Downtown Evanston

Semi-Urban Feel and Home to Northwestern
Since it's home to Northwestern, Downtown Evanston is the most popular residential area for Kellogg students. Most apartment buildings in Downtown Evanston are a 20 minute walk from the Donald P. Jacobs Center, and several public transport options can cut that commute even further. This safe and highly walkable area has an open feel that one would deem “semi-urban”, and hosts most of the restaurants and bars popular with the student population. Most find this convenient and well established area an ideal place to call home.
What Downtown Evanston Residents
Think About Their Apartments
overall
8.0
value
8.6
amenities
6.2
social
5.9
management
7.5
safety
5.3
Median rents in Downtown Evanston
Studio
$
1,650
1 Bedroom
$
2,100
2 Bedroom
$
2,150

Living in
Downtown Evanston

Great Location
Proximity To Amenities
Great Bars And Restaurants
Walkable
Student Friendly
Easy Commute
Great Accessibility
Social Community
Downtown Evanston — 8.4/10 Rating (based on 511 neighborhood reviews)
Evanston is the epitome of a college town, everything you need and most of what you want is within a 10 minute walk.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Scholar
Very walkable, I can get to pretty much anything I need on foot. Bus stops and the L are not far at all, but service is somewhat irregular. Lots of restaurants in the area, but not all that many very affordable options. No nightlife in the area. Beautiful views of the lake only a short walk away.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1616 Hinman Avenue
Downtown Evanston is a great place to live if you're a NU student. It's super easy to get to campus via either walking or the bus, and has convenient groceries within walking distance. The food scene is not the best, but good enough.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Residences of Sherman Plaza
I really enjoy living in downtown Evanston. Everything that I need is within walking distance, and it is a 10-15 minute walk to my classes.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Safe, walkable area, even late at night depending on the streets you take. Great for convenience in terms of getting to campus, no car needed, access to many public transit options. You lose out in terms of cheap food options and fun nightlife - there are only a couple of bars open after 9PM on the weekends and for cheap food you're stuck with Chipotle or at best Tomate. But the lake and beach are within walking distance and you live close to other NU students making it well worth it for me.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
617-625 Grove St. Apartments
Downtown Evanston has everything you need. E2 is walkable to campus, a Target, and plenty of restaurants, as well as Metra and L stations to get to Chicago. Right across the street is a Subway, a Thai restaurant, and a pizza place, plus there’s a 7-Eleven about a block away, so you’re very close to options if you need food in a pinch.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Perfect for grad school at Northwestern, but otherwise feels a bit suburban without a booming downtown. There are some good food/bar options, but also a handful of abandoned/empty retail locations -- I'm hoping that means new coffee shops/food venues are coming, but it doesn't look like it just yet.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
All in all ideal downtown Evanston location. Very convenient for public transportation to Chicago, next door to local favorite Bennison's (love the late night smell of donuts baking), and walking distance to plenty of bars, restaurants, and stores. Once the Target goes up by Sherman Plaza and we have an alternative to Whole Foods close by this will be perfect.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Pros: Great location near key Kellogg hangouts like World of Beer, Nevins, Five and Dime, Prairie Moon, etc. Also convenient to Bennison's Bakery! Great for late nights- can get home in < 5 minutes without ubering. Also near both Metra and L- ideal if you plan to spend some of your time in downtown Chicago.

Cons: Long walk from the Global hub. Closest grocery store is Whole Foods, a bit of a hike to TJ's and Jewel.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
There's plenty to do, but it still takes some effort to get downtown. If you want the quickest ride (metra), then you have to plan ahead and deal with the (infrequent) train schedule. The purple line only runs express during rush hour. Depending on the time of day, your commute can run 20 minutes to an hour and a half.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
I would 100% live in Evanston when choosing where to live for my time at Kellogg. There are plenty of amenities of all sorts - everything from two (!) Whole Foods and a Trader Joe's to amazing restaurants (Stained Glass, Boltwood, Found) and quick joints (Freshii, Cozy, Blaze, Cheesie's, etc.) to good bars ranging from dive-y (Bat 17) to more upscale (Bangers & Lace) to great retail, workout options (barre, boxing, and regular gyms), salons, and handy storefronts like hardware, cleaners, etc. Feels like home very quickly!
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
I live just south of the main downtown area, and it's the perfect intersection of being close to the action but also a bit removed when you want some quiet. I like being a in a more residential pocket, so there is slightly less foot traffic and really nice areas to walk around with a dog, etc.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1454 Oak Ave
We're one block from the centre of downtown Evanston. Clearly Evanston isn't going to win any awards for nightlife, culture or dynamism. But, you're not going to get than anywhere near campus. Good news is you're 2 blocks from Davis, which gets you to downtown Chicago in 30 mins.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
OHO is very close to all of the downtown Evanston bars and restaurants, but is also a reasonable walk to the HUB. A great perk is being so close to both the L and the Metra - it makes it very convenient to take public transportation to downtown Chicago.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Located right on the edge of downtown, Oak Ave provides a great location for both function and enjoyment. With convenient access to the train system, as well as walking distance from many restaurant and bars, it provides a nice living experience.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1598 Oak
Perfect small town (although it can be quite expensive sometimes). Great student vibe with great restaurants and bars.
And if you're tired of the small town vibe (or if you want to party hard), just head to Chicago, 30-50 minutes away!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
We have Whole Foods next door, a few restaurants across the street, Target 1.5 blocks away, the lakefront 2 blocks away, and a bunch more restaurants within easy walking distance. It's a great little college-town neighborhood.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
For the suburbs, the neighborhood is good-great. There's bars, restaurants, coffee shops , grocery stores, public library, and more. As a city person, the dining out and bar options leave much to be desired.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Best place to live while at Kellogg. Good food. Good bars. All your friends are nearby. Walking distance to school. The El and Metra stations are right there to whisk you to Chicago if you need them.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Experience has been biased during COVID - barely any restaurants or activities / stores are open. Everything is close and convenient to walk or drive to though, which are both huge benefits.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Slightly far from campus (expect a mile walk from most big apartment buildings) but proximate to bars and restaurants. Closeness to train line is great for getting to and from downtown.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Great to live here - it's close to the university, also close to the various town attractions (restaurants, movie theater, stores,etc), and it is relatively easy to get downtown Chicago.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
It's right downtown, closer than some of the other buildings. There's not too much to do in Evanston, but living in Evanston is a must if you want to get to know your other classmates.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Albion Evanston
The building is next to a mental halfway house. It's really nice being close to Jewel/Trader Joe's, but it's so far from campus, which hurts in the winter. Close to LA Fitness though.
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Reviewed by
3
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1420 Chicago
Nearby the Davis Metra and Purple line stops, near local dining and post office.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1621 Ridge Ave
All of the chains. Decent mix of eating and drinking options. Slightly sketchy pockets but in general a nice town. As a student, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Closest building to the Hub in terms of popular Kellogg buildings
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Neighborhood is literally the reason to live here. It's in the center of everything, right next to a Whole Foods, and a straight shot down Sheridan to get to campus.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Has a Whole Foods and CVS. Convenient proximity to a huge variety of downtown Evanston restaurants, gyms, bars, stores, etc. One of the closest areas to the Jake.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
It is my first time living in a walkable city and it is great!
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
It's great being close to the Metra and L, plus we're right near restaurants, the movie theater, and above Evanston Rocks for those Tuesday night get-togethers.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Church Street Condos
Great smaller neighborhood with tons of students living nearby. Good access to transportation, bars, and restaurants. Also only 30 minutes away from chicago.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
I love Evanston! It's an awesome suburb with excellent restaurants, proximity to the lake, and relatively easy public transportation to downtown Chicago.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
It's convenient to walk to the Hub (probably save 5-7 minutes). As a tradeoff, it's a little bit of a further walk to Target and the stores in Evanston.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Right by the train and most other Kellogg buildings
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Have had no issues with neighbors in the building community; there are restaurants, groceries, dry cleaning, the library, and more all within a block
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Place
About a block away from the metra station. Close to restaurants and bars. Pretty far walk to the Kellogg Hub. Closest grocery store is Whole Foods.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
good location, near Whole Foods, the restaurant, everyone in Evanston is basically in the same location, everything is 5mn walk, it's a small town
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Love the location of E2. While it's not quite in downtown, it's closer to the Hub than downtown and a 5-10 minute walk from any restaurants/bars
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Love Downtown Evanston! It has everything you need - grocery stores, gyms, a Target!, restaurants, salons, etc. Very walkable and feels safe.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
This is probably one of the best location in town. In walking range to almost everything - school, restaurants, groceries, bars, trains, etc.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Very walkable downtown, with several restaurants and shops easily in walking distance. Also, close to parks and the lake which is very nice.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
I love downtown Evanston. It is young and vibrant and bustling. The energy here is great and people are pretty friendly for the most part.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Downtown Evanston is great. There is enough going on for it not to feel boring, but it is quaint enough to feel like a real neighborhood.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Awesome restaurant and bar options 5-10 minutes. Nice diversity of casual dining and fancy. 2 gyms and a Whole Foods within 10 min walk.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
Has a variety of restaurants and bars, and has become classier with unique options especially in the last year. Feels like a community.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Downtown Evanston is the best place to live if you care about being close to school and close the majority of your Kellogg classmates.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
For a suburb it's got a lot going for it. Bars, restaurants, easy access to the lakefront, campus, and CTA/Metra into the city.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
I love the numerous coffee shops, restaurants, & other businesses in downtown Evanston, all within close walking distance.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Albion Evanston
Right in downtown Evanston so it's easy to get to everything - also really close to transit into Chicago. Easy walk to school.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Everything is nearby, which is great on cold days when you want to get food or see people - you're close to most everyone.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Good neighbourhood, no concerns at all. It’s the perfect distance from downtown while still being in a residential area.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1420 Chicago
I love how green and cozy it is. Minutes away from the lake, grocery stores, train station. Lots of families with kids.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1408 Hinman Ave
Great for people without cars. Good walking distance to Trader Joe's/Union Pizza/Osco. 15 minute walk to school. Safe.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
617-625 Grove St. Apartments
This is a prime location - 5 minutes from E2, Optima Horizons, and McManus. Across from the movie theater and Chili's
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
A nice little town that has a bit of everything, and is also close enough to hop a train or uber to downtown Chicago.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Evanston is a beautiful town with lots to offer. Both the CTA and Metra trains are a 3-5 minute walk from downtown.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Galleria
There are tons of bars and restaurants in walking distance. It is also a quick walk to the el and metra trains.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Good location for Northwestern or Kellogg students. Between the bar and restaurant scene and campus buildings.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to all the restaurants and bars in the area, just still a small suburb and less exciting than downtown.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Downtown Evanston is as hip as it'll get for Evanston. Most restaurants, bars, and shops are located here.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Closest apartment to campus, Whole foods is next building, its only a minute walk from downtown Evanston.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
close to supermarkets (whole foods), coffee shops, transit, restaurants, and bars. also close to school!
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Close to everything in downtown Evanston, new building will add at least 5 mins to the walk to Kellogg.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Close to campus, close to bars and restaurants. Pretty safe. Right by an El stop. Solid neighborhood.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
E2 is a ~20 minute walk from Northwestern's campus. The building is < 10 minutes from Target, CVS, Starbucks, etc. The building is also central to other popular buildings that grad students live in, which was a top priority for me. Downtown Evanston is relatively safe, but you do need to use common sense walking at night as it can get pretty quiet after dinner.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Great! A bit further of a walk from campus, but hey, that's exercise! Close to restaurants and bars.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
617-625 Grove St. Apartments
The Galleria is right in the middle of downtown Evanston, which has a ton of shops and restaurants.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Cute neighborhood that's generally safe and is walking distance to a lot of restaurants and stores.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
Small town feel. Bear anything you could want/need, except school which is about a 25 minute walk
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Easy access to Target, CVS, Coletivo. Also bus stop that goes to school right across the stret!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Close proximity to downtown Evanston, public transit and (relatively) closer walk to Global Hub
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Very close to school, Whole Foods etc. Great access to running trails along the lake as well.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Church Street Condos
Convenient location for walk Kellogg Global Hub, as well as nearby stores & restaurants.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
20 min walk to campus. 1 block to Whole Foods. 3 blocks to downtown Evanston. 20 min to E2.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
The building is a bit far out from the main restaurants/bars, but walkable to everything.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Best area to live for a Kellogg student: you're near the Hub and close to other students
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Downtown Evanston has lots of quick and affordable food options within walking distance.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
As mentioned, it's right by 1717, E2, and the Reserve, so it's close to a huge amount of Kellogg students. It borders a residential part of Evanston which is quiet, nice, wonderful, etc. It's a little far from campus (25 minute walk) but it's close to L and Metra (less than 10 minutes).
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1228 Emerson St
5 minute walk from CVS, restaurants, bars; 10 minutes to Whole Foods; 20 minutes to TJs
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
We are very close to the farmers market and not too far outside of downtown Evanston.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to grocery stores and restaurants. Very easy access to Lake Michigan as well!
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Place
Great for restaurants and bars - also, there are some really useful shops close by.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
The heart of Evanston - all the restaurants, bars, etc. that the area has to offer
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Everything is within walking distance, and both the El and Metra are a block away.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Restauraunts are close by. <2 minute walk to metra and L stops. Great location
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Close to downtown evanston. There's also a new 7/11 that's within 2 minute walk.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Not a lot of people with young kids living in the area, but a lot of pet owners.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Neighborhood feels safe and is closer than other apartment complexes to the hub
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Located right near downtown Evanston and one of the closer buildings to school
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Location right across the street from Evanston Rocks is convenient on Tuesdays
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Sienna Court
Most of the restaurants and bars are pretty close by. Not too far from school.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
Lots of houses on our street, but only 2 blocks from Cupitol and Trader Joes.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1406 Elmwood Ave
Very close to downtown, very close to the quieter neighborhood and the beach
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Right downtown Evanston - you can't get much closer to the things you need.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Great community, everyone is super friendly. Close to bars and restaurants.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
Good coffee shops, close to many of the bars that Kellogg folks frequent.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
617-625 Grove St. Apartments
McManus is conveniently located close to restaurants and grocery stores.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
There is no other place that's better if you want to be near everything
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Downtown Evanston has all the amenities you might reasonably need, while being easily connected to the rest of Chicago by ample public transit options. Only real downside is that it feels expensive for a suburb, particularly given the neighborhoods in northern Chicago.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
We are across from the movie theater and Chilis. In our local neighborhood, we have shopping, events, bars, restaurants, and are a close walk for the Tuesday night parties. The Frost Bite stops by our front door, and both Davis Street stations are a block away or less.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Generally convenient for getting to campus and close to downtown area
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Slightly farther from GLUB than most places but it's been manageable. Takes me 20 mins to get to GLUB via walking. Like how it is closer to Jewel Osco and Trader Joes which is convenient when you have non-student JV at home. Also very close to Dempster street stop.
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5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
It's really nice and safe on Hinman Ave. It's quite but still very near bars and restaurants (walkable). I can also make it to class in 12 minutes. Several of my classmates live nearby too. I especially like being a block from the Whole Foods and the Evanston Library.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Good central location in Evanston
Close to bars and other apartment buildings that other Kellogg students live in
~25 minute walk to the Global Hub
Evanston itself is just a little boring - no night life
Very close to Davis Metra station and Purple Line
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
Close to everything you need: Target, gyms, the L and the Metra.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Bars, restaurants, a grocery store, and not too far from campus!
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Nice, close to the school as well as other restaurants and bars.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Close to Smylie Brothers, 5 and Dime, Bennisons and other Evanston bars and restaurants. Across the street from a park and a school, and about a block from Northwestern PD, so very safe. 201 bus stop a few hundred feet away gets you to campus in about 10 minutes.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1567 Ridge Avenue
Further from the bars but a tad closer to school. Super social!
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Bit expensive for student living, but provides all essentials.
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Reviewed by
9
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Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
The neighborhood is great - close to transit and food options.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak Avenue
Close enough to most Kellogg gatherings in downtown Evanston!
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Sienna Court
West Evanston, just on the other side of the Metra railroad.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1228 Emerson Street
Very nice area of town. I like all parts and restaurants.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1570 ELMWOOD AVE
Location is great right in the heart of downtown Evanston
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Enough to do that it doesn't get boring - very walkable!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Love being near all the downtown shops and restaurants.
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3
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1570 Oak Avenue
The Park Evanston feels pretty convenient to everything
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Great town with lots of bars, restaurants, and shops!
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Plenty of places to go out, fairly close to the city
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close enough to hub, no reason not to live downtown
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to all supermarkets, 25 mins walk to Kellogg
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Evanston has everything you need - places to eat, lakefront beaches, and the Metra and L run right through town so you can get to downtown Chicago. The main downside is that restaurants are not open late and there are better food options downtown.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
It is a great town for grad school. Lots of nearby restaurants and bars. It is still close enough to Chicago to get the city feel, but far enough that you get to bond closely with your classmates and not deal with the bustle of a big city.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2
The apartment is central to downtown and is walking distance to most bars, restaurants, shops, beach, etc. Evanston is a bit of a sleepy town (especially during the pandemic...I've been told it was much more vibrant pre-pandemic).
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Nothing is far away. Bus/Rail, bars, restaurants, and town is right here. The grocery stores are farther (0.5 miles) if you don't want to shop at Whole Foods. The Jake is about 12 minutes walking. The new building will be farther.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Residences of Sherman Plaza
Building is close to downtown Evanston (10-15 min walk) where there are lots of food and bars. It’s also about 20 min walk to the global hub which is closer than some other buildings that Kellogg students live in downtown.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
I like being in downtown Evanston because I'm close to both the Metra and L. I also like being close to the restaurants, bars and to a decent gym. I have to walk a block to get to a park for my dog but it's not that bad.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Of the neighborhoods in the area, it's the one to be. But if we're comparing to places across the country in general, it's fine. There's not much to do but it's where the other students are so that makes it worth it
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
E2 is a great place to live for location. I can get to Starbucks/Chipotle/the bars in under 10 minutes. The El and Metra are not far away either. The walk to school is a bit long, but so are the other buildings
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Decent spot with lots of other student near by. Good coffee, bars and restaurants but for a fun night most people go downtown to Chicago. 1717 is very close to the metra stop and is a quick ride downtown.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
Downtown Evanston is very safe and quiet.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Feels safe and lots of stuff to do
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1111 Church Street Evanston
It's a college town, so it's got its share of bars and restaurants fit for student budgets. It's a perfectly fine place to live for your time at Kellogg and close enough to the Jake / Global Hub.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
You are really close to the bars and the other buildings where most students live (Optima Views, E2, Park Evanston). You are also only a 15 minute walk from campus so it is a good in between.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
20 minute walk or a quick bike ride to class. The commute to class is well worth being close to all the places you'll go outside of class (bars, restaurants, coffee shops, grocery store).
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
E2 is not really in Downtown Evanston, so would consider it its own neighborhood.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to most of the bars Kellogg student's go to which is really convenient; also close to the metra and the CTA purple line. Only bad thing is it's a 1.1 mile walk to Kellogg
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Very close to bars, restaurants, and movie theater. Also close to other apartments where Kellogg students live. 12-15 minute walk to campus, very few students in the building.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Church Street Condos
Great, safe neighborhood. Right across the street from World Market which comes in handy and some food options close by. Slightly far from the hub, though (~18 minute walk).
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
As good as anywhere in downtown Evanston. Close to restaurants, Davis St. Station, etc. A bit of a walk from the social hub at E2, but that really hasn't been an issue.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Hinman House
Not necessarily a bad thing for Centrum specifically, but there are a large amount of homeless people and solicitors all around the downtown area on a daily basis.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Close to many “Kellogg” apartment buildings! Further from restaurants and downtown activities. Same 20 minute walk to campus as any other apartment building haha
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
It's close to everything. Supermarkets, bars, the school are all within walking distance but at the same time it's on a quiet street, so really good for our baby
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
The most fun part of Evanston, which is still not very fun.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1570 Oak Avenue
Not to far away from campus and in a very safe part of town. Apartment is close to Davis Station and many handy stores (bakery, supermarket, take-out places)
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Maple Grove
Building is in downtown Evanston, close to all the bars / restaurants that Kellogg students hang out at. Close to the metra and subway stations as well.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Close walk to campus with lots of shops, restaurants and grocery store. Most Kellogg students live in this area, so there is a great social community.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Close to Northwestern's campus. Only Whole Foods is nearby, Trader Joe's is a bike ride away. Feels like a safe area, but I'm a guy in my late 20s.
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1134 Church
It's better to be close to bars and restaurants than it is to be close to the Global Hub (though you pay a premium for it). Live here if you can.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Cure neighborhood, but E2 is a 5 minute walk from the closest restaurant (Chili's) and about 7-10 minutes to get into the heart of the town.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to campus, grocery store is a bit of a far walk (but that's true of most places that are close to the jake), close to bars
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Evanston Place is right in the heart of Evanston, close to everything that you might need. Community at EP is very friendly
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Place
Evanston is a very charming college town. Unfortunately not as convenient as I would like to get into downtown Chicago.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Good neighborhood, albeit a little inconvenient to a convenience store and downtown (relative to other apt complexes)
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
It's fine. You can walk to restaurants, and everyday places (e.g. grocery stores, UPS) are within a short drive.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Not the best restaurants but enough variety of decent ones to choose from. Walkable with friendly neighbors.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Evanston is evanston. You should 100% live in evanston while you're at Kellogg, but it is not chicago.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
i never have any problem with the neighbor. most people in the building go to kellogg or nothwestern
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Near everything you need (shops, trains, restaurants), but a little far from the new Global Hub.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Residences of Sherman Plaza
Convenient, good food options, good for social reasons. Cons: way overpriced for what you get.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Typical college town, a few bars, good restaurants and stores. Everything shuts down by 10pm
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Good neighborhood but have had issues with people's packages being stolen from the lobby.
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
Evanston is great and is especially busy for a suburb! I just prefer downtown Chicago.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
The only downside here is that the nearest cheap supermarket is a bit out of hand.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Right by Evanston restaurants, a few blocks from Clark St. Beach, closet to NU
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
The food options are a bit of a walk but nothing is far in Evanston
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Great for downtown evanston, but a 25 minute walk to kellogg
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Not close to affordable groceries (Trader Joes is far)
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Evanston is no cultural center, but it's comfortable.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Residences of Sherman Plaza
Lots of yummy places to eat and nothing is too far!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
617-625 Grove St. Apartments
The neighborhood is mostly nice and relatively close to campus. It is a 20 minute walk to the Global Hub, 5 min walk to the L, and a nice bike lane on Chicago Ave.

Unfortunately, there are always beggars outside Whole Foods.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Solid college town
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Maeve on Ridge
It's not right in the middle of downtown, but it's about an 6-8 minute walk to everything in downtown Evanston and in exchange you get a huge floorplan and really nice building.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1228 Emerson St
So many places are closed or close early. Not sure why you would live here unless you have to be close to Northwestern.
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717 Evanston
Right above Panera in the middle of downtown Evanston. 20-25 minute walk/7 minute bike ride to the HUB.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Walkable from most necessities. Groceries are a bit more difficult given location (assuming no car).
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Love living in downtown Evanston!
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Walking distance from basically everything!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
quiet neighbourhood but super friendly
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
Amazing to be next to wholefoods!
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Close to school, almost all students live here.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Walking distance to lots of restaurants and shops
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Nice quaint town. Variety of food options.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Around the corner from Cupitol!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Albion Evanston
Tons to do, but also quiet at times
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Great location and neighborhood!
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Close to E2, cinema, train station.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Very safe
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
Convenient for everything.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1420 Chicago
close to whole food just downstair
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Place
Very walkable. Cute restaurants.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Great to be so close to downtown.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Good ability to walk to most places.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Convenient
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Very close to everything you would need.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Easy to walk pretty much anywhere
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Evanston is a nice, suburban town.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
You have everything you need at a 5 minute walk!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Friendly nice area
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Great place to live for getting to campus.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
Very happy with the area.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Safe and close to everything
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Good location
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
It's the best you are going to get in Evanston
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Right in the heart of downtown Evanston
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
everything you need.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Close to downtown Evanston bars and restaurants
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Wouldn't live anywhere else while in school
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Extremely safe
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Everything is in walking distance
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Amazing location
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Really safe and convenient.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Safe and super close to shopping / pre-schools
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Close to bars
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Good spot
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Safe and easy.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
Heavanston, enough said
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Residences of Sherman Plaza
Safe and fun neighborhood
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Best place to live
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
So cute.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
close to downtown!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Super central
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Close to everything you need!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Very easy to get downtown, great food options
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
It's the heart of the social scene at Kellogg.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Heavanston
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Not too far from anything
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Love Evanston.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to everywhere. Safe.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
The place to live if you go to Kellogg
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
Close to everything.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Great area, but 10 min walk from campus
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
It's in downtown Evanston and near everything.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Close to Campus, Close To Bars
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
Everything necessary is within walking distance but I wish there were more nightlife options.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Close to campus, coffee shops, restaurants and bars. I wouldn't live anywhere else.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Most things are within walking distance - would be more convenient with a car
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to everything, but nothing immediately convenient besides 7/11
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Not much going on in Evanston but nice to walk around
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Easy walk to downtown Evanston and to Kellogg
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Coming from NYC it’s a little quiet 😂
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Not bad.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1420 Chicago
Its fine.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
close to kellogg... about 15-18 min walk
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Great, far from chicago.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Things are expensive. Have limited restaurants.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Safe. Good for Kellogg students. Lacks character.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Great nabe.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
Very safe though slightly inconvenient
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
It's a college town!
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Sienna Court
Good
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Good
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Lacking in nearby grocery stores
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to everything Evanston has to offer.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Lots of apartments and family homes in the area. I always see someone riding their bike or walking throughout the day. It's a block from the police station, and only 2-3 blocks to downtown. Close to intercampus shuttle, 201 bus stop (3 blocks), and Dempster purple line (1.5 blocks). Nice area to live, quiet at night.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1406 Elmwood Ave
Six minutes from the global hub
Five minutes to Trader Joe's/Jewel Osco 2 minutes to Whole Foods and all the Chicago Ave restaurants/bars
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
I like the calmness of the town. It's usually safe to walk around, though I don't travel much after sunset. Many grocery stores and interesting shops in walking distance. The rent is high for a student but not entirely unaffordable.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
Excellent neighborhood. Close to Northwestern, with lots of restaurants and coffee shops and easy access to transit.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
The neighborhood is pretty good, with a good location and tasty restaurants nearby.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Evanston really is a nice town. There's loads of food, both chains and otherwise, and a number of shops and things if you don't mind moving around a little. Driving in the greater Evanston area is not a lot of fun, I will say. I get the sense that the city doesn't much like the University and its constituents, and that the students don't always respect the city. It's not a perfect relationship, but it works. I can easily walk or take transit to class on the Evanston campus, and when I have class in Chicago I take transit, which usually takes more than an hour in the morning and close to an hour coming home.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Clark Street Apartments
Downtown Evanston is super cute! There are tons of restaurants and a handful of bars so I find that it offers a good bit of variety for the neighborhood size. There are street festivals, a great farmers market, summer concerts in the square and other community events I've enjoyed. Would highly recommend Evanston anyone who wants access to the city but a self-sufficient "urban burb" type neighborhood.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
McManus is located right next to Evanston downtown, so everything (restaurants, bars, groceries) is very close by. It's also right next to Northwestern campus (~15-18 minutes to Kellogg Global Hub by foot), which helps quite a lot, esp. in the winter when you'd want to keep your commute as short as possible.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Great downtown location, two blocks to Whole Foods, 8min walk to Trader Joes/Jewel, 2 blocks from the lake front, across the street from a park, decent walk to campus (and campus shuttle stop outside). It's a quick 1.5 blocks to Nevins, Prairie Moon, Bar Louie, Cupitol and Bangers and Lace, and less than 10min to all the other bars students frequent.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
531 Grove St
I love this location. It is very close to the Jake (10-15 minutes walking door to door) but also close to bars, restaurants, etc. Living at E2 also means that there are lots of Kellogg students in the building and nearby apartments (e.g., Optima Horizons and Optima Views). I would highly recommend the general downtown Evanston location to other students.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Hinman Ave is only one block east of the main street in Evanston (Chicago Ave). It's a beautiful, quiet tree-lined street that has more of a neighborhood feel. It's a convenient location: 10-15 minute walk from the Jake, 5 minutes from Whole Foods, and less than 10 minutes from Trader Joes. It's far enough away from the hustle and bustle that you won't get distracted, but close enough that it doesn't feel like a big effort to go out at night if you want to. Lots of restaurants and coffee shops within a 5 minute walk.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Hinman House
Centrum is very close to Davis station, where you can take both the subway and the Metra to Chicago. Also, it is not the closest building from any grocery store but it is relatively close to a all of them (Jewel Osco, Trader Joes, Target and Whole Foods), which gives you options.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Love being near all of the restaurants in Evanston, makes it easy for social events. Walk to campus has been very reasonable (great excuse to get some exercise / listen to a podcast). Also very close to the lake, love that it's a great area to take walks.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Albion Evanston
Downtown is the place to live. You can walk to get groceries, get to campus within 20 minutes walking, even shorter by bus or quickest by bike. Most people live downtown so social activities revolve around apartment hangs/pregames and local bars.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
It’s nice to be close to the farmer’s market on Saturdays in the summer/fall, but overall it’s a little bit out of the way. It’s a bit of a walk to Target, Whole Foods, and Evanston restaurants and definitely a hike to the Kellogg Global Hub.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Generally a nice area but not a lot in terms of things to do or good restaurants. There are lots of average restaurants though
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Good location, quiet, fairly safe. Wish there more places open later and more diverse grocery options in walkable distance
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1111 Church Street Evanston
McManus is a super convenient location both for social events and recruiting chats (which often happen at the Hilton opposite). Bars, supermarket and the theater are all within a 2 min walk, even in winter
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Coming from Chicago, I thought that I would not like Evanston given the fact that it's a "suburb." I was so wrong. Downtown Evanston has everything you would want in a small city. It's great.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
I'm glad I live here. It's extremely easy to get to all the recruiting and social events in Evanston. It's right by both train stations. All the food and bars are within a few minutes walk.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Evanston isn't downtown Chicago, but taken at face value, it has a lot of convenient offerings, is picturesque, and is far better than a lot of non-big city college/B-school's locations.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
You are expending most of your time out of class here, meeting team at McManus or cafes, meeting friends at bat17 or 27live, grocery shopping and so on. Highly recommend staying nearby!
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Close to downtown Evanston but a bit far from E2/the reserve. One of closest apartments to Trader Joes/Whole Foods/Jewel Osco while also being close to campus. Very close to the lake!
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7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
7-8 min walk to all the restaurants
3-4 min walk to train
1 min walk 201 bus you can take to campus
pretty good connectivity and has bunch of Kellogg folks in the building
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
Evanston would be a sleepy, family-only area if not for all of the Kellogg students. There aren't many bars and the restaurants can be hit-or-miss, however it's very walkable
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Closest to the Global Hub and close to restaurants, supermarket etc
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Access to everything you need e.g., groceries, gas, tailor etc. Some new restaurants and bars are beginning to open up. Minimum 20 minute walk to Kellogg Global Hub.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
I really like Evanston; it is a bit small in but that really fosters a sense of community. There are also a lot of bars close by which makes it easy to plan things.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
I love being in walking distance to everything downtown since I don’t have a car. It is also very easy to hop on the Metra or the L to go downtown for any reason.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Church Street Condos
Everything is just a couple of blocks away and it feels clean and safe day and night. Wish that there was a less expensive grocery store instead of Whole Foods.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Place
Perfectly centered between WholeFoods, Trader Joes and Jewel Osco; walking distance to great restaurants and bars, 15-20min walk to Kellogg, 5-7min bike ride.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Would definitely recommend downtown Evanston to incoming Kellogg students. Easy to get everything you need without a car and it’s where most students live.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Love living in downtown Evanston! It's close to all the other apartment buildings. Restaurants, groceries, and the global hub are all a short walk away.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Albion Evanston
The neighborhood is fine, walking distance to a lot
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
At Optima Horizons you are right around the corner from the EAC which is a great gym. You are also close to a lot of the restaurants downtown and bars.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Everything you would want is mostly in walking distance. It is especially nice being very close to CVS and the gym I joined (Evanston Atheltic Club)
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Everything is walking distance (with the exception that Jewel and Trader Joes is about a 20 minute walk)--happy to be in the downtown Evanston area
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Easy access to transportation, bars & restaurants, shops, and other people. You can get to campus in 10 minutes walking or 5 minutes by bike.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Right in the middle of downtown Evanston, close to the L, close to the hub (15-17m walk), close to lots of popular bars/restaurants in Evanston
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Small town, close to chicago by public transit (train and metro options available at walking distance), lots of restaurants and things to do!
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Really nice living within walking distance of 90% of your classmates. Good access to grocery stores, restaurants, bars, transit to downtown.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Great place to live, not too far of a walk from the Hub, super quick access to multiple types of public transit, lots of good restaurants.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Church Street Condos
easy walk to Chili's, subway, cleaners, pizza hut and a chinese food place.

Less an easy walk to Target, or other grocery stores.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
McManus's Downtown Evanston location is fantastic! Conveniently located close to the station, great restaurants, convenience stores, etc.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Located in the heart of downtown, everything is close by, including friends and classmates in buildings like Park Evanston and Centrum.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
Living between a TJ's and Whole Foods is great! Plus being close to a lot of the popular bars and restaurants makes everything easier.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
E2 is a pretty short walk from downtown so plenty of food options. The grocery store is fairly far though so does require driving.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Safe, good bars and restaurants. A bit far from grocery stores (besides downtown Evanston Whole Foods) if you don't have a car.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Best to live in Evanston close to the hub if possible; living downtown really hurts your ability to engage outside of classes.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
E2 is just outside of the center of Evanston, so very close to all of the restaurants and bars the neighborhood has to offer.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Downtown Evanston has everything you need from a downtown including grocery stores, restaurants, and convenience stores.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Convenient! 3 minutes walk to Wholefoods (supermarket) and close to restaurants. Less than 20 minutes walk to Global Hub
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
You cannot beat the location. It's a very short walking distance to everything... the Jake, bars, restaurants, even e2.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Great location for Evanston's bar/restaurant options. Will be somewhat farther from the new Kellogg building, however.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Great restaurants, bars, and grocery stores in walking distance. Close enough to Kellogg and great daily convenience.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
This is the place to be as a Kellogg student. Super close to school as well as restaurants, bars and other students.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Best neighborhood in Evanston with 5-10 min walk from bars and restaurants, 2 gyms and a Whole Foods within 10 mins
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
While E2 is slightly farther from school than a few other buildings, the location is great for everything else
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
I think our neighborhood is quite safe and quiet. Close to supermarkets, such as Trader Joe's and Jewel Osco.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
Evanston is very fun! It's a little small, but with 1000 people at kellogg, anywhere we go ends up being fun!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Quiet and safe neighborhood. Enough restaurant and cafe choices within 10 minutes walk from the apartment.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Evanston is safe. Easy to get into Chicago, especially if you live close to the Davis stop (el and metra)
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Anything you need is within a 5 minute walk (groceries, coffee, restaurants, fast casual options, etc.)
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Definitely nice to live within walking distance of school and all bars / restaurants / grocery stores
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Downtown Evanston is great - plenty of great food within walking distance, Metra and El trains right nearby, a really nice place to be. Only downside is it's far from school and the only truly walkable grocery store is a Whole Foods, which can get expensive. Overall, wouldn't want to live elsewhere though.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
This isn't right in the center of downtown Evanston, so it's not as well-lit as other areas. It feels very safe though, and there are lots of restaurants and grocery stores close by on both ends (towards downtown Evanston and towards Dempster/Main Street). It takes just over 20 minutes to walk to school, and bus stops (both Northwestern and CTA) are within a 5-minute walk. I really like this part of the neighborhood because it is more affordable than other areas.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
Overall very convenient to Kellogg. However, it's by the tracks.
Those areas do get a little sketchy at night and might not be the safest to walk back after a late night party at other buildings.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
E2 is a quick walk from downtown Evanston and is close to L and Metra stops for trips into the city
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to downtown Evanston without being far from campus. Near grocery store, restaurants and bars.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Smack in the city center, a 15min walk from the Global Hub and close to all the Evanston action.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
I wouldn't live anywhere else in Evanston. Close to everything that matters other than school.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Maple Grove
Excellent. Quite and convenient spot close to the police office building and fire department.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Maple Grove
There are no shortage of things to get involved with at Kellogg that will keep you on campus.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Optima Views is in a great location. It is a two minute walk to the CTA and Metra and is also close to all of the downtown Evanston restaurants and shops. The building is also in close proximity to good workout options including Evanston Athletic Club and studios (Pure Barre & Cyclebar).
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Just north of downtown evanston but closer to the global hub than most apartment buildings.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Everything you need is close by. 2 minute walk to the L and the metra (train to Chicago)
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
It's great to be in downtown Evanston, which is close to many quick service restaurants.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
walking distance from downtown Evanston and great location for the new kellogg building.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Best place to live that is close to Northwestern and accessible to Chicago via transit.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Great location close to grocery stores, restaurants, the lake, and easy walk to school.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
If you like to be in the center of the city with all the restaurants and main shops!
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
Excellent college town with lots of restaurants and campus within walking distance.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Lots of sketchy homeless around, but everyone seems harmless. Never had any issues
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Convenient to the Global Hub and downtown Evanston restaurants, bars, and transit!
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Evanston is a large suburb. There are plenty of restaurants, stores, and services.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Located downtown Evanston - close to many restaurants and bars as well as campus.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Living right next to Whole Foods is ideal. Evanston has most of what you'd need!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Walkable, no need for a car, and lots of good restaurant/entertainment options.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
It's nice but there aren't a ton of stores in Evanston and they all close early
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Love how easy it is to get to restaurants and pop on the CTA or metra downtown
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Nothing special but close to other people's apartments and walkable to school.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Lots of restaurants and shops nearby. Will be farther from campus soon though.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Neighborhood is great. Plenty of places to eat, exercise, etc. Very walkable!
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Kellogg students, NU students and some elderly. Few families. Lots of pets.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Slightly further from campus than other options (but small amount overall).
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
-convenient downtown location, close to restaurants, bars, grocery stores
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Church Street Condos
Downtown Evanston is wonderful. It's close to everything and very social.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Highly walkable with cute coffee shops, restaurants, and local shopping
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Nice, but restaurants get old after a while. Also a few safety issues.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
It is close to downtown and walking distance to everything important.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Doesn't get any better than this, as far as staying in Evanston goes.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Residences of Sherman Plaza
Close to public transportation and lots of Davis Street restaurants.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
Nearby Whole Foods, Whiskey Thief, and other going out establisments
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Walking distance to campus and anything you would need in Downtown.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to bars/restaurants and not too far of a walk from Kelogg.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Albion Evanston
Lots of cool shops and coffee shops around -- Davis St is great.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Just minutes away from Jewel Osco, Whole Foods and Trader Joe's.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
I don't think there is any other place to live if you are a Kellogg student. Almost all the students live in this neighborhood, it's where all the restaurants are, and near the University and the train. The only place in Evanston that doesn't feels like a suburb.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Good neighborhood. Decent restaurants and bars for the suburbs.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Lakeview Terrace
Close to the Jake and main Evanston attractions but also quiet.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
lots of places have closed down to covid or have limited hours
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Evanston is great! Downtown has a lot of restaurants and shops
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Most things in walking distance; cheap groceries hard to find
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Very walkable, close to public transit, close to the lake
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Very central. Close to all downtown bars and restaurants.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
All bars, coffee shops and restaurants are a short walk.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1570 Oak Avenue
I love being close to both stretches of downtown Evanston - the Dempster and Chicago intersection with Union Pizzeria, etc. and Nevins, Coralie, Vinic, etc. as well as close walking distance to Whiskey Thief, Found, Bat 17, World of Beer, La Macchina, etc.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
Everything is good. Except that E2 is on the western edge, slightly north of downtown, so not exactly smack in the middle. There are better properties if you want to be in the middle of downtown Evanston, all of which are no further from NU campus anyway.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Everything you need can be found in downtown evanston.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
I believe the apartment could be better all around in regards to amenities. I do the like the management and the value is pretty fair. I am looking to move in the next year or so as I plan to get a new job closer to the loop where I love to be and eat.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Lafayette Condos
Great, near school and other large student buildings
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
Close to campus and public transit, feels very safe
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
There isn't much to do here, but that's true pretty much everywhere in Evanston. We're in walking distance to all of "downtown" Evanston, so restaurants / fast food / subway, etc. It's a slightly longer walk than desired to Kellogg, but that's fine.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Albion Evanston
The neighborhood is great and we are directly across the street from the movie theater and restaurants. It's easy to take the train into the city from here as well. However, when the new building opens the walk time will increase significantly.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Enough restaurants and access to public transportation to meet almost all my needs. Having a car or a grocery delivery service makes it even better as the closest walking distance option is Whole Foods which isn't as budget-friendly.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1645 Ridge Ave
Great, quiet neighbourhood. Lots of students around obviously (mainly grad students in this area).

Pricey, for sure. Not a lot of cheap grocery/food options within walking distance.

The bar scene is mediocre at best.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
The neighborhood is great and it is centrally located. There is grass around for walking dogs and the movie theater and restaurants are close by. It is somewhat far from the new Kellogg building, but most everything is now.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Evanston is a great town. It has different types of restaurants, gyms, bars, shops and key stores. My only complaint is that the nearest grocery store is a 20 minute walk, which is long when you're carrying a lot of bags.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Evanston is great. The apartment is near Trader Joes, Jewel Osco, Binny's and Whole Foods (5 min walking). Lots of restaurant options nearby as well as anything you'd need for errands (post office, target, gyms, etc).
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
Most Kellogg students live in downtown Evanston, everything is walking distance, and the building is a block away from the Intercampus bus stop, and 7 min walk distance from Davis station, which is very convenient.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Hinman House
Neighborhood is good. Evanston in general is great place to be. Can walk to restaurants as close as 5 min and get to the heart of dowtown Evanston in about 10 min. Walk to the Global Hub is around 20-25 min.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Hinman is a very quiet street, full of trees and green areas. The apartment is very close to all you will need while leaving in Evanston (University, beach, restaurants, pubs, daycare, CVS, bank, etc.).
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1700 Hinman Avenue
Perfect for school
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Its nice to have everything you need within walking distance - from fast casual restaurants to bars, sit-down restaurants and CVS. It provides all the convenience you need for your busy student life.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
The apartment is at the center of downtown Evanston, so it is convenient in all purposes like dining, drinking, shopping, etc. Also, the CTA and Metra stations are right next to the apartment.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Residences of Sherman Plaza
Nice neighborhood with lots of restaurants, some shops and bars. Definitely has some 'college town' feel to it with Northwestern but also a fair number of families and young professionals.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Plenty to offer; lots of restaurants, bars, and common services (hardware store, movie theater, CVS, etc). Close to the L and Metra, as well as the lake. Overall, a great place to be!
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
We're really close to downtown Evanston where most students live. It takes about 20-25min to walk to school but people often Uber together so it only comes out to $1-$2 a person.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Evanston is cute, but it’s definitely a suburb. Lots of chain restaurants and those that aren’t chains will not impress those coming from bigger cities with great food scenes.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
Block from Whole Foods, three blocks from the lakefront/parks, five blocks from Trader Joes and the CTA/Metra stations, ten minute walk from the Jacobs Center. Great location
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Not too much to do, lots of homeless, but still a great town overall.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Walking distance to everything you need: Jewel Osco, WholeFoods, Trader Joe's, Prairie Moon, Whiskey Thief, Bat 17, etc. NU shuttle stop is located across the street.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
I love that I'm close to all of the restaurants, bars, etc. in downtown Evanston, though the apartment is further than average from the Global Hub (~25 min walk).
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1576 Oak
Really like living in downtown Evanston. Would definitely recommend living in Evanston if attending full-time as it helps you build relationships with classmates
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
The building is a bit removed from Downtown Evanston. There are a couple of nearby restaurants, but is a 5 minute walk from downtown and 10 minutes from campus.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Very quiet and safe area with a cute little downtown with nice little restaurants.
It is missing a couple more bars and places to grab a drink after class.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Property is right off Davis, which has tons of restaurants and bars. There are generally people out at night. Many other apartment buildings in the area.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
The building is a few blocks from the lake and about one block away from Whole Foods. Add a 15-20 minute walk to the Glub and it's pretty hard to beat.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
About a 12 minute walk to the Jake. No nearby grocery stores. Walking to the East is perfectly safe, but walking West brings you to a sketchy area.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
You get sick of the same bars and restaurants all the time but there are new ones popping up everyday. Really easy to get to campus and downtown.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Walkable to all downtown restaurants; however the only close grocery store is Whole Foods, which gets expensive. Trade Joe's is pretty far away.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Close to everything, including campus, metra and CTA. The only complaint is that the grocery store options are a little far away.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
It is close to downtown evanston but still further than other buildings and the streets to walk there are very dark and lonely.
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
A fair number of bars and restaurants to go to with friends. Not too far from Chicago if you’re looking for more to do.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Trader Joe's, Jewel Osco and Whole Foods are close by. There are also several good restaurants within walking distance.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
Where most grad students live. Convenient to one another, 20 minute walk to campus (feels very long in the winter)
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
8 minute bike ride to Global Hub, 20'ish minute walk. Plenty of grocery. Public transit to downotwn is great.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
E2 is a little removed from the bars and restaurants of Evanston, but is an easy 10 minute walk to the Jake.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Not as close to the main drag of Evanston as other apartment buildings that Kellogg students live in.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Although a little bit of a walk from campus it isn't bad. Close to grocery stores and restaurants.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
Good overall. Nice places to take dogs on walk around this area (in neighborhoods behind unit).
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1228 Emerson St
A little far from grocery stores, bars, and restaurants but convenient for Kellog social life
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
This is next to a retirement community. There is 0 crime in the area and it is very quiet.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Right in downtown Evanston. Close to bars and restaurants. About a 20min walk to campus
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Evanston is a great place but has a limited number of restaurants and bars to visit
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
Tons of restaurants and other shops close by, but also lots of homeless people.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
A little too close to Ridge & not close enough to a convenience store.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1717
If you go to Kellogg, you should probably live here. It's fine.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
E2 is slightly further away from some things but whatever
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Great. Bars, restaurants, shops, close to davis stop.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
There's an organization for mental patients nearby.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1420 Chicago
Safe, a little far from food/grocery but sufficient
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to everything
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
It’s close to campus which I like
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Not much around in terms of food. Can walk to Whole Foods and Target, but about a 5-10 minute walk. Most people without a car get groceries delivered.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Like a Hilton garden inn - gets the job done and is clean but missing a lot of culture and fun bars and restaurants.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Very cute downtown area. Lots of restaurants and bars to chose from for weekend or week night outings.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1700 Hinman Avenue
There isn't that much in the neighborhood, but it's a safe place with retail within walking distance.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Great place to be
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
lots of kellogg students at oho
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Peaceful neighbor, but sometimes too quiet
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Good neighborhood for students
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Lots of food options, feels safe!
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Great for students!
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
The building is in an excellent location
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Nice small neighborhood
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Walking distance to campus, restaurants, bars
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
There could be more restaurants in the area.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Albion Evanston
You can find everything close by
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Right next to Davis Street
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5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1575 Oak
Safe, convenient, and has nice view
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1509 Hinman
Great spot
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
I am super close to everything in Evanston
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
Close to Whole Foods, Starbucks, CVS, and Target.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Everything is close, great neighborhood
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
great - close to train. close to restaurants.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Close to everything. Half a block from WholeFoods
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Lakeview Terrace
very convenient
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Most are Kellogg students
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
Great spot to be!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
5-10 min away from anything
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to other main living areas for MBA students
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Everything you need is walking distance.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Close to school and close to restaurants/bars!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Where all social activity happens.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Love being this close to everything in Evanston.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Great neighborhood, close to everything.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Good location overall.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Everything so close
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Evanston is very safe!
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Perfect - Evanston is lovely
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Close to everything.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Great location.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
John Evans Building
Lots of restaurants and bars close by.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Great, no issues.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Near lots of restaurants
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Close to restaurants bars shops and more
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1410 Chicago
Awesome, close to everyting
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Super close to everything in downtown Evanston.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
everything is walkable
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Excellent
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Good to be close to everything in evanston
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
It is close to all the bar/restaurant scene.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Avenue
Good enough
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Towers
I wouldn't live in a different part of town
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Very convenient
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Safe
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Safe, nice
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1500 Chicago Ave
Love living in evanston!
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Great neighborhood, right in the middle of things
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Close to downtown Evandton
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Most central apartment building
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Evanston Galleria
Never had any problem
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
Quiet, Safe
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Residences of Sherman Plaza
Relatively close to campus and downtown evanston.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Good for a suburban experience, but leaves a lot to be desired if you're used to living in a city
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Very nice location - the sirens can be a bit noisy going down Emerson Street, though.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Located in downtown close to bars/restaurtants and right next to the L and Metra.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
This is where everyone lives but there's not a lot going on these days.
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Church Street Condos
Very cute! Not amazing restaurants, but enough basic options.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
No neighborhood
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
All the shops and restaurants are close by.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Centrum Evanston
quiet and quaint street
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
1414 Elmwood Avenue
A little quiet but a nice town.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston
It's about a 25 minute walk to class
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Walk to the Hub is 15-20 minutes.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Safe and quiet.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Not much communication.
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Solid
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Sienna Court
Fun but tiny and quiet
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Views
Boring but fun.
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Optima Horizons
Average college town
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Reviewed by
7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Downtown is nice
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
McManus Living-Learning Center
Evanston is nice but not that close to Chicago
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
E2 Apartments
Walkable. Good takeout but limited options.
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Reviewed by
6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Park Evanston


Getting to Know
Downtown Evanston

Neighborhood Boundaries
East to West Boundaries: Sheridan Rd to Ashland Ave
North to South Boundaries: Emerson St to Greenwood St
dining
Bangers & Lace
Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza
Hearth Restaurant
Table To Stix Ramen
grocery
Whole Foods
convenience
7-Eleven
fitness
Bikram Yoga
Evanston Athletic Club
The Barre Code
TITLE Boxing Club
parks
Clark Street Beach
Dawes Park
Merrick Rose Garden
coffee
Andy’s Frozen Custard
Delbe’s Corner Cafe
G.R.I.N.D Cafe and Bistro
Peet’s Coffee & Tea
bus
201 (bus)
205 (bus)
93 (bus)
rail
Purple Line (metro)
About your Neighbors
Data from the 2013 American Community Survey
Zip Codes
Downtown Evanston includes zip code 60201
Rent vs Own
39
% of Downtown Evanston residents are renters
Driving to Work
49
% of Downtown Evanston residents drive to work
New Construction
12
% of housing units in Downtown Evanston have been built in the last 15 years
Building Types
65
%
<20 units
15
%
20-49 units
21
%
50+ units
Demographics
Children (under 18)
18
%
18 - 34
36
%
35 - 54
22
%
55+
23
%
Unit Mix
7
%
Studio
19
%
1 Bed
30
%
2 Bed
44
%
3+ Bed
Occupation or Education
Working Professional
53
%
Undergrad Student
25
%
Grad Student
9
%
Unemployed
4
%
Retired
8
%

Best Apartments
in Downtown Evanston

819 Foster Street
2 Beds $3,000

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Residences of Sherman Plaza
1 Bed $2,800
2 Beds $2,700
3 Beds $5,000

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Lakeview Terrace
1 Bed $1,375
2 Beds $1,950

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1925 Sherman Avenue
2 Beds $2,000

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Church Street Condos
1 Bed $2,000
2 Beds $2,300
3 Beds $3,500

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Optima Horizons
1 Bed $2,495
2 Beds $2,850
3 Beds $4,600

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Nearby Neighborhoods

Neighborhood Guide
Northeast Evanston
Suburban Setting & Popular for Kellogg MBA Students
Neighborhood Guide
Dewey-Darrow
Quiet Neighborhood Close to Downtown Evanston
Neighborhood Guide
Oakton
The Historic District Within Evanston