As a single woman it was very important for me to live in an area that was safe given that the medical school schedule will require me to come home at night. Also it gives me great peace of mind to live in a building with doormen 24/7 in case anything were to happen. However, this has come at at a great cost.
South Loop is quieter than the Loop, but you will get more space. Ideal for parents, people with partners that work remotely, or people looking for more space for their money. Outside of Bears games, has far fewer tourists to deal with than the Loop.
Across Michigan Ave from Grant Park. 10-minute walk from the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and Soldier Field.
Roosevelt station is very close by and incredibly convenient if you don't mind taking the train or buses, but it is a transit hub, so expect increased numbers and variety of people.
Not far from the rest of the Loop, and you can still easily make your way north for study groups and social events.
The neighborhood is great. It has become so much nicer in the past few years due to all of the new building that have gone up. The Roosevelt stop can be a little sketchy from time to time but I just stay alert when I’m over there. Having a Trader Joe’s, Mariano’s, Target, Wholefoods and Jewel nearby is super nice.
Great neighborhood with beautiful views of the city. Really starting to boom and will continue to grow to be one of the hottest in the city. Does not feel 'neighborhood-y' as some of the western and northern neighborhoods due. Feels like you're still in an urban environment, just outside of the loop.
The area is still up and coming. There are plenty of grocery stores and some shopping that is easily drivable. It is much cleaner than the loop area. The nightlife scene isn't great, but there are a few good restaurants in the area. Also can't beat living across from Grant Park! The Loop area and River North is walkable, or very easy with public transportation.
It's a lot livelier than Hyde Park, and you are far more connected to the rest of Chicago. Printer's Row feels a lot safer too, and I do not feel as concerned when I walk around at night. It has great little bars and restaurants, and is close to a Trader Joe's, Jewel, and Target. There is a Mariano's and Whole Foods a few minutes further away.
Close to everything, but not so close it's congested or a headache to get from place to place. Trader Joe's, Jewel, nearby. Plenty of bars and restaurants walking distance. Walking distance to the el, Soldier Field, the Shedd. Also, easy access to the expressway if you're driving.Street parking is typically plentiful, except during events at Solider Field (parking ban during games).
If went further south than 22ND street it tends to get a little sketchy, but overall a nice area.
Printer's Row is near the Loop and train stations and is therefore easily accessible. It's also near Grant Park and the Lake which is great during the summer. There are some decent restaurants and a few bars, but if you're young you'll probably be heading up to River North and further north for a night out. Overall, the neighborhood feels very friendly but has a great location, and new construction in the South Loop will surely make Printer's Row even better.
