Buena Park

Buena Park

Chicago, Illinois Homes for Sale

About Buena Park

Buena Park might just be Uptown's best-kept secret. The north side neighborhood differentiates itself from the neighborhood under which it's nested thanks to a row of historic homes that represent the city's best stretch of Prairie-style architecture, known to building buffs as the Hutchinson Street Historic District. Since that's the draw of Buena Park, you can probably imagine that this sleepy neighborhood is a bit of a getaway from the bustle of downtown Chicago and it's residents are thankful for that.

Quick Facts

Current Prices: $80,000 to $2,650,000

Closed Prices: $85,000 to $2,480,000

Median Sale Price: $267,000

Average $ per sq ft: $230

Association Fee Ranges: $0, $100 to $1492/mo

Type: Attached Home (Condo, Townhouse, Loft, etc.), Single-Family Home

Age: 1894 to 2014

Sq. Ft.: 500 to 8000 Sq. Ft.

Bedrooms: 0 to 5 Bedrooms

Bathrooms: 1 to 7 Bathrooms

Around Buena Park

Due to its location along the lake, transportation can be a bit limited in Buena Park. The Sheridan 'L' station lies along the border of the neighborhood and services the Red, Purple, and Brown Lines. You can also catch the Broadway bus north towards the Edgewater neighborhood. Even though transportation can be limited, nothing beats a nice walk among the trees and historic homes of the neighborhood. If you're driving, Lake Shore Drive is as scenic as it gets (even if you're stuck at the Montrose off-ramp) and parking is relatively available on the residential streets.

Buena Park's median home price is similar to that of northern neighborhoods like Uptown and Edgewater. Due to the historical nature of the neighborhood, single-family homes can be a bit pricier and harder to come by. If it's these homes you're after, make sure to keep a close eye on inventory because once (if ever) they hit the market, they don't last long. Towards the lake, there is a much more reasonable selection of mid-rise condos that offer more modern home features at an affordable price--not to mention most buildings will give you a decent view.

Although we mentioned the Hutchinson Street Historic District already, you probably won't find any of its real estate up for grabs unless you're very lucky. You might also have trouble finding a traditional single-family home here. The neighborhood is mostly made up of residential condo and apartment buildings that, while spacious, don't offer the lot and unattached walls that some buyers seek.

Buena Park's borders are delineated by some of Chicago's most important streets: Irving Park Road, Montrose Avenue, and Lake Shore Drive, as well as the Graceland Cemetery on its west side. That means that you'll find plenty of walk-in cafes, restaurants, and sit-down eateries within this area despite its small size. You might also want to check out Broadway Avenue, where there are tons of restaurants too.

Buena Park has an interesting seat just above the non-stop party that is Wrigleyville. Therefore, the neighborhood draws lots of young people who still like to go out, but prefer not to live in the thick of things. It's also a great place for young Chicago families who want to stay in the city while also finding a bit more serenity within the metropolis.

When the Cubs are playing, the entire north side seems to pause and watch. Considering how close Buena Park is to Wrigley Field -- it's about a 10-minute walk from the Irving Park border of the neighborhood -- you'll feel the hype if there's a game going. Otherwise, expect to see revelers at the bars on Sheridan and Irving Park.

Overhanging trees and curvy, house-lined streets mean that Buena Park boasts the perfect backdrop for a Sunday stroll. Whether you're pushing a stroller or pulling a curious pup, you'll find quiet streets to match an introspective or relaxed mood. Of course, you might just want to cheer for the Bears, drink a 312, and watch the game; you can pop into one of many sports bars to make that vision a reality.

Locals Love

  • Close to many major bus routes, including the Lake Shore Drive express buses to downtown
  • Closeness to Wrigley Field
  • Easy access to CTA Red Line
  • Quiet, residential field despite convenient location
  • Traditional, beautiful architecture

Locals Don't Love

  • CTA crowdedness when events take place at Wrigley Field
  • Fewer nightlife options than in other neighborhoods
  • Lack of single-family homes amongst real estate options

Neighborhood Reviews

2 Reviews
5.0

Hidden Gem in Lakeview!

Ashley W
One of my favorite neighborhoods to just walk around and look at the homes and buildings. This is a very historical neighborhood that has a lot to offer. As a single woman, I feel very safe at night walking home from the Sheridan stop. There are always young people out at night near Holiday Club (a fun place to go if you like to dance!) and it's become a place to be if you want to be close to the action of Wrigleyville without the noise when you just want some peace and quiet.

Was lucky to find it!

Jason L
My wife and I moved to Chicago almost two years ago, and we picked a home in Buena Park almost by accident. But once we moved and got to know it, we have truly come to love the neighborhood. It is beautiful, quiet, and easily accessible to the rest of the city.
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