Moving to Andersonville, Chicago: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Andersonville has evolved from a Swedish immigrant enclave into one of Chicago’s most diverse and progressive neighborhoods while maintaining its Scandinavian heritage and small-town charm. Clark Street serves as the neighborhood’s main artery, lined with independently owned shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues that reflect the community’s commitment to supporting local businesses. The Swedish American Museum and numerous Swedish restaurants and bakeries honor the neighborhood’s roots, while rainbow flags and LGBTQ+ owned businesses celebrate Andersonville’s status as one of the city’s most welcoming and inclusive communities.


Residential streets feature well-maintained vintage apartments and single-family homes with front porches where neighbors gather, creating an unusually friendly atmosphere for urban Chicago. The neighborhood attracts diverse residents including LGBTQ+ individuals and families, young professionals, and longtime residents drawn to the community-focused environment and local business district. Excellent lakefront access, quality public schools, and the Red Line for downtown commutes add to the appeal. Andersonville hosts numerous street festivals celebrating everything from its Swedish heritage to its vibrant arts community, and despite increasing popularity, maintains more affordable housing options compared to neighborhoods closer to downtown while preserving its independent spirit.

Why move to Andersonville? Whether you’re drawn to the neighborhood’s cultural attractions, excellent dining scene, or strong sense of community, Andersonville offers an authentic Chicago living experience with easy access to downtown and all that the city has to offer.

🎓 Schools & Education

Families moving to Andersonville have access to quality educational options:

Goudy Elementary School, 5120 N Winthrop Ave | Volta Elementary School, 4950 N Avers Ave | Amundsen High School, 5110 N Damen Ave

Learn more about school options and enrollment at Chicago Public Schools.

☕ Best Coffee Shops

Start your mornings at these excellent Andersonville coffee shops:

Kopi Cafe, 5317 N Clark St | The Coffee Studio, 5628 N Clark St | Dollop Coffee, 5317 N Clark St

🍽️ Top Restaurants

Discover the diverse dining scene in Andersonville:

Hopleaf Bar, 5148 N Clark St | Reza’s Restaurant, 5255 N Clark St | Big Jones, 5347 N Clark St

🍺 Bars & Nightlife

Experience Andersonville’s vibrant nightlife at these popular spots:

Simon’s Tavern, 5210 N Clark St | Hopleaf Bar, 5148 N Clark St | Big Jones, 5347 N Clark St

🐕 Dog Parks & Pet-Friendly Spaces

If you’re moving to Andersonville with a furry friend, check out these dog-friendly areas:

Puptown Dog Park, 4901 N Sheridan Rd

Find more Chicago parks and recreation areas at the Chicago Park District.

💪 Gyms & Fitness Centers

Stay active at these Andersonville fitness facilities:

Big Shoulders Strength & Conditioning, Orangetheory Andersonville, Anytime Fitness

🚗 Parking & Street Access in Andersonville

Successfully moving to Andersonville requires careful planning for Chicago’s parking regulations and street access requirements:

• Parking Permits: Most Andersonville buildings sometimes require temporary no-parking signs posted 48 hours in advance. Contact your Chicago alderman’s office and pick them up in person.
• Parking Zone: Andersonville is located in Zone 2, which affects residential parking permit eligibility.
• Best Moving Times: Year-round offers the most flexibility. Avoid moving on the last three days of the month when rates are 20-30% higher.
• Street Restrictions: Check for street cleaning schedules, rush hour restrictions, and neighborhood-specific regulations in Andersonville.

🏢 Building Requirements in Andersonville

Common building and condo requirements when moving to Andersonville:

• Elevator Access: Sometimes buildings in Andersonville have elevator access. Reserve elevators 1-2 weeks in advance and confirm padding requirements.
• Loading Dock Availability: Rare availability in Andersonville. Coordinate with building management for dock schedules.
• Certificate of Insurance (COI): Yes – Most Andersonville buildings require proof of insurance with $1M+ general liability coverage from your moving company.
• Move-In Reservation: Book your move-in date with Andersonville building management 2-3 weeks ahead. Some buildings restrict moves to weekdays only.
• Building Protection: Movers must use floor runners, door jamb protectors, and elevator padding to prevent damage to Andersonville properties.

💡 Pro Tips for Moving to Andersonville

• Communicate with Andersonville neighbors about your move-in date
• Take photos of hallways and common areas before moving
• Keep building management contact info readily available
• Tip your movers – the standard is 15-20% for excellent service
• Research specific blocks and streets within Andersonville for safety and parking considerations

💡 Cost-Saving Tip: Moving to Andersonville mid-week or mid-month can save 15-25% compared to weekend or month-end moves. Ask local moving companies about discounts for flexible scheduling!

How much does it cost to move to Andersonville, Chicago?

The average cost for a Andersonville move ranges from $650-900, depending on apartment size and specific requirements. Studio apartments typically cost $450-700, 1BR apartments range $600-900, 2BR apartments cost $900-1,500, and 3BR+ apartments range $1,500-3,500. Factors affecting Andersonville moving costs include building access (elevator vs. walk-up), parking availability, distance traveled, time of month, and additional services like packing. Get multiple quotes from licensed Chicago moving companies to compare rates.

Do I need a parking permit to move in Andersonville?

Yes, most moves in Andersonville require temporary no-parking signs posted 48 hours in advance and loading zone reservations through the City of Chicago. Contact 311 (dial 311 or visit 311.chicago.gov) to reserve loading zones. Your moving company can often help coordinate Chicago parking permits for Andersonville relocations. Failure to secure proper permits can result in parking tickets and delays.

When is the best time to move to Andersonville?

Year-round is typically the best time to move to Andersonville. Mid-week and mid-month moves offer the best rates and availability. Avoid the last three days of the month when demand is highest and prices increase 20-30%. Summer months (June-August) are the busiest moving season in Chicago, so book Andersonville movers 4-6 weeks in advance during peak season.

Is Andersonville a safe neighborhood?

Safe – Low crime, strong community. As with any Chicago neighborhood, safety can vary by specific blocks and streets. We recommend researching crime statistics for your exact address, visiting the area at different times of day, and talking to current residents before moving to Andersonville.

Check the Chicago Police Department’s crime map and community resources for the most current safety information in Andersonville.

Do Andersonville buildings require insurance from movers?

Yes, most Andersonville buildings and condo associations require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) with at least $1 million in general liability coverage from your moving company. All reputable Chicago movers carry proper insurance and can provide COI documentation immediately upon request. This protects both you and the Andersonville building from potential damages during the move. Always verify your mover is properly licensed and insured.

How far in advance should I book movers for Andersonville?

We recommend booking Andersonville movers 3-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak moving season (May-September). For month-end moves or summer relocations, book 6-8 weeks ahead to ensure availability. Same-day and next-day moving services are often available for urgent Andersonville moves, though rates may be higher. Early booking guarantees better rates and your preferred moving date. Many Andersonville Movers recommend booking 4-6 weeks in advance during peak moving season to ensure availability and optimal pricing.

What should I look for in a Andersonville moving company?

When choosing movers for Andersonville, verify they are licensed with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), carry proper insurance, have positive online reviews, offer transparent pricing, and are familiar with Chicago building requirements. Ask about experience with Andersonville properties, elevator reservations, parking permits, and whether they provide COI documentation. Get written estimates from at least 3 companies before deciding.

Are there good schools in Andersonville?

Yes, Andersonville is served by several quality schools including Goudy Elementary School, 5120 N Winthrop Ave | Volta Elementary School, 4950 N Avers Ave | Amundsen High School, 5110 N Damen Ave. When moving to Andersonville with children, research individual schools’ performance ratings, visit in person if possible, and consider proximity to your new home. Chicago Public Schools offers school choice options, allowing families to apply to schools outside their attendance area.

What’s the best way to explore Andersonville before moving?

Before moving to Andersonville, spend time walking the streets at different times of day, visit local coffee shops like Kopi Cafe, 5317 N Clark St | The Coffee Studio, 5628 N Clark St | Dollop Coffee, 5317 N Clark St, dine at neighborhood restaurants, and talk to residents. Check out Puptown Dog Park, 4901 N Sheridan Rd if you have pets, and explore nearby gyms and fitness centers. This hands-on research will help you understand the neighborhood’s character and determine if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.