Moving to Lincoln Square, Chicago: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Lincoln Square preserves its German heritage while evolving into one of Chicago’s most family-friendly neighborhoods where European charm meets modern urban living. The picturesque square at Lincoln and Western Avenues serves as the neighborhood heart featuring the original fountain plaza where families gather and the annual German-American Fest draws thousands. Wide, tree-lined streets showcase well-maintained single-family homes, greystones, and vintage apartment buildings that appeal to young families seeking neighborhood charm with city convenience. The neighborhood’s commitment to walkability and local businesses creates a village-like atmosphere rare in major cities.


Lincoln Avenue’s commercial corridor features beloved institutions including the Old Town School of Folk Music, independent bookstores, German restaurants and bars, and the historic Davis Theater. The neighborhood appeals to families with young children drawn to excellent public and private schools, safe streets, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community. The Brown Line provides downtown access while maintaining enough distance to preserve a genuine neighborhood feel. Lincoln Square residents pride themselves on supporting independent businesses, participating in community events, and maintaining the neighborhood’s European-influenced character that makes it feel distinct from other Chicago neighborhoods.

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

🎓 Schools & Education

Families moving to Lincoln Square have access to quality educational options:

Ravenswood Elementary School, 4332 N Paulina St | Queen of Angels School, 2330 W Sunnyside 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 Lincoln Square coffee shops:

Beans & Bagels, 4601 N Western Ave | Cafe Selmarie, 4729 N Lincoln Ave | The Coffee Studio, 4835 N Western Ave

🍽️ Top Restaurants

Discover the diverse dining scene in Lincoln Square:

Gather, 4539 N Lincoln Ave | Chicago Brauhaus, 4732 N Lincoln Ave | Luella’s Southern Kitchen, 4609 N Lincoln Ave

🍺 Bars & Nightlife

Experience Lincoln Square’s vibrant nightlife at these popular spots:

Huettenbar, 4721 N Lincoln Ave | Chicago Brauhaus, 4732 N Lincoln Ave | DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, 4740 N Western Ave

🐕 Dog Parks & Pet-Friendly Spaces

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

Winnemac Park Dog Area, 5001 N Leavitt St

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

💪 Gyms & Fitness Centers

Stay active at these Lincoln Square fitness facilities:

Chicago Athletic Clubs Lincoln Square, Anytime Fitness, Orangetheory Lincoln Square

🚗 Parking & Street Access in Lincoln Square

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

• Parking Permits: Most Lincoln Square 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: Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square.

🏢 Building Requirements in Lincoln Square

Common building and condo requirements when moving to Lincoln Square:

• Elevator Access: Sometimes buildings in Lincoln Square have elevator access. Reserve elevators 1-2 weeks in advance and confirm padding requirements.
• Loading Dock Availability: Rare availability in Lincoln Square. Coordinate with building management for dock schedules.
• Certificate of Insurance (COI): Yes – Most Lincoln Square buildings require proof of insurance with $1M+ general liability coverage from your moving company.
• Move-In Reservation: Book your move-in date with Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square properties.

💡 Pro Tips for Moving to Lincoln Square

• Communicate with Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square for safety and parking considerations

💡 Cost-Saving Tip: Moving to Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square, Chicago?

The average cost for a Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square?

Yes, most moves in Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square relocations. Failure to secure proper permits can result in parking tickets and delays.

When is the best time to move to Lincoln Square?

Year-round is typically the best time to move to Lincoln Square. 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 Lincoln Square movers 4-6 weeks in advance during peak season.

Is Lincoln Square a safe neighborhood?

Safe – Crime 50% below national average. 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 Lincoln Square.

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

Do Lincoln Square buildings require insurance from movers?

Yes, most Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square?

We recommend booking Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square moves, though rates may be higher. Early booking guarantees better rates and your preferred moving date. Many Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square moving company?

When choosing movers for Lincoln Square, 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 Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square?

Yes, Lincoln Square is served by several quality schools including Ravenswood Elementary School, 4332 N Paulina St | Queen of Angels School, 2330 W Sunnyside Ave | Amundsen High School, 5110 N Damen Ave. When moving to Lincoln Square 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 Lincoln Square before moving?

Before moving to Lincoln Square, spend time walking the streets at different times of day, visit local coffee shops like Beans & Bagels, 4601 N Western Ave | Cafe Selmarie, 4729 N Lincoln Ave | The Coffee Studio, 4835 N Western Ave, dine at neighborhood restaurants, and talk to residents. Check out Winnemac Park Dog Area, 5001 N Leavitt St 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.