Castillo Rancon
Chicago may be a big city, but affordable housing still exists in pockets across the city. Buyers willing to look beyond downtown can find neighborhoods with strong communities, green space, and rich history—without the high price tags. Here are ten areas where housing costs stay manageable while urban convenience and character remain firmly intact.
South Shore
Lakefront living doesn’t have to break the bank. In the South Shore, the median home value is $132,223, which is significantly lower than the average in Chicago. Residents here can enjoy proximity to Rainbow Beach and the Cultural Center, while the nearby Metra Electric line offers a direct commute to downtown.
Roseland
Once home to Chicago’s historic Pullman railroad industry, the neighborhood retains architectural landmarks and a deep sense of South Side heritage. The housing market is on the rise, with the median sale price per square foot being $126. However, it remains well below the city average.
Englewood
Englewood stands out with some of Chicago’s most affordable rents, averaging around $1,300 per month—almost 45% less than the citywide average of $2,381. Coupled with active community revitalization efforts, this affordability is fueling the growth of new local businesses and food co-ops, bringing fresh energy and opportunity to the neighborhood.
Chatham
Known for its solid brick homes and strong community ties, Chatham flaunts an average home value of $187,991. Residents also benefit from several public libraries, historic churches, and well-maintained parks that add depth to daily life beyond just housing.
Austin
Austin is home to Columbus Park, a National Historic Landmark designed by famed architect Jens Jensen. The median sale price per square foot is $174, providing better value for your money compared to many neighborhoods in Chicago.
Brighton Park
Residents in Brighton Park enjoy lower living costs, with the average rent around $1,250, which is about 30% below Chicago’s median rent. The neighborhood’s convenient access to the CTA Orange Line makes commuting downtown quick and affordable.
West Pullman
Bordering the Calumet Forest Preserve, this neighborhood offers abundant green space and outdoor activities—an uncommon find near Chicago’s southern edge. With median home sale prices around $150,000, West Pullman stands out as one of the city’s most budget-friendly hidden gems.
Burnside
Burnside ranks among Chicago’s most affordable neighborhoods, with a median rent being below $1,000. The low population density keeps demand low, which helps maintain cheap housing options. Despite being small, the community has strong local schools and parks that add value beyond just price.
Riverdale
Riverdale stands out with a median home price of approximately $135,000. This affordability, combined with the neighborhood’s proximity to public transport and major highways, provides residents with budget-friendly living with convenient access to the broader city.
Albany Park
Albany Park’s diversity shines through its local businesses and food scene. The median home price is around $ 345,000, higher than others on this list, but rents remain reasonable, and the neighborhood hosts one of the city’s most ethnically diverse populations.
