Moving to Noble Square, Chicago: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Noble Square occupies a small area between the Kennedy Expressway, Chicago River, and Division Street featuring a mix of residential development, remaining industrial sites, and proximity to some of the city’s hottest restaurant and nightlife scenes. The neighborhood has experienced significant redevelopment with new condo and apartment buildings replacing former industrial sites creating modern housing near downtown. Noble Square attracts young professionals and couples drawn to new construction, proximity to West Loop and River North dining, and quick Kennedy Expressway access for suburban commutes.


The neighborhood has limited retail and services with residents relying on nearby areas for shopping and dining though some new commercial development is arriving. Chicago Avenue provides some neighborhood businesses while Division Street and the West Loop are easily accessible. The area appeals to those prioritizing modern amenities, downtown proximity, and transit access over neighborhood character and walkability. While lacking historic architecture and established neighborhood feel of surrounding areas, Noble Square offers newer construction at somewhat more accessible prices than River North or West Loop.

Why move to Noble Square? Whether you’re drawn to the neighborhood’s cultural attractions, excellent dining scene, or strong sense of community, Noble 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 Noble Square have access to quality educational options:

Moos Elementary School, 1711 N California Ave | LaSalle Language Academy, 1148 N Honore St | Wells Community Academy, 936 N Ashland Ave

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

☕ Best Coffee Shops

Start your mornings at these excellent Noble Square coffee shops:

Sawada Coffee, 112 N Green St | Goddess and the Baker, 1620 N Wells St | La Colombe Coffee, 955 W Randolph St

🍽️ Top Restaurants

Discover the diverse dining scene in Noble Square:

Girl & The Goat, 809 W Randolph St | The Publican, 837 W Fulton Market | Au Cheval, 800 W Randolph St

🍺 Bars & Nightlife

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

The Violet Hour, 1520 N Damen Ave | Federales, 1558 W Chicago Ave | Small Bar Division, 2049 W Division St

🐕 Dog Parks & Pet-Friendly Spaces

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

Wicker Dog Park, 1425 N Damen Ave

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

💪 Gyms & Fitness Centers

Stay active at these Noble Square fitness facilities:

Chicago Athletic Clubs, LA Fitness, CrossTown Fitness

🚗 Parking & Street Access in Noble Square

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

• Parking Permits: Most Noble 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: Noble 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 Noble Square.

🏢 Building Requirements in Noble Square

Common building and condo requirements when moving to Noble Square:

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

💡 Pro Tips for Moving to Noble Square

• Communicate with Noble 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 Noble Square for safety and parking considerations

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

The average cost for a Noble Square move ranges from $650-950, 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 Noble 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 Noble Square?

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

When is the best time to move to Noble Square?

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

Is Noble Square a safe neighborhood?

Moderate – Gentrifying, improving safety. 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 Noble Square.

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

Do Noble Square buildings require insurance from movers?

Yes, most Noble 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 Noble 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 Noble Square?

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

When choosing movers for Noble 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 Noble 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 Noble Square?

Yes, Noble Square is served by several quality schools including Moos Elementary School, 1711 N California Ave | LaSalle Language Academy, 1148 N Honore St | Wells Community Academy, 936 N Ashland Ave. When moving to Noble 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 Noble Square before moving?

Before moving to Noble Square, spend time walking the streets at different times of day, visit local coffee shops like Sawada Coffee, 112 N Green St | Goddess and the Baker, 1620 N Wells St | La Colombe Coffee, 955 W Randolph St, dine at neighborhood restaurants, and talk to residents. Check out Wicker Dog Park, 1425 N Damen Ave 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.