The widespread hodgepodge of neighborhoods in Chicago has some big, recognizable names: Wrigleyville, Pilsen, Wicker Park, and Logan Square (to name just a few). But, we aren’t here to talk about those neighborhoods. Instead, we’re taking a look at some of the unsung communities in the city. Whether they’re tucked inside a larger neighborhood or just lacking name recognition, these six neighborhoods are some of Chicago’s most beautiful but underrated spots.

East Village

Homes in East Village

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When you hear “East Village” your mind probably jumps to Manhattan first, but it’s actually the name of a Chicago neighborhood as well. Chicago’s East Village is inside the bounds of the larger neighborhood West Town. You’ll find streets lined with both attached homes and single-family homes in the largely residential neighborhood. The median home price is $529,600.

Although a quieter spot in the city, East Village still has plenty of places to eat and things to do. You can grab a scoop to-go at Black Dog Gelato (just remember to bring cash). Or sip on botanical drinks at Forbidden Root Restaurant and Brewery. The neighborhood is also home to Commercial Club Playground Park. And if you’re looking for more entertainment, Wicker Park and Ukrainian Village are right next door. 

Hollywood Park

Homes in Hollywood Park

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Hollywood Park is within the borders of North Park and sits just north of Albany Park and Lincoln Square. Hollywood Park is an island of greenspace on the North Side with 46 acres of nature preserves along the Chicago River. Most homes in the neighborhood are attached, but you can find single-family homes as well. The picturesque community is one of the city’s more affordable spots with a median sale price of $256,324. 

The neighborhood’s North Park Village Nature Center Park has a forest, wetland, prairie, and oak savanna—a surprising combination for a city. Plus, the park hosts the Maple Syrup Festival each year.

Little Village

Homes in Little Village

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Little Village is a part of the larger South Side neighborhood South Lawndale. While the construction of new condos has been on the rise in recent years, the neighborhood still has a large collection of single-family homes with lawns. The median sale price is $135,000—well below what you’ll find in many other Chicago neighborhoods. 

The neighborhood is easily recognizable with a large “Bienvenidos a Little Village" sign. Once in the neighborhood, you’ll find a delightful collection of Mexican restaurants on and near 26th Street. Look for Taqueria Los Comales, Mi Tierra en la Villita, Nuevo Leon, and Tacquerias Atotonilco. Little Village also has its own music, culture, and arts festival: Villapalooza.

Mayfair

Row of bungalow homes in Chicago photo courtesy of David Wilson

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Mayfair and North Mayfair are part of Albany Park, which is known for its diverse collection of restaurants. Mayfair, just off the CTA Blue Line’s Montrose stop, is a quieter place with single-family homes, condos, and townhomes. The median sale price for homes in the neighborhood is $346,000.

While much of the neighborhood is residential, Mayfair is bounded by Montrose Avenue, Pulaski Road, and Lawrence Avenue (I-94 is the western boundary of the neighborhood). Plus, Elston Avenue cuts through the center of Mayfair. On those busier strips, you’ll find places like Old Irving Brewing Co., Afghan Kabob, and a Peruvian seafood restaurant, Ay Ay Picante. 

New City

Homes in Back of the Yards

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New City is a lesser known Chicago neighborhood that contains two smaller sub-neighborhoods: Canaryville and Back of the Yards. The neighborhood sprung up in the old location of the Union Stock Yards. Today, you’ll find a median home sale price of $254,750 in Canaryville and $137,000 in Back of the Yards. Ranch-style homes and bungalows prevail in New City, though you’ll find attached homes as well.

New City is home to a number of parks, including Cornell Square Park, Davis Square Park, and Sherman Park.

Graceland West

Brick home in Chicago

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Lakeview is a sprawling neighborhood with more than a few sub-neighborhoods. Wrigleyville and Boystown usually get most of the attention, but Lakeview is also home to Graceland West. A quieter part of Lakeview, this neighborhood is set a little further back from the lake and shares its name with the neighboring Graceland Cemetery. Condos and attached homes have proliferated in the neighborhood, but you can still find single-family homes for sale. The median sale price for a home in Graceland West is $401,250. 

Graceland Cemetery and Arboretum offer an idyllic view in this neighborhood. The landscaping and architecture make it a beautiful spot to walk through.