Moving to Chicago in January 2012, working in North field. Looking for best neighbourhood (criteria inside) (Evanston: theater)

[BC86]

Hey All,

Thanks for any help upfront.

I'm moving to Chicago with my wife in January. We'll both be working in Northfield, IL. We're relatively young (25).

We're looking for advice on the best places where we can live. Our criteria, in order of importance, are:

1. Safety
2. Being in the Chicago city-proper
3. Minimizing daily commute
4. Walk able grocery stores, cafes
5. Close to culture/nightlife. We're not big drinkers so leaning on the side of good restaurants, music, theater vs. bars, bars, and bars.

Let's ignore budget for now

Also - if I have to bite the bullet and live in the burbs, are there any suggestions considering again we're 25 and not having kids anytime soon?

Much appreciated folks.

[MOD220]

If I had to be in a suburb I think Evanston would be my first choice. Near the water, more urban, not too far from downtown.

[aragx6]

Check out the thread about commuting to Skokie and damn near double it. The Edens really sucks. Then again, you're both working up there, so you can drive together right? Sitting in traffic never bothers me as much if I have a buddy to keep me company.

I agree with Mod, I'd start my search in Evanston.

[Jandur]

It really just depends on what type of commute you are willing to deal with. As mentioned Evanston could be a good choice but isn't in the city proper. It should be noted that Evanston does have a CTA line that runs into the city, so it's pretty integrated with Chicago.

Beyond that Andersonville or Edgewater could be good choices. Walkable, near the lake and not too bar crazy.

Anything further south and you start looking at a really crappy commute.

[jsk1983]

Some suburban employers offer shuttles from Metra stations to their offices. Might be something to look into.

[nichelledunn]

I like Bucktown or wicker park
Its close to the expressway and relatively artsy and for young couples. Milwaukee Street is awesome. Plenty of shops, restaurant, bars, grocery store.

[Vlajos]

Originally Posted by Jandur

It really just depends on what type of commute you are willing to deal with. As mentioned Evanston could be a good choice but isn't in the city proper. It should be noted that Evanston does have a CTA line that runs into the city, so it's pretty integrated with Chicago.

Beyond that Andersonville or Edgewater could be good choices. Walkable, near the lake and not too bar crazy.

Anything further south and you start looking at a really crappy commute.

This