From the many comments, it seemed like life up north in Lincoln Square, Andersonville, Edgewater is great, people rave about it up there, and then you have the loyal people further south on the Blue line in neighborhood like Wicker Park, Bucktown, and Logan Square. We looked in both areas but in the end, we couldn’t deny how much we loved the more urban, walkable vibe in neighborhoods off the Blue Line. There seemed to be more restaurants and street life, and since we don’t have a car this was super appealing to us.

Anyway, we lucked out with a cute place on the border of Wicker Park and Bucktown for a great price. So we’re happy, and thanks everyone for the help. Chicagoans, I’ll see you around!

Within walking distance of my home there is Little Italy, Pilsen (a Mexican neighborhood, 18th street is becoming one of the best food streets in the city), Chinatown (long walk fine bike ride) Greektown, a college neighborhood (on Halsted), the loop, the meat and fish wholesale district, restaurant supply district, and an area known as “restaurant row” (Randolph Street.) There is a Whole Foods, Jewel and Binny’s all within walking distance, not to mention the ethnic gorcery stores and Maxwell Street market. Blue line, Pink line and plenty of bus routes.

Additionally I am 2.5 miles from the lake, and with all the college students apartments are plentiful and not too expensive.

If you haven’t cheked it out yet, I know you are going to LOVE
http://lthforum.com/bb/index.php
The greatest congregation of foodies in Chicago ever.
You also might wat to use their GNR guide to see what neighborhood you might like.

Also, if you end up on the northside, Rogers Park fruit market is a great (and sometimes superior) alternative to Stanleys. In Hyde Park, you also have hyde park produce which is delish.