East Side

Chicago, IL

East Side - Chicago, IL

Area Guide

Niche Reviews

3.5 (60 Reviews)

Bask in outdoor recreation near Lake Michigan

Lakeside • Affordable • Active • Historic • Welcoming • Diverse •

Located on the southeastern side of Chicago, East Side offers residents direct access to Lake Michigan and the state of Indiana. Outdoor recreation abounds in East Side, from the 200-acre Calumet Park nestled alongside Lake Michigan to the rich, wet woodland of the 241-acre Eggers Grove.

An assortment of red-brick apartment buildings and single-family homes provides East Side residents with a host of affordable rental options. Interstate 90 runs through the eastern portion of the neighborhood, allowing for quick commutes to downtown Chicago, located just 13 miles north of East Side. The vibrant nightlife of Horseshoe Hammond is also just a short drive from East Side.

Rent Trends

As of February 2025, the average apartment rent in East Side is $824 for one bedroom, and $887 for two bedrooms. Apartment rent in East Side has increased by 6.3% in the past year.

1 BR
590 sq ft

Average Sq Ft
$824/month

Average Rent

2 BR
603 sq ft

Average Sq Ft
$887/month

Average Rent

Transportation

Somewhat Walkable

out of 100 WalkScore® Rating

You might be able to get out and walk when living in this area. Some errands can be accomplished on foot, but for others you’ll need a car.

Some Transit

out of 100 TransitScore® Rating

You'll likely want a car when living in this area since it has few transit options.

Very Bikeable

out of 100 BikeScore® Rating

This area is very bikeable. You’ll find a variety of bike paths and lanes.

Reviews of East Side - Chicago, IL

Niche Reviews

3.5 60 Reviews

Current Resident

2 years ago•Niche Review

Great place to live and safe. Nice houses and gyms close by. Downtown is 25 min away in skyway. Housing is great and neighbors are nice. Reconnect living here.

Current Resident

2 years ago•Niche Review

Everything you need is here gyms, food, beach, and a community. Great for families and housing is well kept

Current Resident

5 years and 2 months ago•Niche Review

I have resided on the East side of Chicago my whole life and I am proud to be able to say that. It is a small community so everyone knows everyone, but it has grew to be slightly dangerous with all of the violence and gang activity occurring in Chicago neighborhoods. Nevertheless, the east side is known for its unique characteristics and ingrained history which I honor.

Current Resident

5 years and 7 months ago•Niche Review

I would love to see less violence, and more resources being provided for young people in order to motivate them to go to college.

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