$488,450Average Value$353Average Price per Sq Ft17Homes For Sale
A historical and trendy mix downtown
After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, city dwellers built elegant waterfront homes in Evanston. Today, residents of Downtown Evanston enjoy distant views of Chicago's glittering skyline by night and sweeping Lake Michigan vistas by day. The area keeps some nostalgic charms with vintage architecture. "It's a unique area where you get the serenity of Lake Michigan's shores along with the busy atmosphere of downtown," says Michael Marin, a managing broker and top producer with Signature Homes Realty.
The streets are bustling in Downtown Evanston.
Whether browsing local shops or dining out, Downtown Evanston offers endless opportunities to explore.
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Northwestern adds college-town flavor
An integral part of Evanston is Northwestern University, just north of downtown. It's the No. 1 college in Illinois, according to Niche. The 240-acre campus links to the much smaller Chicago campus, about 12 miles away, via a free shuttle. The university has approximately 23,000 students and 2,500 faculty members and is Evanston's largest employer.
Northwestern University in Downtown Evanston is ranked a top 10 school.
Downtown Evanston is home to Northwestern University’s park-like campus.
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Picnic pick up, deep-dish circa 1974
Downtown Evanston offers eateries, small businesses, big-box stores, hotels and more. Trader Joe's and Whole Foods Market are right near home. Cupitol Coffee & Eatery serves fresh-baked goods, cold-press juices and all-day brunch. For lunch on the go, pick something up at Picnic, where the menu's full of healthy fare. Giordano's, which started in 1974 in the South Side of Chicago, now has 45 locations in Illinois. Their stuffed deep-dish pizza has received accolades from the Chicago Tribune, the New York Times, Eater and more. Young actors get on stage at Mudlark Theater Company, a non-profit offering camps and classes for youth. For a movie night out, AMC Evanston 12 supplies the flicks.
Downtown Evanston has plenty of delicious food options, like Cupitol Coffee & Eatery.
Downtown Evanston' Picnic has many delicious grain bowls and salads to choose from.
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Art Deco to high-rise apartments
There's a mix of historical and contemporary styles within this waterfront cityscape. "We have a good spread of different architecture, from hundred-year-old lakefront mansions to modern attached condominiums," Marin says. Townhouses, condominiums and apartment blocks line major thoroughfares, sharing curb appeal with modern mid- and high-rises. Apartments make up close to 50% of the property mix. Vintage and historical single-family homes include Tudor Revival and Art Deco styles, plus features like wainscoting, original hardwood flooring, fireplaces and spacious windows. The average listing price in the area is just under $500,000. Twenty percent of homes fall under $200,000 and about 5% are over $1.3 million.
Downtown Evanston’s residential charm shines through its many beautifully landscaped homes.
Modern glass high-rise buildings dot the landscape of Downtown Evanston.
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Parks like Centennial and Raymond
Within walking distance of most downtown homes, Lake Michigan's shoreline is the star. The Northwestern Sailing Center rents out catamarans, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards and windsurfing and sailing lessons are also popular. Public beaches are open during warmer months, with free season passes for those living in specific ZIP codes.A lovely spot for waterside picnics, Clark Street Beach offers volleyball courts. Dog Beach is a favorite for water frolics or off-leash socializing in a fenced area. Centennial Park is the place for a lakeside walk to the peninsula on Northwestern's campus. Amid the manicured green spaces of Raymond Park, there's a playground with an abstract climbing sculpture.
Lake Michigan shines at Centennial Park—just one of Downtown Evanston’s many outdoor gems.
Raymond Park offers a peaceful green escape in Downtown Evanston, perfect for strolls, playtime, and picnics.
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Do's in Downtown Evanston
There are plenty of things to do downtown. Fountain Square's annual Fall Festival offers live music, kids' art activities, ice cream and coffee trucks, food vendors and a maker's market. The Holiday Bazaar hosted by the Woman's Club of Evanston showcases 50 curated vendors of handmade goods. The Young Evanston Artists festival, or YEA!, is held on the third Saturday of May at Raymond Park.
Downtown Evanston’s Trick or Treat event offers the perfect backdrop for festive fall photos.
From dancing to dining, Downtown Evanston’s Night Market keeps the groove going all evening long.
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The L, Divvy bikes and Metra
The Chicago Transit Authority Purple Line L trains run all day between the Chicago Loop and seven stops in Downtown Evanston. The CTA also runs bus routes. Evanston Davis Street Metra station has service on the Union Pacific North line. Traveling south, Chicago's Ogilvie Transportation Center is the fifth stop from Evanston. Going north, it's about 50 miles to Kenosha, Wisconsin, the only Metra stop outside Illinois. There's a Divvy bike share station, plus spots for bike racks, dedicated lanes and tune-up stations. O'Hare International Airport is about 15 miles away.
Downtown Evanston is well-connected by several bus lines, making it easy to explore the neighborhood and beyond.
Downtown Evanston offers seamless access to the Metra train system, making daily commutes smooth and stress-free.
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Public schools include giant ETHS
Children residing in Downtown Evanston may attend public schools like Dewey Elementary, graded A-minus by Niche and Nichols Middle, graded B-plus. Evanston Township High, graded A-plus, is No. 23 in the state, according to Niche. With more than 1.2 million square feet of indoor space, ETHS is the largest single-building high school in the country. Some highlights of the 65-acre campus include a planetarium, greenhouse, swimming pools and tennis courts. There are many private schools in the Evanston area. One of these, Beacon Academy, graded A-plus, is located downtown. It combines an International Baccalaureate curriculum with Montessori principles for ninth through 12th grade.
Nichols Middle School is public school in Downtown Evanston with 687 students in grades 6-8.
Evanston Township High School has many honor-level courses offered to students in Downtown Evanston.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Downtown Evanston neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Downtown Evanston
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
7
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
7
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
7
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Downtown Evanston Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Downtown Evanston, Evanston sell after 22 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Downtown Evanston, Evanston over the last 12 months is $395,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to Unit 803 - the penthouse! This stunning 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo in the heart of Evanston, offers an exceptional blend of space, light, and style. Flooded with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, the thoughtfully designed layout features expansive living and dining areas that flow effortlessly-perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen is a
Courtney Cook@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Spacious 2BR Co-op with Garage Parking in Prime Downtown Evanston Location. Beautifully updated and move-in ready, this bright and spacious 2-bedroom co-op in the heart of downtown Evanston offers both style and convenience. Enjoy high ceilings, pristine parquet flooring, and generous living/dining space with built-in cabinet and large picture window. Enjoy the afternoon light and sunsets from
Wonderful full amenity complex with exquisite exterior gardens/sundeck, indoor pool, workout room, party room and includes 1 assigned garage parking space. This particular 1 bedroom lofted condo is on the 3rd floor with storage located on the same level and parking garage space up one level. Soaring (14') ceiling height, walls of windows with a corner NE exposure make the space feel airy and
Rare 3BR/2BA corner unit with lake views and natural sunlight from three exposures (E/W/N). Unlike interior units, this 12th-floor condo has eastern exposure with unobstructed lake views from the kitchen and living area, plus western exposure with sunset views from the private balcony and northern exposure. The 12th level means better views, less street noise, and more privacy. Recent updates
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic lake views from this stunning 22nd-floor residence in highly sought-after Optima Views, perfectly situated in the heart of Downtown Evanston. This spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath unit offers an open and inviting layout with floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the home with natural light while showcasing spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. The unit also
Liz Anderson@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Welcome to Optima Views Unit 910, where there's much to love and enjoy. Watch the sunrise over Lake Michigan and the sunset in this amazing home! City Views. Great opportunity to live in one of the premier amenity buildings in downtown Evanston and Chicago's North Shore. Large unit features a lovely front hall, and an open living room/dining room/kitchen with floor-to-ceiling windows in every
'Experience sophisticated loft living in the heart of downtown Evanston! This completely renovated luxury loft showcases soaring 11 foot ceilings, wide wood-plank flooring, and an open, sun-filled layout that exudes modern elegance. The Chef's kitchen features sleek new European cabinetry, quartz countertops and backsplash, and a spacious design perfect for entertaining. Gorgeous 9-foot glass
Nora TovellaBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Starck Real Estate
Whether you're searching for your perfect new home or looking to make a smart real estate investment, this stunning unit at The Residences of Sherman Plaza delivers on every level. Located at 807 Davis Street in the heart of vibrant downtown Evanston, this luxury high-rise condominium is an opportunity you won't want to miss - and with rental permission included, the possibilities are truly
Walk to Northwestern University, lake, library, shops, trains from this 1BR/1.5BA condo with a covered parking space. Sliding glass doors in bedroom and living room open to a quiet balcony. Pet friendly elevator building with on-site laundry, guest parking and bicycle storage. Easy to show.
Nancie Johnson@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Sophisticated and spacious two bedrooms, one bath co-op apartment in downtown Evanston! HEATED GARAGE PARKING INCLUDED. Elevator building with additional freight elevator. Lovely renovated kitchen with tons of storage and pantry cabinet. Unit 410 features include: two bedrooms, one bath large closets, hardwood floors, newer replacement windows, large rooms, remodeled kitchen with dishwasher,
Welcome home to the Ridge-Davis Cooperative! This light, bright, and clean two bedroom unit is ready for your vision! Gorgeous parquet flooring throughout, and tons of natural light, this is the fresh slate you have been looking for. Foyer with large closet welcomes you into Unit 502. Spacious living room/dining room affords room to lounge and relax. Updated kitchen with additional pantry
Bright and welcoming 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo in an amazing Evanston location-completely move-in ready! The living room is filled with natural light and opens to a private balcony, perfect for your morning coffee or unwinding at the end of the day. The open layout flows right into a modern kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. You'll love the brand-new carpet, fresh
Charming studio that has been recently painted and fabulously maintained. Walk to everything location. Ideal spot for student living or downsizing. Like new carpeting, new granite countertop in the kitchen, new stove, refrigerator and air conditioner in 2025. Southern exposure that overlooks Raymond Park. Low HOA fee that includes heat and water. Personal storage locker and bike storage. Garage
At Albion Evanston, life beyond the ordinary begins with a community that exceeds all expectation. By blending exclusivity and unparalleled service, each resident can fully immerse themselves in an environmentally green building with a boutique, hotel-style lobby, full-service concierge, and electric car ports. We invite our residents to take in the majestic Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline
One year leases now available for September 2026!-Fully Furnished-Free Utilities-Free High-Speed WiFi-Full Kitchens; Fridge, Cooktop, Dishwasher-In-Unit Washer/Dryer-Dishwasher-On-Site Restaurant & Bar-Cable TV-Exercise Room-Microwave-Cooktop-Pots, Pans, Utensils & Dishes Included-Weekly Housekeeping-Study Areas$2,500/month for 1
Whatever you do, make it yours. The Park Evanston has stylish, open amenity areas—including a huge fitness center, pet spa, and an impressive rooftop pool deck with built in grills—that fit your active, modern lifestyle. Plus, the newly renovated apartments are designed with your style in mind. With an unbeatable location that places everything within steps, The Park Evanston is downtown Evanston
Talk about convenient! The Scholar takes off-campus and Evanston living to a whole new level with private terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows, luxurious finishes, and views of Lake Michigan. Located in downtown Evanston, The Scholar is a short walk from shopping, dining, the lakefront, and much more. With an abundant selection of studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments in a contemporary
Discover maintenance-free living at Avidor Evanston, a premier 55+ active adult community in Evanston, Illinois. Designed for independence and connection, Avidor Evanston offers luxury one and two bedroom apartments with modern finishes and everyday conveniences, allowing you to enjoy life without the burden of home upkeep.Enjoy an engaging lifestyle supported by extensive amenities,
Evanston Place Apartments, located on the North Shore of Chicago, IL 60201, offers new community amenities and upgraded kitchen and bathrooms in select homes! Your time matters, so we skip the hidden fee shuffle. Our prices include required monthly costs, no extra math, no mystery, just the real number. These upgraded homes include stainless steel appliances, modern cabinetry, quartz countertops,
We are conveniently located in downtown Evanston within walking distance of Northwestern University, The Kellogg School and all that Evanston has to offer. This unique building offers Studio, 1-Bedroom and 2-Bedroom units in a comfortable and friendly living environment.
Built in 2024, The Varsity is a brand-new collection of architecturally unique residences in the heart of downtown Evanston which provides a graceful balance between old and new, featuring original exposed brick, tile, and trusses paired with modern finishes.Next to Bookman's Alley and steps away from Lake Michigan, the Varsity is surrounded by retail, dining, and transit options just
Located in the heart of downtown Evanston, Maple Grove Apartments is the perfect place to call home. Part of our Evanston portfolio (Main Station Apartments, The Scholar Apartments.) Shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and cultural attractions are all just blocks away. Our studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments offer luxury condominium finishes.
Ideally located in the heart of downtown Evanston, this property offers unbeatable access to the area's best dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Just steps from restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and public transit, the location combines convenience with a true neighborhood feel. Enjoy a short walk to Northwestern University and take advantage of being only 10 minutes from the lakefront,
1717 Evanston is 8 floors of distinctive apartment homes where local charm and city energy are at your door. Sleek, open floor plans with modern finishes, spectacular layouts, and other resort-like amenities are just steps from Evanston and minutes from Chicago. Each residence features granite countertops in the kitchens, 9 foot ceilings and designer plank flooring. Enjoy luxury amenities such as
First there was the medical genius Dr. Nathan S. Davis, who founded the American Medical Association (AMA) in 1847, following that up with the co-founding of Northwestern Medical School, to eventually become the first editor of Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). 100+ years later, motion picture mastermind John Hughes cemented his place as a local legend, shooting a bevy of
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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