,

My boyfriend and I are contemplating a move from Atlanta to Chicago and are a bit stuck on what neighborhood/area we would want to live in. I have heard good things about Bucktown and Lincoln Square, but am unsure beyond that.

Our two main priorities are safety and walkability. Beyond that, we would like someplace that has good outdoor space for a dog and lots of food and shopping options. Our rent max is $1300, $1400 if some utilities are included, and we would prefer a 2 bedroom, though we could make due with a large 1 bedroom.

any and all suggestions are appreciated!!

[Vlajos]

Both are very nice areas. Bucktown will be a bit younger, Lincoln Square is a bit more familish. Rents will be closer to your budget in Lincoln Square I believe.

[Jerseypeach]

Originally Posted by Vlajos

Both are very nice areas. Bucktown will be a bit younger, Lincoln Square is a bit more familish. Rents will be closer to your budget in Lincoln Square I believe.

Are there any other neighborhoods in that area you would recommend looking into?

[Vlajos]

Originally Posted by Jerseypeach

Are there any other neighborhoods in that area you would recommend looking into?

There are so many neighborhoods to choose from really. Other than safety and space for a dog is there anything else you are looking for?

[Jerseypeach]

Originally Posted by Vlajos

There are so many neighborhoods to choose from really. Other than safety and space for a dog is there anything else you are looking for?

I'm gluten intolerant so healthy eating options are a plus. easy access to grocery stores. Walkability is really important - we don't want to have to drive for groceries or restaurants. eclectic vibes are a plus. cool shopping. easy access to public transportation.

[marothisu]

Originally Posted by Vlajos

Both are very nice areas. Bucktown will be a bit younger, Lincoln Square is a bit more familish. Rents will be closer to your budget in Lincoln Square I believe.

Agreed here. $1300-$1400/month is a little low for Lincoln Square for a 2 bedroom. You might be able to find it though, but I'd say if you can go up to $1500/month, try that. Ravenswood which is next to Lincoln Square will be a better bet, or even some parts of North Center on the edge of Ravenswood and North Center. My girlfriend's old place was there and it was under $1300 total for a pretty spacious 2 bedroom place (No A/C outside of the kitchen though). You can definitely find $1300-$1400/month in Chicago in other places, but really depends where.

If you can raise your rent up to $1500/month, then it opens the door to areas like Lakeview, which is one of the most desirable places in Chicago. My girlfriend's 2 bedroom costs $1500/month in Lakeview East. A 3 minute walk out her door opens up hundreds of bars, shops, and restaurants.

[Vlajos]

Logan Square might work quite nicely. To add to marothisu's comment, it may make more sense to look for a larger 1BD.