Moving to Chicago..question

[Drover]

Originally Posted by SoLoMotorRow

If you are in the market to buy, there are alot of places
that are 'throwing in' the parking spot (average 20k - 30k). Just
something to think about when negotiating. Depending on where
you are planning on working, the South Loop is ideal. I live
in the South Loop (Michigan Ave/23rd), but not near the train. I take
the bus up Michigan to downtown, but if I were single, renting, etc.. I would find something near Michigan and 14th OR Roosevelt and State. You have a lot more foot traffic and the all the transportation you could need.

Buying is real practical for someone coming here for school.

[EC1989]

Thanks everyone for all of the helpful info! I might look in to garfield ridge or west elsdon areas? i think thats what they're called unless its really unsafe..

[prairiestate]

Originally Posted by EC1989

Thanks everyone for all of the helpful info! I might look in to garfield ridge or west elsdon areas? i think thats what they're called unless its really unsafe..

Excellent choices. Garfield Ridge has a cop or a fire fighter in every other house. It's quite safe.

West Elsdon has had a bit of gang activity over the past couple years, but it's not unsafe. Crime has remained steady recently, and I don't see it spiraling out of control. If the CPD can get their act together again, they should be able to keep the gangs from establishing a solid foothold in the neighborhood.

Both communities have lots of affordable apartments, good bus service, and they are near the Orange Line.

[smary75]

Originally Posted by EC1989

I am either going to be moving to Chicago next year or the year after for school. I know parking in Chicago can be hard to find, but I was wondering if there are any places in the city you can live and have parking but not have to pay tons of money for just the parking. My ideal place would be close to an 'L' line as well. I have lived in the St. Louis area so dealing with crime is not a HUGE issue for me but I don't want a place thats super rundown or anything... All help is appreciated! Thanks!

Every place that I have rented has had parking. Plenty of landlords offer it and NO I wasn't well off. Now, if you're looking for a heated garage, that's a different story...I've lived in Lakeview, Roscoe Village, Lincoln Square and Roger's Park - all great places to live with easy access to an el. Nowadays lots of condo owners are also renting their units out and they usually have parking spots. It's not like NYC where it's unheard of...

[New2SouthernIL]

The Ravenswood area is pretty good with parking.

[EC1989]

Yea I don't need a heated garage or anything, I'm not that picky! haha