Rogers Park

It is hard to pin down what makes Rogers Park, Chicago’s north-most neighborhood, such a special and interesting place. Some residents love the over-abundance of beaches and easy Lake Michigan access. Others come for the huge selection of affordable vintage living options. Still more citizens enjoy living in one of the most culturally diverse areas in Chicago and in the entire country. In reality, it is probably all of the above that endears Rogers Park to those who live and work there and the area is a good choice for those looking for a non-cookie cutter place to be in an increasingly homogenized city.

Located on Chicago’s fan northeast corner, Rogers Park is home to around 63,000 souls who speak more than 80 separate languages among themselves. Also, people of different income levels live side-by-side here and work to create a place that reflects residents’ celebration of harmonious living. There are also many attractions here that can be enticing to those looking for a city neighborhood to call home. Rogers Park is home to Loyola University’s Lakeshore Campus, which sits on a gorgeous piece of lakefront and is a popular pick for higher education. Rogers Park residents have no shortage of options when it comes to dining and shopping, as the area is full of interesting restaurants, bars, and small businesses. Some of the establishments here cater to a more liberal and progressive crowd than might be found in other city spots, including the eternally funky Heartland Café (7000 N. Glenwood, www.heartlandcafe.com) and the Lake Side Café (1418 W. Howard, www.lake-side-cafe.com). Those looking for live music can hang out at Morseland (1218 W. Morse, www.morseland.com) and get their groove on. This is the area you want to go to for something fun to do that might be a bit off the beaten path.

Rogers Park is currently going through its gentrification period, which provokes strong feelings from area residents on both sides of the issue. Many property owners and businesses support the gentrification process, pointing out that it raises property values and home ownership, reduces crime, and brings investment in the community. Those opposing gentrification claim that it displaces older and lower-income residents in favor of more affluent single and couples, reduces diversity, and does not establish long-term residence. No matter which side of the issue anyone supports, it is clear that Roger Park is going through some changes and it is still unclear what the area will be like when the dust settles. There are, however, many new buildings going up and vintage rehabs being converted into condos, which is a good sign that the gentrification supporters are winning the fight. Those interested in finding a place to live here would do well to consult a local Roger Park real estate agent for current property listings and availability. More information concerning just about anything one would need to know about the Park can be found on the neighborhood’s website, www.rogerspark.com, which gives detailed descriptions of real estate, business, art, and entertainment options to be found in Chicago’s far north corner.

Mike O'Cull