Boystown

By Ebonie Beaco – Mortgage Loan Originator, Home Loans Network (NMLS #2389954)**

Boystown — officially known as Northalsted — sits within Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood and remains one of the most vibrant, culturally significant, and sought-after communities in the city. Recognized as the first officially designated LGBTQ+ neighborhood in the United States, Northalsted blends rich history, pride, nightlife, walkability, and stylish urban living.

As a mortgage expert serving clients across 60657, I work with homebuyers, first-time owners, investors, and renters who are drawn to Northalsted for its energy, convenience, transit access, and long-term real estate strength. This report brings together everything you need to know — from the housing market and rental trends to lifestyle, demographics, and financial insights.

A Neighborhood Known for Pride, Inclusivity, and Lifestyle

Northalsted is one of Chicago’s most iconic cultural districts. It’s defined by:

• The famous rainbow pylons and Legacy Walk along North Halsted
• Decades of LGBTQ+ activism, celebrations, and community building
• Independent shops, cafés, bars, theaters, and restaurants
• A strong sense of belonging and acceptance for all
• A bustling social scene balanced by peaceful residential side streets

Though widely known for its nightlife, the neighborhood offers far more — daytime cafés, fitness studios, boutiques, salons, community events, and immediate access to parks and the lakefront. It’s a place where people move for the lifestyle and stay because it feels like home.

Who Lives in Boystown / Northalsted

The neighborhood attracts a mix of:

• Young professionals
• LGBTQ+ individuals and allies
• Creative professionals, artists, and performers
• Long-time residents who value the neighborhood’s identity
• Renters and buyers seeking convenience and amenities
• People who want to live near the lake, transit, and the city’s best entertainment

Residents tend to be highly engaged in local events, community organizations, and neighborhood businesses. Lakeview as a whole is known for its walkability, dense population, educated workforce, and higher-than-average household incomes. Northalsted reflects these trends, with many residents working in corporate, creative, medical, and tech industries.

Real Estate Overview: What Buyers Will Find in Northalsted (60657)

Boystown / Northalsted offers a highly desirable mix of housing styles, including:

Modern Condos & Renovated Units

Condos dominate the local real estate landscape, from sleek modern buildings to beautifully updated vintage conversions.

Typical pricing ranges:

• 1-bedroom condos: ~$250K–$375K+
• 2-bedroom condos: ~$375K–$550K+ (depending on finish & location)
• 3-bedroom or luxury condos: $550K–$800K+

Modern loft-style units, boutique buildings, and condos with private outdoor space command premium pricing.

Vintage-Style Walk-Ups & Courtyard Buildings

Lakeview is known for its classic Chicago-style brick buildings and charming tree-lined streets.

• These homes offer character, natural light, hardwood floors, and unique layouts.
• Many attract first-time buyers seeking a stylish home with strong long-term value.

Single-Family Homes & Townhomes

Less common but highly desirable, single-family homes in 60657 are often priced well into the upper six-figures or over $1M, reflecting the neighborhood’s demand and limited supply.

Townhomes offer an alternative for buyers seeking more space than a condo without the full price of a single-family home.

Rental Market: Strong, Active & Consistent

Boystown / Northalsted is one of Chicago’s top rental destinations due to its nightlife, restaurants, community identity, and lakefront proximity.

Average rent estimates:

• Studios: ~$1,300–$1,600+
• 1-bedrooms: ~$1,800–$2,300+
• 2-bedrooms: ~$2,500–$3,200+
• 3-bedrooms: ~$3,300–$4,500+ depending on size & finish

Renters include professionals working downtown, medical staff commuting to nearby hospitals, students, and long-term residents who love the location. High demand and low vacancy benefit real estate investors and landlords.

Investment Outlook: Why Northalsted Is a Strong Choice

Northalsted consistently performs as one of Chicago’s most stable and attractive urban real estate markets.

1. Strong Rental Demand

The social scene, nightlife, restaurants, lakefront access, and walkability ensure that well-maintained units rent quickly.

2. High Appreciation Potential

Limited inventory combined with neighborhood desirability helps support long-term property values.

3. Ideal for Condo Investors

Smaller buildings and vintage walk-ups often deliver strong rent-to-price ratios.

4. Excellent for House Hackers

60657 has an assortment of 2–4 flats and condo buildings with flexible rental policies, making it ideal for owner-occupants who want supplemental rental income.

5. Demographic Strength

Educated, professional, and high-income residents often remain in the area for years — supporting property stability.

Investors often target updated units, lower-HOA buildings, or multi-unit properties for optimal returns.

Lifestyle: Why People Choose Northalsted

Northalsted is not just a place to live — it’s a lifestyle. Residents enjoy:

• A vibrant nightlife with bars, lounges, clubs, and performance venues
• Independent businesses that uplift local creators and entrepreneurs
• Quick access to Lake Michigan, Belmont Harbor, and running/bike trails
• Year-round events like Pride celebrations, markets, and festivals
• Theater, live music, and comedy throughout Lakeview
• Walkability to grocery stores, gyms, boutiques, restaurants, and CTA trains

The neighborhood’s energy, inclusivity, and accessibility make it attractive for both first-time buyers and long-term locals.

Financial Snapshot at a Glance

• Condos: ~$250K–$550K+
• Luxury & 3-bed condos: $550K–$800K+
• Townhomes & single-family homes: Upper $700Ks–$1M+
• Average rent: ~$1,300–$4,000+ depending on unit size
• Housing stock: Condos, walk-ups, vintage buildings, lofts, townhomes
• Resident profile: Diverse, professional, active, community-focused

For buyers and investors, Northalsted combines cultural appeal, rental strength, and strong long-term value.

Ready to Buy or Invest in Boystown / Northalsted? Let’s Run Your Numbers Together.

If you're considering buying a home, condo, or investment property in Northalsted (60657), I can walk you through the right loan programs, down payment options, monthly payment breakdowns, and house-hacking opportunities.

Contact Your Local Mortgage Expert:

Ebonie Beaco – NMLS #2389954
Home Loans Network – Powered by Morty
📞 312-392-0664
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Let’s explore your goals, compare mortgage options, and position you to purchase confidently in one of Chicago’s most colorful, historic, and thriving neighborhoods.