South Commons, a 24-story condominium tower completed in 1969, stands as a prominent fixture in Chicago's South Commons neighborhood. With 600 units, this high-rise offers residents a blend of urban living and community atmosphere just three miles south of the city center. The building's simple, functional design features a grid of balconies on its facade, providing residents with outdoor spaces to enjoy the surrounding views. South Commons was part of an innovative 20-acre development plan aimed at integrating people of various income levels and races, reflecting the area's commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
Versatile layouts with stunning city and lake views
South Commons offers a range of floor plans to suit various lifestyles, from cozy studios to spacious two-bedroom units. Studios, spanning 250 to 700 square feet, are priced from $104,500 to $110,000, providing an affordable entry point for first-time buyers or those seeking a pied-à-terre. These efficient spaces often feature floor-to-ceiling windows, flooding the units with natural light and offering panoramic views of the city or Lake Michigan.
One-bedroom units, ranging from 580 to 990 square feet, are available from $116,000 to $149,000. These homes typically include open-concept living areas, updated kitchens with stainless steel appliances, and private balconies perfect for enjoying morning coffee or evening relaxation.
For those requiring more space, two-bedroom units measure 800 to 1,500 square feet and are priced between $124,000 and $188,000. These larger apartments often boast split floor plans, providing privacy and comfort for families or those working from home. Many units feature hardwood floors, granite countertops, and custom California closets, adding a touch of luxury to daily living.
Regardless of size, all units in South Commons benefit from the building's thoughtful design, with many offering unobstructed views of Lake Michigan to the east and the iconic Chicago skyline to the north. Recent renovations in many units have introduced modern finishes such as luxury vinyl flooring, updated bathrooms with designer tiles, and kitchens with quartz countertops and extended cabinetry.
Monthly HOA fees range from $300 to $800, covering essential services such as heat, water, gas, insurance, security, pool maintenance, exterior upkeep, lawn care, scavenger services, and snow removal. This comprehensive fee structure allows residents to enjoy a worry-free lifestyle in this well-maintained high-rise community.
Year-round recreation and essential services
South Commons provides an array of amenities designed to enhance residents' quality of life. The building's standout feature is its two outdoor swimming pools, offering a refreshing escape during Chicago's warm summers. These pools are complemented by sun decks, perfect for lounging and socializing with neighbors.
For indoor gatherings, a party room is available, ideal for hosting events or celebrations without the constraints of individual unit sizes. The building also features a courtyard, providing a tranquil outdoor space for relaxation or casual meet-ups with fellow residents.
Practical amenities include on-site laundry facilities, ensuring convenience for daily tasks. Each resident is assigned additional storage space, helping to maximize living areas within the units. The building is equipped with elevators, facilitating easy access to all floors.
Security is a priority at South Commons, with 24-hour security personnel on duty to ensure residents' safety and peace of mind. The building is professionally managed with on-site staff, including maintenance personnel and engineers, ensuring prompt attention to any issues that may arise.
For those with vehicles, both garage and outdoor parking options are available for lease, providing secure and convenient parking solutions. The building is also pet-friendly, welcoming furry companions and making it an ideal home for animal lovers.
These thoughtfully curated amenities and services create a comfortable and convenient living environment, catering to the diverse needs of South Commons' residents.
A vibrant community with urban conveniences and lakefront charm
South Commons is situated in a dynamic neighborhood that offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The area's crown jewel is Dunbar Park, located directly across the street from the building. This expansive green space features tennis courts, baseball fields, a running track, and playgrounds, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure.
For those who enjoy waterfront activities, Margaret T. Burroughs Beach is just a mile east. This sandy strip along Lake Michigan offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline and is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking during the warmer months.
The neighborhood boasts excellent shopping options. Lake Meadows Shopping Center is within walking distance, offering a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and services. For grocery needs, residents can choose between Jewel-Osco and Mariano's, both a short drive away. These supermarkets provide a wide range of products to cater to diverse culinary preferences.
Dining options in the area are diverse and satisfying. Yassa African Restaurant offers authentic African cuisine, while Moody Tongue on Wabash Avenue provides a fine dining experience with its Michelin-starred kitchen. For quick bites, local favorites like White Castle and Culver's are nearby.
Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Guaranteed Rate Field, home of the Chicago White Sox, where residents can enjoy Major League Baseball games throughout the season. The area is also rich in cultural attractions, with the renowned Field Museum just three miles away, offering world-class exhibits on natural history.
Educational institutions abound in the vicinity. The Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) campus is nearby, bringing a vibrant academic atmosphere to the area. For families with children, Drake Elementary School and Phillips Academy High School serve the local community, offering educational options from pre-kindergarten through high school.
The neighborhood's location provides easy access to downtown Chicago, allowing residents to enjoy the best of both worlds – a quieter, more residential feel with the excitement of the city just minutes away. This unique blend of urban convenience and community charm makes South Commons an attractive destination for a diverse range of residents.
Well-connected with multiple transit options
South Commons benefits from excellent transportation links, making it easy for residents to navigate the city and beyond. The area is well-served by public transit, with several bus stops within walking distance of the building. The 3000 S Michigan bus stop is less than a minute's walk away, offering access to the Bronzeville/Union Station and Cottage Grove lines. Just a five-minute walk from the building, residents can catch additional bus routes at the Michigan & 31st Street stop, including the 31st Street and Cottage Grove Express lines.
For those preferring rail transit, the 35th-Bronzeville-IIT station on the Green Line is about a 15-minute walk from South Commons. This station provides quick access to downtown Chicago and other parts of the city. The Sox/35th Street station on the Red Line is also within reach, offering another rapid transit option for residents.
Commuters who use Metra will find the 27th Street Station on the Metra Electric Line conveniently located about a 15-minute walk or 5-minute drive from the building. This line provides service to downtown Chicago and south suburban areas.
For those traveling further afield, South Commons is well-positioned for access to major highways. Interstate 90/94 (Dan Ryan Expressway) and Lake Shore Drive are both easily accessible, facilitating quick connections to other parts of the city and beyond. This proximity to major thoroughfares is particularly beneficial for residents who commute by car or frequently travel to other areas of Chicago.
Cyclists will appreciate the neighborhood's bike-friendly infrastructure, with numerous bike lanes and paths in the vicinity. The nearby Lakefront Trail offers an scenic route for both recreational rides and commutes to downtown.
For air travel, residents have convenient access to both of Chicago's major airports. Chicago Midway International Airport is about a 15-minute drive away, while O'Hare International Airport can be reached in approximately 35 minutes by car.
The variety of transportation options available near South Commons ensures that residents can easily navigate the city, whether for work, leisure, or exploration of all that Chicago has to offer.
Was this overview helpful?
Building Details
Recreation
In Ground Pool
Community Pool
Park
Trails
Bike Trail
Outdoor Features
Common Area
Amenities
Party Room
Coin Laundry
Bike Room
Community Storage Space
Resident Manager or Management On Site
Gated Community
Parking
1 Open Parking Space Per Unit
1 Garage Space Per Unit
50 Car Detached Garage
1 Open Parking Space
On-Site Parking
Off-Street Parking
Assigned Parking
Pet Policy
Pets up to 20 lbs
Dogs and Cats Allowed
Condo Association
$524 Monthly HOA Fees
Monthly HOA Fees Range from $325 - $800
Association fees include heat, water, gas, insurance, security, pool, exterior maintenance, lawn care, scavenger, snow removal
Collateral AnalyticsCollateral Analytics
Collateral Analytics AVMs (Automated Valuation Model) employ a number of statistical approaches combined with neighborhood-specific comparable selection guarantees the most up-to-date and precise valuations.
Black Knight®Black Knight
Black Knight’s AVM (Automated Valuation Model) is a state-of-the-art online residential property valuation tool that provides a quick and accurate estimate of the value of almost any home in the U.S.
First AmericanFirst American
First American Data & Analytics’ next-generation AVM combines unrivaled data assets with a blended ensemble of valuation models to produce highly accurate, reliable valuations you can trust.
Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Moderate Crime
Crime Score®
5/ 10
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
81/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
60/ 100
Excellent Transit
Transit Score®
73/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Paul Laurence Dunbar Park
4 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Football
Ed Glancy Baseball Field
6 min walk
Williams Park
9 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Football
Soccer
Lake Meadows Park
13 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Football
Park No. 540
2 min drive
Baseball/Softball
Football
Playground
Armour (Philip) Square Park
3 min drive
Baseball/Softball
Picnic Area
Pool
Margaret T. Burroughs Beach and Park
3 min drive
Trails
Beach
Ocean
31st Street Beach
3 min drive
Sun Yat-Sen Park
3 min drive
Playground
Multi-Purpose Field
Schools
Source:
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Disclaimer: Please note that this building may not be in these schools' attendance zones.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.
