Overview of 60654, Chicago
The 60654 zip code is home to one of Chicago’s most polished and energetic neighborhoods: River North. Bordered by the Chicago River, the Kennedy Expressway, and Michigan Avenue, this dense downtown enclave offers a lifestyle packed with luxury high-rises, world-class restaurants, gallery-filled side streets, and quick access to the Loop. If you're seeking upscale urban living with a walk-to-everything lifestyle, 60654 delivers it in style.
Demographics of 60654
River North’s portion of 60654 is home to around 25,000 residents, with a median age in the early 30s and a professional, highly educated population. Most residents are young to mid-career professionals who work in finance, tech, advertising, or law, and many choose 60654 for its short walk to the Loop and elevated quality of life. Over 75% of households are renter-occupied, and the average household income far exceeds the city average, often topping $120,000. The density of luxury towers and converted loft buildings reflects a neighborhood built for convenience and style. While not as family-oriented as other neighborhoods, River North’s proximity to the riverfront, theaters, and high-end dining makes it one of Chicago’s most desirable zip codes for singles and couples alike.
Overview of the 60654 Rental Market
Rentals in 60654 are dominated by modern high-rise developments and sleek boutique apartment buildings. Residents can choose from full-amenity towers with rooftop pools and co-working lounges or opt for character-rich lofts with exposed brick and timber ceilings.
Rents reflect the premium location and lifestyle—studios average between $2,100 and $2,800, while one-bedrooms range from $2,700 to $3,600. Two-bedrooms typically rent between $3,900 and $5,300, and three-bedroom units, often in luxury towers, can reach $7,000 or more. Whether you're working downtown or want a home base near nightlife, shopping, and the riverwalk, 60654 makes it easy to live well without commuting far.
Where to Eat and Drink in 60654, Chicago
Restaurants in 60654
Dining out in 60654 feels like an event every night of the week. From refined Italian to bold global flavors, River North’s restaurants set the bar high. RPM Italian is a go-to for contemporary takes on classic dishes, while Ema offers Mediterranean small plates with California ease. For shareable bites and house wine, Quartino delivers a reliably fun atmosphere.
Brunch lovers gravitate toward Beatrix for their veggie-forward plates and upbeat vibe, while Sushi-san serves up some of the freshest fish in the city in a hip, music-filled setting. And if you’re celebrating—or just want a great steak—Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf offers unmatched ambiance and rich, indulgent fare in a dimly lit setting that feels timeless.
Coffee Shops in 60654
Café culture in 60654 is modern, design-forward, and built to fuel fast-paced weekdays. Limitless Coffee turns heads with its bright interiors and signature charcoal and glitter lattes, while Fairgrounds Cafe blends craft coffee and tea from a variety of roasters in a colorful, energizing space perfect for remote work or a casual catch-up.
Foxtrot Market is a favorite for its grab-and-go convenience, while Caffe Umbria adds a traditional espresso bar feel to the mix. These shops often double as remote work hubs during the day and social gathering spots in the evening, especially with the area’s high concentration of professionals and creatives.
Bars in 60654
Nightlife in 60654 runs the full spectrum—from rooftop cocktails to hidden speakeasies to late-night dance floors. Three Dots and a Dash is a must-visit tiki bar tucked beneath the streets, known for extravagant rum drinks and tropical decor. Celeste offers four distinct floors of experiences, including a gorgeous rooftop greenhouse lounge.
For something quieter, The Franklin Room is an upscale, under-the-radar cocktail bar with one of the most extensive whiskey lists in Chicago. Party seekers often head to Underground for late-night DJs and bottle service, while places like Headquarters Beercade bring vintage arcade games and craft beers together for a fun, laid-back alternative to River North’s glitzier spots.
Schools and Higher Education in 60654
Public, Private, and Charter Schools
Although 60654 skews more urban and adult-oriented, there are still several educational options nearby for residents with children. The neighborhood is served by the Chicago Public School system, and nearby schools include Ogden International School, a highly-rated public option offering an International Baccalaureate curriculum.
Frances Xavier Warde School, located within 60654, offers a private Catholic education from preschool through eighth grade and is a popular choice among local families. For more specialized or international education, GEMS World Academy is a short commute away and offers a globally focused private school experience through 12th grade.
Colleges, universities and higher learning institutions
There are no universities directly located within 60654, but the area is surrounded by prominent academic institutions. Northwestern University’s Chicago Campus, University of Chicago’s Gleacher Center, and DePaul University’s Loop Campus are all within a 10–15 minute commute. These programs draw graduate students and professionals who often choose to live in River North for its proximity to both campus and city life.
Getting Around 60654, Chicago
Public Transportation in 60654, Chicago
60654 is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Chicago, and transit access only adds to its appeal. The Red Line stops at North/Division and Chicago Avenue, while the Brown and Purple Lines stop at the Merchandise Mart.
Bus lines like the #22 Clark, #65 Grand, and #156 LaSalle serve the area frequently, and Divvy stations are located on almost every major corner for quick bike commutes. Most residents in 60654 don’t rely on cars thanks to the abundance of transit options, short commutes, and urban design.
Parking in 60654, Chicago
Parking in 60654 can be expensive and limited, especially during peak hours or weekends. Many residential buildings offer garage parking for an additional fee, typically between $250 and $375 per month. Street parking is mostly metered, and during busy nightlife hours, it can be difficult to find a spot without a dedicated space.
If you own a car, apps like SpotHero and ParkChicago make a huge difference for both short-term and monthly options.
Traffic in 60654, Chicago
Being downtown has its perks—but easy traffic isn’t one of them. River North experiences significant congestion during rush hours, particularly near Grand, Clark, and Ontario. Proximity to the Kennedy Expressway makes the area convenient for outbound travel, but expect delays during evening commutes.
Pedestrian and rideshare traffic is heavy most evenings, especially near popular nightlife and hotel corridors. Longtime residents often rely on walking, biking, or CTA trains to navigate quickly and avoid the gridlock.