Developed in the late 19th century by a handful of Chicago’s most elite families, the Gold Coast has certainly retained its grandeur over the decades. “It’s a fabulous location just north of the city, right along the lake,” says Cyd Archer, a 30-year resident and Broker with @properties, the city's number one brokerage. “You’ve got older buildings with beautiful views of the lake, historic townhomes and larger estates. You can walk everywhere. There are organic farmer’s markets and concerts; I mean, you don’t even have to leave the neighborhood if you don’t want to.” Adorned with greenery just blocks from Lincoln Park and Oak Street Beach, the Gold Coast is considerably one of Chicago’s elite communities.
Gold Coast is full of high-rise condos with waterfront views of Lake Michigan.
Lincoln Park Zoo has an expansive campus that Gold Coast residents love to explore.
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Historic rowhomes with conservatories for streets
Chicago’s Gold Coast offers a refined combination of ornate rowhomes and high-rise condominiums. Many single-family properties were constructed in the late 19th century, flaunting stone and brick façades in Richardsonian Romanesque and Queen Anne styles. Behind their wrought iron gates, lush and well-maintained gardens accompany shrubs and trees, turning residential streets into miniature conservatories. These rowhomes are typically priced between $1 million and $7 million, with higher-end builds exceeding 9,000 square feet. “A few of the blocks are landmark districts, meaning they can’t be altered, which is really nice,” Archer says. Meanwhile, the wide price range of condominiums is almost entirely dependent on square footage, proximity to Lake Michigan and additional amenities like balconies, rooftop patios and fireplaces. Homebuyers may find 2,000-square-foot options for $190,000, while those with 4,000 square feet and beyond can reach well above $1 million.
Gold Coast features many condo buildings that have amazing views of the lake.
There are many historic single family homes in the Gold Coast neighborhood.
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Skylight brunches and/or late-night cravings
La Colombe Coffee Roasters may be a local favorite, but the Gold Coast is also home to a handful of critically acclaimed brunch spots that visitors swear by. Blue Door Kitchen and Garden is a farm-to-table institution led by Art Smith—the former chef of Oprah Winfrey—whose vision is driven by fresh, seasonal produce. The posh ambiance of 3 Arts Club Café is situated inside of Restoration Hardware. Under the glow of a skylit garden, guests dine from a curated menu of artisanal American fare. Of course, Chicagoans can still enjoy the grittiness of a late-night craving at Dublin’s Bar & Grill, open 365 days a year until 4 a.m. The Oak Street District is well-known for its collection of luxury houses like Dolce & Gabbana and Chanel. Though the average errand run can be had along Division Street at Jewel-Osco or Target Grocery.
Butch McGuire's is one of the oldest bars in Gold Coast with a great atmosphere.
Three Arts Club is a great place to get lunch in Gold Coast.
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All the splendor of a festival in The Loop
The Porchlight Music Theater is an occasional hub for plays and off-Broadway shows. But residents of the Gold Coast are just 2 miles from the splendor of a festival in The Loop. Chicago’s Blues and Jazz Festivals, alongside Lollapalooza, attract hundreds of thousands of music fans to The Loop every year, while Taste of Chicago remains the city’s largest festival overall. The scent of hot chocolate and sweet roasted nuts envelops Daley Plaza during the holiday season as guests flock to the Christkindlemarket. Back home, “Aster Street has a block party every year open for residents,” Archer says. “Down on Division Street, they have summer markets with fruits, vegetables and flowers. The Old Town Art Festival has been going on for about 50 years, and in the winter, they light up the zoo for families.”
With three stages and over 250 artist, Blues Fest is one of Chicagos best summertime events.
Old Town Art Fair takes place on Wells Street and features a large number of artists.
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Public education with Chicago Public Schools
Families are zoned for the Chicago Public School District 299, beginning at Ogden International School. The East and Jenner campuses enroll kindergarten through eighth-grade students, altogether earning a grade of B-minus on Niche. Those graduating from Ogden’s Middle School are automatically eligible to attend the high school, also known as West Campus. With a B on Niche, this magnet school for the arts ranks ninth in the state among other public arts high schools. Students can also enroll at Lincoln Park High School, offering more than 60 clubs and organizations with an A on Niche.
Ogden International School of Chicago
Lincoln Park High School main grand four pillar entrance, Chicago, IL.
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Mere walking distance from Lake Michigan’s shoreline
Arguably, the biggest draw to the Gold Coast is its proximity to Lake Michigan, often appreciated on warm days at Oak Street Beach. There, the towering Chicago skyline contrasts expansive views of the water, where guests can enjoy the sandy dunes or walk a few blocks north to Concrete Beach for sturdier ground. The Lakefront Trail is a go-to for walkers and cyclists, extending 19 miles along the shore. “Where the Gold Coast ends, Lincoln Park begins—it’s one of the busiest parks in the United States,” Archer explains. “They have baseball diamonds and soccer fields, the zoo, lagoons, a history museum. There’s all kinds of stuff to do there.” The Lincoln Park Conservatory boasts a plethora of unique species of flora, while the zoo attracts millions of visitors each year.
Residents can head east from River North to The Lakefront Trail.
Oak St beach at the North end of Mag Mile is a great place to catch some sun in the summer.
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Ditching the car for CTA’s Red Line
Owning a personal vehicle is the opposite of convenient on the Gold Coast. “You really don’t need a car,” Archer says. You can walk everywhere. There are buses that’ll take you downtown, plus the elevated trains and the subway. There’s permitted parking on the street, but not nearly enough for everyone who lives here.” A Ventra Card secures easy access to the Red Line, where the closest L station is Clark/Division. CTA also provides 24-hour subway train service, while bus stops line Lake Shore Drive, Clark, Division and Rush Street. Many also opt for ridesharing or taxi service. Residents can expect a 45-minute to hour-long commute to both Chicago Midway International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Northwestern Memorial Hospital serves as the closest emergency room, just a mile south on Michigan Avenue.
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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Marla Schneider,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Lincoln Park Zoo
Connors Park
Concessions
Multi-Purpose Field
Lincoln Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Bike Trails
River Esplanade Park
Trails
River
Lake Shore Park
Tennis
Playground
Multi-Purpose Field
Goudy (William) Square Park
Playground
North Avenue Beach
Bike Trails
Lake
Beach
Seneca Park
Picnic Area
Playground
Multi-Purpose Field
Lakefront Park
Lake
Multi-Purpose Field
Transit
Airport
Chicago Midway International
21 min drive
Bus
Lake Shore & Cedar
Bus
State & Bellevue
Bus
State & Elm
Bus
Lake Shore & Division
Bus
Lake Shore & Schiller
Bus
Division & Dearborn
Bus
Lake Shore & Oak
Reviews
Niche Reviews
4.511 Reviews
4.0Niche User
1/11/2016Niche Review
Even at night it's generally pretty safe here with the exceptions being Division Street and the Viagra Triangle. However, cops and firefighters are very quick to respond in this neighborhood.
3.0Niche User
4/15/2016Niche Review
Crime will be a problem in any Chicago neighborhood. Being close to downtown does make crime a little higher. While this neighborhood is upper-class, it attracts a higher theft rate in comparison to street crime. I usually feel safe but you have to be careful in this show.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Gold Coast
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
2
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
2
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
2
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Gold Coast, Chicago sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Gold Coast, Chicago over the last 12 months is $744,892, up 13% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Enjoy the Panoramic views of Lake Shore Drive, Lake Michigan, Navy Pier and Oak street Beach. Floor to ceiling windows in Living and Dining room. East and West Views. Enjoy the night life of the Gold Coast. Located on the 28th Floor with ONLY 2 UNITS PER FLOOR. This inviting 2200 sq ft Floor plan has 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths with spacious room sizes. New window treatments in bedrooms. Master bedroom
Step into this updated Gold Coast condo and you're immediately drawn to the floor to ceiling windows with sweeping views of Lake Michigan, Lincoln Park and iconic brownstone mansions along tree-lined State Parkway in this preferred "A tier" home. Incredible natural light showcases the open concept home in this million-dollar Gold Coast location with inspiring sunrises. You can even enjoy sunsets
Pam Lynch@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Situated on a peaceful, tree-lined street in the vibrant Gold Coast, this condo offers one bedroom along with a den and two full bathrooms, which can be effortlessly transformed back into a two-bedroom, two-bathroom layout. Features include a gracious living and dining area with hardwood floors, a comfy den complete with built-in shelves. The primary suite includes a walk-in closet and an ensuite
Craig Sebert@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Welcome to THE Chicago's Gold Cost. Located on exciting North Dearborn, this 1 bed condo is in the heart of famous, prestigious restaurant district, with a vibrant nightlife along with walking distance to the Oak Street Beach. Building also features updated sundeck with amazing city and lake views and offers comfortable seating and grill area which is amazing for Chicago Summer day and night,
Discover the charm of this delightful 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom condominium, perfectly nestled in a wonderful neighborhood, the Gold Coast, yet just steps from Lincoln Park and Old Town. This is the trifecta of neighborhoods in Chicago. This corner unit is a true gem, featuring three exposures (north, east, and south) that fill the space with bright natural light and breathtaking treetop views of
Seeing is believing! This is a Golden opportunity for the next owner of this bright and lovely spacious 2 bed 2 bath home boasting 10ft ceilings, exceptional vintage charm and detail with stunning lake & park views. This condominium is located in the extraordinary and intimate Benjamin Marshall building neighboring the Archdiocese of Chicago Cardinals Mansion and Lincoln Park as your front yard!
100 YEARS IN THE MAKING A landmark location, and the place your history begins. Chicago’s coveted Astor Street District welcomes its newest residence, The Clark. An ode to refined elegance, this contemporary building boasts unparalleled character so that every moment at home is a monumental memory in the making. A piece of the Gold Coast, The Clark lives among luxury. The
Discover the charm of Gold Coast living in this spacious one-bedroom condo, nestled in a boutique building on a picturesque, tree-lined street. Designed for both relaxation and entertaining, the open floor plan accommodates multiple seating arrangements-unwind in the living area, enjoy meals at the dining table, or grab a quick bite at the breakfast bar. Warm hardwood flooring creates a welcoming
At The Deco, we offer luxury Gold Coast apartments designed to suit your lifestyle. Our Chicago apartments are beautifully renovated, within walking distance of the citys best attractions, and offer panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. This is the combination of old-world charm and new-world luxuries in a stunning Art Deco building built in 1927. Coming Soon! Overlook Chicagos Gold Coast
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Marla Schneider,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
16,230
Median Age
46
Population Density
93 ppl/acre
Population under 18
12.4%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
30.3%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$119,761
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$159,364
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
98.9%
College Graduates
84.9%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
43.6%
Significantly above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
64.5%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
34''
Average Winter Low Temperature
20°F
Average Summer High Temperature
84°F
Annual Snowfall
40''
Area Factors
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
84/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
94/ 100
Excellent Transit
Transit Score®
86/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
