Moving to Ukranian Village (Need Information on potential address) (Chicago: apartments, home)

[src5tt]

Hey all,

I'm looking into moving to Chicago this summer for a job and am looking at apartments in the Ukranian Village. I'll be working in Downers Grove so access to 290 is very crucial. I've heard great things about the Ukranian Village area and wanted to make sure the area is (1) safe (2) has plenty of things to do (bars/coffee shops/restaurants). The apartment i'm looking at is at Maplewood and Chicago. Is anyone familiar with this block/area? Any advice would be much appreciated!

Thanks,

SRC5tt

[JustinHaugens]

Tell you the truth, if you're going to be driving to work, it may be wise to alter your plans. With the construction on 290 just beginning, driving may not be in your best interest.

You have two blunt choices for this:

Live in Downers Grove and take the Metra to the city when desired.

Live in UK Village and commute via Metra/CTA to Downers Grove. The BNSF line runs right through DG and it all depends on how far you live from that line.

I guess there is a third choice, live in UK Village and suffer the traffic driving to DG.

[src5tt]

Thanks for the advice Justin. Are you familiar with this neighborhood? Any thoughts on the questions above?

[JustinHaugens]

I'm not very familiar with the neighborhood, just weary of someone setting themselves up for a potential commuting nightmare. It's not that you knew that but just giving a couple simple suggestions.

Also, if you're interested in taking the Metra from the city to DG, you could ride a bike from home to the Western Metra stop, it's about three miles away. Since you're reverse commuting, you can bring your bike aboard the train during rush hour. Also, if Western is not in the same zone as Halsted or Union Station, Western to DG would be cheaper since you're riding a shorter distance.

[5Lakes]

I know the area. If the apartment is south of Chicago Ave around Smith Park then it's in a nice area. Going north of Chicago things get a bit suspect after a few blocks. I would not choose live in the area over there that is north of Augusta Ave and west of Western Ave.

As far as amenities go you will be fine. Everything you need can be found along Chicago Ave in UK Village. Some cool places along Western also. Overall I really like the vibe of that area. If you want more action then just head up to Division Street or the center of Wicker Park.

[WhaThe]

I like it here but, if I worked in the burbs I would probably just buy a car and live in the burbs.

As much as I would hate it I would hate the commute more.

[kdizzle]

I live in Ukie Village and the whole "west of Western is scary" meme is ridiculous. You will be near the Black Beetle and several other fun places. People are friendly and there is plenty to do. Welcome to the neighborhood. Don't let people freak you out.