Don’t let its literal name fool you! North Center is a charming urban neighborhood, offering quiet residential streets tucked away from the city's hustle, with easy access to great shopping and restaurants along Lincoln Avenue and in sub-neighborhood Roscoe Village.

 Initially a part of the city’s industrial expansion – an area that was once home to many factories and brickyards, North Center stretches from Montrose Avenue to Addison and goes as far east as Ravenswood Avenue, butting up to the Chicago River on its west end. Comprised mainly of single-family homes dating to the early 20th century, there is also a smattering of two-flats, rehab condos, and traditional townhouses to be had. More grown-up than neighboring Lakeview, North Center is a great place to graduate to home ownership or start a family.

Public Amenities, Services, Civic Organizations

One look at the North Center's Chamber of Commerce website, and you can see that this is a community that tempers hipness with a sense of sophistication. Residents can enjoy a summer concert in the square, a little league game in Hamlin Park, or stock up on fresh produce at the North Center Farmers Market (runs Saturdays, June – October). A hungry mob descends annually on the intersection of Lincoln and Irving Park Avenues for Ribfest Chicago, which has become one of Chicago’s most steadfast street festivals.

North Center boasts a wide variety of desirable real estate options that range from stately Victorians and traditional homes with welcoming front porches to modern, loft-style condos and stone walk-ups. Sidewalks and treed lawns are well maintained, and most blocks have a great deal of curb appeal. In contrast to much of Chicago, North Center has easy street parking, as well as many properties with private garages.