Avondale is a neighborhood on Chicago’s northwest side, north of Logan Square and south of the Irving Park neighborhood. It is west of Lakeview and directly west of Lakeview’s Roscoe Village. It includes the areas that are sometimes referred to as Belmont Gardens, Polish Village and Kosciuszko Park.

Historically known as a Polish neighborhood dotted with industrial buildings, Avondale has been transforming as gentrification spreads westward from Roscoe Village. Convenient access to the Kennedy Expressway provides easy access to the suburbs and the Belmont Blue Line stop takes commuters right to The Loop. Travelers have a direct route to the O’Hare airport via either the CTA Blue Line or the Kennedy

Many of Avondale’s residents have a Polish heritage. This is reflected in many businesses catering to Polish clients, including restaurants and speciality shops. The area is also home to many independent businesses including the highly acclaimed burger joint Kuma’s Corner, coffeehouses, taquerias and even a dog training facility. The working-class roots of the area are apparent in housing stock that includes bungalows and workers cottages. As the area gentrifies, former warehouses and factories are being converted into apartments, condos and lofts.

Housing in Avondale

The Avondale housing market can be less competitive than in surrounding neighborhoods. Recently the median sale price for a single family home has been around $380k. Because older homes in this area were built to house large families, four and five bedroom homes are not unusual. Avondale is a great place to look if you are in the market for a single family home, including cottages and brick bungalows. Small backyards and detached garages are common. There are many two flats and former industrial spaces that have been converted into apartments or condos.