Portage Park

Portage Park

Chicago, Illinois Homes for Sale

+1(888) 897-9225

About Portage Park

Portage Park had a fairly small population until the early 20th century, when the city's streetcar system was extended outward from the Downtown area. To the residents of Chicago's crowded tenements, Portage Park seemed like the perfect place to escape and take a breath of fresh air. Today, many Chicagoans still see this northwest neighborhood as a quiet refuge from the bustle of the city center.

Quick Facts

Current Prices: $229,500 to $789,000

Closed Prices: $110,000 to $780,000

Median Sale Price: $390,000

Average $ per sq ft: $235

Association Fee Ranges: $0 to $394/mo, $0

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

Age: 1892 to 2022

Sq. Ft.: 415 to 4368 Sq. Ft.

Bedrooms: 1 to 7 Bedrooms

Bathrooms: 1 to 4 Bathrooms

Around Portage Park

Photo in Portage Park
Photo in Portage Park
Photo in Portage Park
Photo in Portage Park

Most of Portage Park's four square miles is residential, giving prospective homebuyers plenty of choices. Bungalows and single-family homes make up a great majority of these residences, though you can find condominium buildings. Residents in the northeast corner of the neighborhood will be closer to public transit and the Kennedy Expressway, making for an easier commute to the Loop. Portage Park’s namesake park, which offers a variety of recreational amenities, can be found in the center of the neighborhood.

Photo in Portage Park
Photo in Portage Park

Portage Park's rich history inspires the eclectic culinary scene that this neighborhood boasts today. Along Irving Park Road alone, you'll find modern American restaurants, casual coffee shops, and traditional steakhouses. The popular BRGRBELLY got its start in Portage Park, and the original location is still serving up tasty burgers and beer. When you’re in the mood for tacos, several Mexican restaurants can be found in the neighborhood with traditional staples. Polish cuisine is also popular in the area, and Jolly Inn Restaurant’s buffet is certainly a highlight for those with a big appetite.

Photo in Portage Park
Photo in Portage Park

Portage Park’s history of Polish immigrants is still a big part of the area’s culture. The Polish American Association is based here, as are Polish businesses, the Polish Army Veterans Association, and a park named after the country's famed composer, Frederic Chopin. You'll probably notice pretty quickly that this Northwest Side neighborhood draws in homeowners looking for a relatively quiet lifestyle without losing access to the Loop.

Photo in Portage Park
Photo in Portage Park

Step back in time at The Portage Theater, where locals grab seats to watch international, indie, and classic films. The theater also hosts live music regularly, so keep an eye on their calendar. If you’re simply looking for a bar, Irving Park Road is lined with with all kinds of them. Slip into a small dive or grab the mic and get to belting out your favorite karaoke tune — you'll find it all along this strip.

Photo in Portage Park
Photo in Portage Park

The largest park on the city's Northwest Side sprawls within the limits of Portage Park — it also shares the neighborhood's name. It's been a Sunday destination for residents since its inception in 1913, acting as a center for the entire community to unwind and socialize. Amongst the foliage and walking trails, you'll also find a lap pool built in the 1970s that hosted the U.S. Olympic Team time trials. No need to race through it now, though, especially on a relaxing Sunday afternoon.

Locals Love

  • Single-Family Homes
  • Largest Park on the Northwest Side
  • Easy Access to Buses and Kennedy Expressway

Locals Don't Love

  • Poor Access to Trains
  • Lack of Nightlife
  • Lack of Housing Variety

Neighborhood Reviews

2 Reviews
5.0

Underrated, But Probably Not For Long

Brad M
An underrated Chicago neighborhood, there's great cafes, bookstores and restaurants, with new places popping up almost weekly. Rent is much cheaper than most of the rest of the city, but the lower cost of living doesn't mean less amenities as it would elsewhere. Easy access to the blue line, and keep an eye out for updates to the Six Corners intersection, it's currently beginning a massive restoration.

An Up-and-Coming Hidden Gem

Katrina W
I've lived in Portage Park my whole life and in the last few years it has grown tremendously. Ten years ago, there were many abandoned storefronts that are now filled with artisan coffee and tea shops, boutiques, and affordable restaurants. For a sports bar vibe, check out Sutherland's for daily drink and food specials and a great menu. Portage Grounds and Perkolator are two independent coffee shops in the area that provide delicious coffee and a cozy place to read or study. If you're a tea nerd, Tease tea shoppe has an incredible selection of interesting and delicious looseleaf tea. In 2017, plans for a new plaza and shopping center are set to open at six corners and a Binny's and a Culver's is going to be going into the old Lasalle Bank building. New bars and restaurants are also on the near future horizon. Located near the Irving Park Blueline and right off of Milwaukee, Portage Park is also very close to hot neighborhoods such as Logan Square and Avondale and is less than a five minute drive from the Kennedy expressway. It's truly a hidden gem and will only continue to prosper.
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