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

Lakeview is one of Chicago’s most iconic, vibrant, and in-demand North Side neighborhoods — a place where lakefront living, nightlife, historic architecture, and a strong residential core converge. Covering 60657 and 60613, Lakeview offers everything: charming residential pockets, peaceful tree-lined blocks, bustling commercial corridors, and direct access to Lake Michigan. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or renter transitioning into homeownership, Lakeview provides one of the most balanced urban lifestyles in the entire city.

As a mortgage expert serving clients across these ZIP codes, I created this complete guide to help you understand Lakeview’s housing market, lifestyle, investment potential, rental trends, and what makes it such a powerful neighborhood for long-term real estate value.

A Neighborhood Defined by Lakefront Energy, Architecture & Urban Vitality

Lakeview offers a seamless blend of big-city excitement and comfortable residential living. It includes several popular sub-neighborhoods — such as Boystown/Northalsted, Wrigleyville, West Lakeview, and East Lakeview — each with its own charm.

Key lifestyle features that make Lakeview stand out:

• Miles of Lakefront Trail access
• Belmont Harbor, Montrose Harbor & local beaches
• Historic homes and classic Chicago architecture
• Nightlife, theaters, music venues & entertainment
• Boutiques, cafés, and locally owned shops
• Wrigley Field — anchoring one of Chicago’s most famous entertainment districts
• Excellent transit access via Red, Brown, and Purple Lines

Lakeview is equally loved by buyers, renters, walkers, cyclists, and anyone who values amenities at their doorstep.

Who Lives in Lakeview

Lakeview attracts a highly diverse group of residents who are drawn to the balance of activity, convenience, and residential charm:

• Young professionals
• First-time buyers
• Families seeking walkable living
• Long-term residents and homeowners
• Renters transitioning to ownership
• Medical, tech, business, and creative professionals
• People who want lakefront recreation and city energy

Households here tend to be well-educated, professionally employed, and engaged in local community life. Lakeview’s mix of housing sizes and styles also attracts singles, couples, and families.

Real Estate Overview: What Buyers Will Find in Lakeview

One of the reasons Lakeview remains one of Chicago’s most desirable neighborhoods is its variety of housing options — from vintage walk-ups and modern condos to charming single-family homes tucked into quiet pockets.

Condominiums

Condos dominate the market in 60657 and 60613, offering choices for every budget and lifestyle.

Typical pricing:

• 1-bedroom: ~$225K–$350K+
• 2-bedroom: ~$350K–$550K+
• 3-bedroom: ~$550K–$800K+
• Luxury or newer construction units: $800K–$1M+

Buyers can find:

• Vintage walk-up condos
• Mid-rise buildings
• High-rise units with lake views
• Boutique new-construction buildings
• Mixed-use buildings with modern amenities

HOA fees vary significantly depending on building type, age, and services.

Single-Family Homes

While less common than condos, single-family homes in Lakeview are extremely desirable.

• Classic Chicago greystones
• Updated modern houses
• Vintage Victorian and worker cottages
• Fully renovated 3- and 4-bedroom homes

Pricing typically begins in the high six figures and can extend into the $1M-$2M+ range, especially in East Lakeview and near parks/lakefront.

Two- to Four-Flat Buildings

Investors and house hackers gravitate toward these buildings because they offer:

• Multi-unit rental income
• Owner-occupant loan opportunities
• Strong, steady demand
• Desirable locations near transit & nightlife

Typical price range: $600Ks–$1.2M+, depending on location and renovation level.

Rental Market: High Demand, High Energy & Consistent Returns

Lakeview is one of Chicago’s strongest rental markets thanks to its location, lake access, transit, entertainment, and lifestyle appeal.

Approximate rents:

• Studios: ~$1,350–$1,650+
• 1-bedrooms: ~$1,800–$2,400+
• 2-bedrooms: ~$2,500–$3,300+
• 3-bedrooms: ~$3,300–$4,800+

Lakefront and new construction rentals command premium pricing.

Renters include professionals, medical staff, hospitality workers, tech employees, students, and long-term locals who prefer renting in Lakeview over buying in pricier neighborhoods.

Investment Outlook: One of Chicago’s Most Reliable Long-Term Markets

Lakeview is consistently among the top-performing neighborhoods for investors and house hackers because:

1. Extremely Strong Renter Demand

Units rent quickly due to proximity to:

• Transit
• Lakefront
• Wrigley Field
• Dining & nightlife
• Shopping corridors

2. High Appreciation Potential

Lakeview’s lakefront access and entertainment hubs drive long-term value.

3. Great for House Hackers

Two- to four-flats and condo buildings with flexible rental policies make owner-occupant investments highly feasible.

4. Wide Variety of Rental Units

From studio apartments to large vintage flats, the rental pool is diverse.

5. Low Vacancy Rates

Lakeview rarely suffers from weak occupancy — a huge plus for landlords.

For investors, I often run full rent roll analyses, DSCR comparisons, and long-term cash flow modeling to identify the best financing structures.

Lifestyle: What It’s Like to Live in Lakeview

Life in Lakeview is active, exciting, and convenient. Residents enjoy:

• Belmont Harbor and the lakefront path for jogging, biking, boating & relaxing
• Restaurants and cafés that showcase cuisines from around the world
• Theaters & performance venues like the Music Box Theatre
• Boutiques, gyms, wine bars, bookstores & small businesses
• Wrigleyville entertainment & Cubs games
• Walkability on streets with historic architecture and mature trees
• A lively but livable atmosphere, with nightlife balanced by quieter residential pockets

Lakeview offers a dynamic, city-centered lifestyle with a strong residential backbone.

Financial Snapshot at a Glance

• Condos: ~$225K–$800K+
• Single-family homes: ~$800K–$2M+
• Two- to four-flats: ~$600K–$1.2M+
• Average rents: ~$1,350–$4,800+
• Housing stock: Vintage condos, high-rises, greystones, multi-units, modern builds
• Resident profile: Young professionals, families, long-term homeowners, investors

Lakeview delivers versatility, strong demand, and exceptional lifestyle appeal — making it one of Chicago’s most consistent real estate performers.

Ready to Buy or Invest in Lakeview? Let’s Build Your Mortgage Strategy.

Whether you're looking to buy a condo near the lake, invest in a multi-unit in Wrigleyville, or purchase your first home in West Lakeview, I can guide you through:

• Low-down-payment options
• Conventional, FHA, and portfolio loan structures
• Condo review & HOA analysis
• Investment loan strategies
• Monthly payment breakdowns
• Pre-approval for competitive offers

Contact Your Local Mortgage Expert:

Ebonie Beaco – NMLS #2389954
Home Loans Network – Powered by Morty
📞 312-392-0664

Let’s walk through your numbers, explore your best financing options, and position you to buy confidently in one of Chicago’s most vibrant and timeless neighborhoods.