Lincoln Square

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

Lincoln Square is one of Chicago’s most charming, community-driven, and architecturally rich North Side neighborhoods. Known for its European-style village atmosphere, walkable commercial corridors, historic homes, and strong cultural identity, Lincoln Square blends modern urban living with old-world charm.

From its iconic Giddings Plaza to quiet tree-lined residential streets, Lincoln Square remains one of 60625’s most desirable places to live — attracting homebuyers seeking stability, amenities, and long-term value.

As a mortgage expert serving clients throughout the North Side, I created this full neighborhood breakdown to help buyers and investors understand what makes Lincoln Square an outstanding real estate market.

A Neighborhood Defined by Culture, Community & Classic Chicago Character

Lincoln Square has a warm, small-town feel in the middle of the city. Its roots reflect the neighborhood’s German immigrant heritage, still visible today in restaurants, bakeries, architecture, and cultural events.

Signature features of the area include:

• Giddings Plaza — a European-inspired pedestrian square
• Locally owned shops, cafés, boutiques & bookstores
• Historic architecture & vintage charm
• Tree-lined boulevards and quiet residential blocks
• Easy access to transit (Brown Line, Metra, buses)
• Parks, playgrounds & the North Branch Trail nearby
• Cozy taverns, breweries & neighborhood eateries

Lincoln Square’s balance of community, culture, and convenience makes it one of the most livable neighborhoods on Chicago’s North Side.

Who Lives in Lincoln Square

Lincoln Square attracts a wide and diverse mix of residents, including:

• Families seeking walkability, parks, and top-rated schools
• First-time buyers who want a strong community feel
• Long-time homeowners committed to preserving neighborhood charm
• Professionals working downtown or in North Side business districts
• Renters transitioning into ownership
• Creative professionals, entrepreneurs & remote workers

Residents tend to be highly engaged with neighborhood events, local businesses, farmers markets, festivals, and seasonal activities that reinforce the area’s strong community identity.

Real Estate Overview: What Buyers Will Find in Lincoln Square (60625)

Lincoln Square offers one of the city’s most appealing and stable mixes of housing — from condos and walk-ups to beautifully restored single-family homes and classic multi-units.

Condos & Walk-Ups

Condos in Lincoln Square appeal to first-time buyers, young professionals, and downsizers.

Typical pricing:

• 1-bedroom condos: ~$220K–$325K+
• 2-bedroom condos: ~$300K–$450K+
• 3-bedroom condos: ~$450K–$600K+
• New construction or luxury units: can exceed $700K–$1M+

Most condos sit in:

• Vintage courtyard buildings
• Brick walk-up conversions
• Small boutique condo buildings
• Newer construction mid-rise developments

HOA fees vary but tend to be moderate in smaller, vintage buildings.

Single-Family Homes

Lincoln Square’s single-family homes are highly desirable and often sell quickly due to limited supply.

Buyers will find:

• Chicago bungalows
• Brick and stone two-story homes
• Renovated vintage houses
• Modernized single-family rebuilds
• Frame cottages and expanded Victorian-style homes

Pricing generally ranges from:

• $650K–$1.2M+ depending on size, finish level, and location
• Fully renovated or new-construction homes can exceed $1.5M+

These homes attract families and long-term residents who value space, privacy, and strong neighborhood amenities.

Two- to Four-Flats

Lincoln Square is rich in classic Chicago multi-unit buildings — a dream for both investors and house hackers.

Benefits include:

• Rental income to offset mortgage payments
• Long-term tenant stability
• Renovation and value-add potential
• Lower vacancy rates due to strong demand

Pricing generally starts in the $600Ks and ranges upward depending on size, location, and rehab level.

Rental Market: Stable, High-Demand & Family-Friendly

Lincoln Square's rental market is consistently strong thanks to:

• Walkability
• Transit access
• Larger floor plans
• Safe and community-oriented feel

Approximate rents:

• 1-bedrooms: ~$1,600–$1,900+
• 2-bedrooms: ~$2,000–$2,600+
• 3-bedrooms: ~$2,700–$3,500+
• Single-family rentals: $3,500–$5,500+ depending on size

Renters often stay long-term, especially families and professionals who enjoy the area’s schools, parks, and community services.

Investment Outlook: Highly Stable & Long-Term Growth

Lincoln Square is a highly reliable investment market, offering:

1. Long-Term Appreciation

Values remain strong due to charm, demand, and walkability.

2. Multi-Unit Opportunities

Classic two- and three-flats produce dependable rental income.

3. Low Inventory, High Desirability

Homes often sell quickly, especially near major corridors or parks.

4. Value-Add Potential

Vintage buildings with solid structure offer upgrade opportunities.

5. Excellent House Hacking

Live in one unit, rent the others, and enjoy an affordable monthly outcome — ideal for first-time buyers.

Lifestyle: What It’s Like to Live in Lincoln Square

Lincoln Square residents enjoy a high quality of life built around:

• Giddings Plaza outdoor gatherings & music performances
• Local cafés & bakeries, including artisan and European-style shops
• Family-friendly parks & playgrounds
• Chicago River trails and bike paths
• Seasonal festivals & farmers markets
• Easy access to Brown Line CTA & Metra
• Boutiques, toy stores, butcher shops & beautiful local markets
• Calm residential living minutes from lively main streets

It’s a perfect environment for those who value charm, convenience, and culture.

Financial Snapshot at a Glance

• Condos: ~$220K–$600K+
• Single-family homes: ~$650K–$1.5M+
• Multi-units: ~$600K–$1.2M+
• Average rents: ~$1,600–$3,500+
• Housing stock: Vintage condos, bungalows, multi-units, frame homes
• Resident profile: Families, professionals, long-time homeowners, investors

Lincoln Square offers consistent value, strong demand, and exceptional quality of life — making it one of Chicago’s most desirable long-term markets.

Ready to Buy or Invest in Lincoln Square? Let's Build Your Mortgage Plan.

Whether you're aiming for a condo near Giddings Plaza, a family home on a tree-lined block, or a multi-unit property for rental income, I can help you explore your options and structure the best mortgage strategy.

Contact Your Local Mortgage Expert:

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

Let’s walk through your numbers, compare loan programs, and position you to buy confidently in one of Chicago’s most charming and community-focused neighborhoods.