Developed in the late 19th century by a handful of Chicago’s most elite families, the Gold Coast has certainly retained its grandeur over the decades. “It’s a fabulous location just north of the city, right along the lake,” says Cyd Archer, a 30-year resident and Broker with @properties, the city's number one brokerage. “You’ve got older buildings with beautiful views of the lake, historic townhomes and larger estates. You can walk everywhere. There are organic farmer’s markets and concerts; I mean, you don’t even have to leave the neighborhood if you don’t want to.” Adorned with greenery just blocks from Lincoln Park and Oak Street Beach, the Gold Coast is considerably one of Chicago’s elite communities.
Gold Coast is full of high-rise condos with waterfront views of Lake Michigan.
Lincoln Park Zoo has an expansive campus that Gold Coast residents love to explore.
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Historic rowhomes with conservatories for streets
Chicago’s Gold Coast offers a refined combination of ornate rowhomes and high-rise condominiums. Many single-family properties were constructed in the late 19th century, flaunting stone and brick façades in Richardsonian Romanesque and Queen Anne styles. Behind their wrought iron gates, lush and well-maintained gardens accompany shrubs and trees, turning residential streets into miniature conservatories. These rowhomes are typically priced between $1 million and $7 million, with higher-end builds exceeding 9,000 square feet. “A few of the blocks are landmark districts, meaning they can’t be altered, which is really nice,” Archer says. Meanwhile, the wide price range of condominiums is almost entirely dependent on square footage, proximity to Lake Michigan and additional amenities like balconies, rooftop patios and fireplaces. Homebuyers may find 2,000-square-foot options for $190,000, while those with 4,000 square feet and beyond can reach well above $1 million.
Gold Coast features many condo buildings that have amazing views of the lake.
There are many historic single family homes in the Gold Coast neighborhood.
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Skylight brunches and/or late-night cravings
La Colombe Coffee Roasters may be a local favorite, but the Gold Coast is also home to a handful of critically acclaimed brunch spots that visitors swear by. Blue Door Kitchen and Garden is a farm-to-table institution led by Art Smith—the former chef of Oprah Winfrey—whose vision is driven by fresh, seasonal produce. The posh ambiance of 3 Arts Club Café is situated inside of Restoration Hardware. Under the glow of a skylit garden, guests dine from a curated menu of artisanal American fare. Of course, Chicagoans can still enjoy the grittiness of a late-night craving at Dublin’s Bar & Grill, open 365 days a year until 4 a.m. The Oak Street District is well-known for its collection of luxury houses like Dolce & Gabbana and Chanel. Though the average errand run can be had along Division Street at Jewel-Osco or Target Grocery.
Butch McGuire's is one of the oldest bars in Gold Coast with a great atmosphere.
Three Arts Club is a great place to get lunch in Gold Coast.
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All the splendor of a festival in The Loop
The Porchlight Music Theater is an occasional hub for plays and off-Broadway shows. But residents of the Gold Coast are just 2 miles from the splendor of a festival in The Loop. Chicago’s Blues and Jazz Festivals, alongside Lollapalooza, attract hundreds of thousands of music fans to The Loop every year, while Taste of Chicago remains the city’s largest festival overall. The scent of hot chocolate and sweet roasted nuts envelops Daley Plaza during the holiday season as guests flock to the Christkindlemarket. Back home, “Aster Street has a block party every year open for residents,” Archer says. “Down on Division Street, they have summer markets with fruits, vegetables and flowers. The Old Town Art Festival has been going on for about 50 years, and in the winter, they light up the zoo for families.”
With three stages and over 250 artist, Blues Fest is one of Chicagos best summertime events.
Old Town Art Fair takes place on Wells Street and features a large number of artists.
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Public education with Chicago Public Schools
Families are zoned for the Chicago Public School District 299, beginning at Ogden International School. The East and Jenner campuses enroll kindergarten through eighth-grade students, altogether earning a grade of B-minus on Niche. Those graduating from Ogden’s Middle School are automatically eligible to attend the high school, also known as West Campus. With a B on Niche, this magnet school for the arts ranks ninth in the state among other public arts high schools. Students can also enroll at Lincoln Park High School, offering more than 60 clubs and organizations with an A on Niche.
Ogden International School of Chicago
Lincoln Park High School main grand four pillar entrance, Chicago, IL.
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Mere walking distance from Lake Michigan’s shoreline
Arguably, the biggest draw to the Gold Coast is its proximity to Lake Michigan, often appreciated on warm days at Oak Street Beach. There, the towering Chicago skyline contrasts expansive views of the water, where guests can enjoy the sandy dunes or walk a few blocks north to Concrete Beach for sturdier ground. The Lakefront Trail is a go-to for walkers and cyclists, extending 19 miles along the shore. “Where the Gold Coast ends, Lincoln Park begins—it’s one of the busiest parks in the United States,” Archer explains. “They have baseball diamonds and soccer fields, the zoo, lagoons, a history museum. There’s all kinds of stuff to do there.” The Lincoln Park Conservatory boasts a plethora of unique species of flora, while the zoo attracts millions of visitors each year.
Residents can head east from River North to The Lakefront Trail.
Oak St beach at the North end of Mag Mile is a great place to catch some sun in the summer.
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Ditching the car for CTA’s Red Line
Owning a personal vehicle is the opposite of convenient on the Gold Coast. “You really don’t need a car,” Archer says. You can walk everywhere. There are buses that’ll take you downtown, plus the elevated trains and the subway. There’s permitted parking on the street, but not nearly enough for everyone who lives here.” A Ventra Card secures easy access to the Red Line, where the closest L station is Clark/Division. CTA also provides 24-hour subway train service, while bus stops line Lake Shore Drive, Clark, Division and Rush Street. Many also opt for ridesharing or taxi service. Residents can expect a 45-minute to hour-long commute to both Chicago Midway International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Northwestern Memorial Hospital serves as the closest emergency room, just a mile south on Michigan Avenue.
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Gold Coast is a charming escape in the city. Housing some of the wealthiest individuals, it is a mix or the successful and driven.
5.0Current Resident
7/31/2019Niche Review
Gold Coast is the heart of Chicago, you are close to amazing restaurants, shopping, great hospitals, schools, easy access to public transportation, and the highway.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Gold Coast
US
Homicide
1
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
3
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Gold Coast Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Gold Coast, Chicago sell after 46 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Gold Coast, Chicago over the last 12 months is $510,000, up 17% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Luxury living awaits in this unique duplex in the historic 1924 Churchill building in the heart of the Gold Coast. Located at State and Goethe, residents have easy access to Lincoln Park, upscale shopping, and top-rated dining. This spacious two-bedroom, three-bathroom unit features hardwood flooring, radiant floor heating in all bathrooms, an in-unit washer/dryer, and a private 450 square foot
This expansive 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom combined unit in Chicago's iconic Gold Coast offers 2,400 square feet of elegant living with top-tier upgrades and thoughtful design throughout. The open concept kitchen which features granite counters, maple millwork and premium appliances, perfect for the modern home cook or entertainer. Additional room off of main room could be used as family/media room or
This exceptional 10th-floor unit in the Gold Coast neighborhood embodies modern elegance. With 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, it features an open floor plan, hardwood floors throughout, and oversized windows offering South, East, and West exposures. The kitchen is a highlight, showcasing custom cabinets, high-end stainless steel appliances (including a wine fridge), granite countertops, and a
Experience the elegance of this beautifully renovated duplex-up condo that lives like a single-family home in the sky. Completed in 2021, this showstopping renovation features designer-caliber finishes and an expansive layout ideal for modern living and entertaining. The open-concept main level impresses with a gourmet kitchen outfitted with GE Cafe appliances, an integrated refrigerator,
Your dream home on Lake Shore Drive awaits. FOUR UNITS COMBINED! This can also be split up into multiple units. Only priced at $207 per sqft. Best priced in Chicago above 4,000 sqft! Amazing opportunity to customize this 4,800 SF condo in Gold Coast with over 70 feet of stunning lake and city views. Enjoy the fireworks of Navy Pier from the comfort of your living room. The elevator opens to a
Enjoy unobstructed views of Lincoln Park from this bright and updated 1-bedroom condo on the north edge of the Gold Coast. Unit features engineered hardwood floors, tall windows, and an open-concept layout. The kitchen includes leathered granite countertops, crisp white cabinets, a breakfast bar, and stainless steel appliances. The spacious bedroom also offers north facing tree line views.
Located just steps from the scenic Lakeshore Path and Lake Michigan, and with the Clark and Division Red Line at your doorstep, you'll discover a lifestyle that truly embodies the best of Chicago. We've meticulously designed each residence to provide a haven amidst the city's excitement, ensuring you find the perfect balance between serenity and urban living.
High-floor south exposure, great city views. Kitchen has honey oak cabinets and white appliances which include gas range and refrigerator. Heat, a/c, water, basic cable and internet (Astound package) are all included. Tenant pays electricity. 24-hour door staff, rooftop pool and sundeck, large laundry room - card not coin, garage parking - separate fee is with SP+, check their website for current
Virginia EnglandBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago
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