East Village Chicago Apartments

East Village has a perfect mix of old-school charm and new-age hipness. Sitting between Wicker Park and Ukrainian Village, it's a pocket of Chicago with tree-lined streets, beautiful vintage rentals, cutting-edge art galleries, and hip restaurants. Whether you like to end the day with a craft beer at a century-old bar or silently grunt your way through a modern yoga class, you’ve got options!

Demographics of East Village 

East Village is a melting pot, and that's what makes it so awesome. On a people-watching day, you’ll spot young professionals rubbing elbows with long-time residents, artists sharing sidewalks with families pushing strollers, and maybe even a pop-up lemonade stand. It's diverse, with a strong Hispanic community that adds a colorful cultural flair to the neighborhood.

The median age hovers around the early 30s, but don't let that fool you. With 20,000 unique individuals calling this hood home, there's a place for everyone. The median income is around $75k, which means there are rentals in all price ranges, from budget-friendly bungalows to cloud-kissing luxe apartments.

Weather in East Village

Chicago weather is famously unpredictable, and East Village gets to enjoy all of it. Summers are a dream - warm and perfect for hanging out in the neighborhood's parks or sipping a cold one on a restaurant patio. Fall is stunning, with the trees turning into a canopy of reds and golds. Winter is.. Well, it's Chicago, so it gets cold. But there's something magical about the neighborhood under a blanket of snow. And when spring rolls around, the whole area seems to come alive again.

Location of East Village

East Village is tucked away on Chicago's Near West Side and not too far from downtown. It's close enough to the action but with its own distinct vibe. Bordered by Division Street to the north, Chicago Avenue to the south, Damen Avenue to the west, and Ashland Avenue to the east, renting an apartment here puts you in prime position for city living.

Downtown's practically in our backyard, being only a 10-minute drive or a 15-minute ride on the Blue Line. You're looking at:

• 3 miles to the Loop
• 2 miles to Millennium Park
• 4 miles to Navy Pier
• 1 mile to Wicker Park
• 5 miles to Lincoln Park Zoo

Transportation in East Village 

Access to Highways

East Village is conveniently close to these major arteries:

• I-90/94 Kennedy Expressway is just a mile east
• I-290 Eisenhower Expressway is about 2 miles south

These'll get you zipping to the suburbs or out of state in no time.

CTA Bus Routes in East Village

Multiple bus routes crisscross the neighborhood like a well-designed web:

• #9 Ashland
• #49 Western
• #50 Damen
• #66 Chicago
• #70 Division

Using these, it's a super quick connection to train lines and other parts of the city.

Metra Train

While there's no Metra stop directly in East Village, we're not far from some quality options:

• The Clybourn Metra station on the Union Pacific North line is about 2 miles northeast
• Ogilvie Transportation Center, with multiple Metra lines, is about 3 miles east

Parking Options and Availability

Parking in East Village fares better than many neighborhoods, but it’s still city living. Street parking is your main option, and it's mostly free, which is a big win. Just keep an eye out for those pesky permit zones, and always check the signs for street cleaning days. Nobody wants to wake up to a ticket or, worse, a missing car.

If you're lucky, you might snag an apartment with a dedicated spot, which is like striking gold in this city. For those not so fortunate, there are a few public lots scattered around, especially near the bustling Division Street area. They can be a lifesaver when street parking gets tight, which it often does on weekends or during events.

What to Do in East Village

East Village is like a playground for grown-ups. There's always something going on, whether you're into art, food, music, or just people-watching. On any given day, you might stumble upon a pop-up art show in a converted warehouse, a craft beer tasting at a local brewery, or a spontaneous street performance. The neighborhood has this infectious energy that makes even a simple walk to the corner store feel like an adventure.

Local Shopping in East Village

Shopping in East Village is far from your run-of-the-mill mall experience. Division Street is lined with an eclectic mix of boutiques that'll make your wallet beg for mercy. There are vintage shops where you can unearth retro treasures Circa Modern, independent clothing stores Penelope’s and Altar Home perfect for lazy Sunday browsing, and quirky gift shops Paperish Mess for when you need something unique. Don't miss the artisanal food markets Garden Gourmet Market; they're a goldmine for foodies. And if you're into vinyl, the record stores here (we’re looking at you, Dusty Groove) will keep you digging through crates for hours.

Restaurants in East Village

Forget about cooking - East Village's food scene is too good to pass up. We've got everything from hole-in-the-wall taco joints like Janik’s Cafe that'll transport you straight to Mexico to upscale brunch spots like Yolk, where the menu changes with the seasons. There's Podhalanka, a Polish restaurant and bar that serves pierogies that'll make you weep with joy, and Phodega, a Vietnamese pho shop that's become the hood’s go-to hangover cure. For date night, hit up the cozy Italian trattoria Via Carducci La Sorella, where the pasta is fresh fresh fresh. And for those summertime handhelds, Mac’s Wood Grilled is a serious contender for the best burger in Chicago.

Coffee Shops in East Village

If caffeine is your love language, you're in for a treat. East Village takes its coffee seriously and you’ll have quite a few spots to try out. Wake N Bakery has an ambiance that makes work-from-café super charming and they don’t skimp on the strength of their lattes. Engine Coffee is cool without trying and is known for having a music playlist as tantalizing as its drink menu. There’s also a Starbucks and Philz, for when you need your coffee to be exactly the same every day (no judgment!)

Nightlife in East Village

East Village has a lot of great places to end the night. For craft beer enthusiasts, there's Forbidden Root and Restaurant, an industrial chic spot with experimental brews. If cocktails are more your speed, hit up Little Victories; their mixologists work magic. For those nights when you need a little somethin’ extra with your drinks, Bordel hosts all sorts of acts, from “weirdo night” with hoola hoops and fire dancing to burlesque evenings that rouse the crowd with a whirlwind of activity. There’s also Zakopane, known for its Polish Vodka, Loop Tavern & Liquor for a local dive-bar vibe, and Beatnik, for when you need the décor to be on par with your lively outfit.

Museums in East Village

East Village itself doesn't have any museums within its official borders, but that doesn’t mean we're culturally deprived. The Ukrainian National Museum sits just west of us in Ukrainian Village. It's filled with so much Eastern European history you’ll be reconsidering your stance on embroidery.

A quick trip north and you'll hit the Chicago History Museum in Lincoln Park. It's where you go when you want to impress your out-of-town friends with random facts about the Great Chicago Fire or the World's Columbian Exposition.

There’s also Wicker Park's Chopin Theatre. While not technically a museum, this historic venue is a living, breathing artifact of Chicago's arts scene. It’s also close enough that you can pretend it's in East Village after a few Polish beers.

Parks in East Village

Need a breather from the urban hustle? East Village has you covered with some fantastic green spaces. Commercial Park is our grassy stomping grounds and although it's not huge, it packs a punch with its well-maintained baseball diamond, tennis courts, and a playground that's always buzzing with kids. On summer evenings, you'll find locals sprawled out on the grass, having picnics or just soaking up the sun. For a more secluded vibe, there's a hidden pocket park Hanore Palmer tucked away between some old Victorian houses. It’s perfect for reading a book or having a quiet moment of reflection.

Events in East Village

East Village has plenty of events to keep your calendar packed year-round. Summer's when things really heat up, kicking off with the Do Division Street Fest in June. There’s live music on multiple stages, local artisans hawking their wares, and enough street food to put you in a delicious food coma. It's like the whole neighborhood turns into one big block party.

Come fall, there’s the East Village Food & Art Walk. Local restaurants set up stands along Division Street, serving up their best bites while artists showcase their work. It's a feast for your stomach and your eyes.

Winter doesn't slow us down either. The holiday season brings the East Village Christkindlmarket, a cozy German-style market where you can sip mulled wine and shop for unique gifts while pretending you're in a quaint European village.

There’s also the quarterly East Village Art Walk. Galleries stay open late, local artists open their studios, and there's always a surprise pop-up exhibition or two. And let's not forget about the smaller events happening all the time. Trivia nights at the local pubs, poetry slams at the indie bookstore, and impromptu concerts in the park. Keep an eye on the community board at the coffee shop, as there's always something new popping up.

Real Estate In East Village

Overview of the Real Estate Market in East Village

Real estate in East Village is a hot market, with properties often snapped up faster than you can say "exposed brick." The area's popularity among young professionals and families has driven steady growth over the past decade. You'll find a mix of historic houses, condos fo rent, and everything in between. The charm of vintage walkups sits alongside sleek new developments, offering something for every taste and budget.

Rental Rates in East Village

Renting in East Village isn't cheap, but you get what you pay for in terms of location and amenities. Expect to shell out around $1,600 - $2,300 for a studio, $1,800 - $2,800 for a one-bedroom apartment, and $2,000 to $3,300 for a two-bedroom, depending on the building's age and amenities. If you need more space, coveted three-bedroom apartments range from $3,500 - $4,300. Luxury apartments in new buildings can push north of $4,000, but these come packed with perks.

The best thing to do before you begin your search is to run your income through our Rent Calculator and read up on the Expected Costs to Rent an Apartment in Chicago. These will help you dial in what you can afford, saving you time and energy in the long run.

Popular Housing Styles in East Village

East Village is an architectural playground, blending historic charm with modern sensibilities. This variety contributes significantly to the neighborhood's character and appeal and gives renters plenty to look at when apartment hunting.

• Vintage Walkups: These are found all over East Village. Typically three to four stories high, these brick buildings often have bay windows and intricate detailing. Inside, you'll find spacious apartments with hardwood floors, high ceilings, and sometimes original architectural charm like crown molding or built-in cabinets.
• New Construction: In recent years, East Village has seen an influx of modern developments. These buildings come with amenities like rooftop decks, fitness centers, and in-unit laundry. Their sleek designs provide a striking contrast to the neighborhood's older structures and can have you living like royalty.
• Single-Family Homes: For those seeking more space, East Village provides a selection of historic single-family homes. Victorian-era houses are particularly noteworthy, with their ornate facades, wrap-around porches, and detailed woodwork. These properties often come with small yards, a rarity in urban Chicago.
• Converted Lofts: Some of East Village's former industrial spaces have been transformed into trendy residential lofts. These apartments often feature open floor plans, exposed brick walls, and large windows, appealing to those who appreciate industrial-chic aesthetics and love throwing a brag-worthy dinner party.

Whatever your style, be it cozy garden apartments or penthouse suites, East Village has a spot just waiting for your moving truck. Just be prepared to act fast, as the best places don't stay on the market long in this sought-after neighborhood.

Popular Apartment Buildings in East Village 

• Luxe on Chicago Apartments
• 1819 Lofts
• 1952 West Ohio Apartments
• 1952 West Erie Apartments

Schools and Higher Learning Institutions In East Village

Public, Private, and Charter School Options 

East Village might be small, but when it comes to education, we're part of a bigger, wilder Chicago tapestry. The truth is, our tiny slice of the city doesn't have a school to call its very own. But don't panic! We're surrounded by options that'll make your kid's brain grow three sizes.

Just a schoolbooks throw away, there’s Columbus Elementary. It's technically outside our borders, but close enough that you can smell the pencil shavings from Division Street. This school is a melting pot of Mini-Chicagoans, perfect for kids who want a real-world crash course in diversity alongside their ABCs.

For the bigger kids, Wells Community Academy High School is where we send our angsty youngin’s. It's in West Town, but plenty of East Village teens brave the treacherous two-block journey every day. Wells has been upping its game lately, with programs that'll have your kid quoting Shakespeare and cracking codes before you know it.

Now, if you're feeling fancy (or holy), St. Helen School in Ukrainian Village is just a short strut away. It's been churning out well-behaved brainiacs for over a century. Just be prepared for your kid to come home with some strong opinions on pierogies.

Here's the kicker about Chicago schools - boundaries are more like suggestions. Your little Einstein might end up anywhere from Logan Square to Lincoln Park. It's like educational roulette, but with better odds

University, College, and Other Higher Learning Institution Options

While East Village isn't crawling with college students, we're in the orbit of some serious brain power. UIC is just a swift ride on the Blue Line and as a research powerhouse, you'll find everything from future doctors to aspiring filmmakers hitting the books.

If you’ve got a thing for skylines and circuit boards, the Illinois Institute of Technology, about 15 minutes south, is where architecture meets cutting-edge tech. It's like Hogwarts for the hard hat crowd.

DePaul's Loop Campus is within easy reach, too. Whether you're aiming for an MBA or dreaming of Broadway, they've got you covered.

For the artsy folks, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago is our neighbor to the east. Fair warning: hanging out near there might inspire you to quit your day job and become a sculptor.

Need to level up your skills? City Colleges of Chicago has campuses scattered around like Chicago-style hot dog stands. Malcolm X College is particularly good if you're into health sciences.

Fortunately, you don't need to be a student to tap into this intellectual goldmine. These schools are always hosting events, from mind-bending lectures to art shows that'll have you questioning reality. Renting an apartment in East Village means there's always something nearby to feed your brain.

Ready to Make East Village Your Home? 

As we've explored, East Village offers a unique blend of Chicago's past and present. It's a neighborhood where history whispers from century-old buildings while the buzz of modern city life hums along tree-lined streets.

From the eclectic shops on Division Street to the delicious restaurants, from peaceful pocket parks to lively community events, East Village invites you to become part of its story. Here, you're not just finding an apartment; you're joining a community that values both its roots and its evolving identity. It's a place where you can enjoy a unique Chicago experience, surrounded by the color and character that make this neighborhood truly special.

If you're excited about the prospect of calling this charming neighborhood home, why wait? Start your East Village apartment hunt today! Browse our extensive listings of available rentals, read up on our Renter Resources, and have fun window shopping for your future home!

History In East Village 

East Village's story is etched into its brick walls and winding streets. This neighborhood, now known for its trendy bars and art galleries, has roots that stretch back to the 1800s.

German and Scandinavian immigrants were the first to claim this patch of Chicago as their own. They brought with them their colorful cultures and a work ethic that transformed East Village into a bustling industrial zone. As the 20th century dawned, Polish families began to settle here, adding their own flavor to the mix. They built ornate churches that still stand today, architectural reminders of a devout community. The aroma of pierogi and kielbasa began to mingle with the existing scents of the neighborhood and the comradery was thick.

Unfortunately, the post-war years weren't kind to East Village. Like many urban areas, it faced decline as residents fled to the suburbs. Factories closed, storefronts emptied, and the once-vibrant streets grew quiet. But the 1980s brought an unexpected twist. Artists, drawn by low rents and vast spaces, began to trickle in. They set up studios in abandoned warehouses and breathed new life into forgotten buildings. This creative invasion sparked a renaissance that continues to shape East Village today.

The neighborhood's revival didn't erase its past, though. Instead, it created a unique blend of old and new. A 19th-century workers' cottage might now house a tech startup. A former Polish social club could be a craft cocktail bar. It's this juxtaposition that gives East Village its distinctive character. In recent years, young professionals and families have joined the mix, drawn by the area's eclectic charm and proximity to downtown. Yet, unlike some gentrified neighborhoods, East Village has managed to retain much of its working-class spirit and ethnic heritage.

View All East Village History