Moving to Old Town, Chicago: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Old Town stands as one of Chicago’s most historic and charming neighborhoods, featuring beautifully preserved Victorian-era homes and intimate cobblestone streets that transport visitors to a different era. The neighborhood achieved fame in the 1960s and 70s as a bohemian arts district, and while significantly gentrified, maintains its creative spirit through institutions like The Second City comedy club where legends from John Belushi to Tina Fey launched their careers. Wells Street serves as the commercial heart, lined with independent shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues that draw visitors citywide, while the annual Old Town Art Fair ranks among the nation’s premiere outdoor art exhibitions.


The neighborhood showcases stunning Victorian architecture, particularly along charming enclaves like Crilly Court where restored workers’ cottages create a storybook atmosphere. Old Town appeals to professionals, entertainers, and families who appreciate historic character, walkability, and proximity to downtown via multiple CTA lines. Residents enjoy easy access to Lincoln Park’s amenities to the north and benefit from a tight-knit community atmosphere fostered by the Old Town Triangle Association. Despite rising property values and increasing luxury development, the neighborhood maintains its artistic heritage and community-focused identity while offering some of the finest historic housing stock in the city.

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

🎓 Schools & Education

Families moving to Old Town have access to quality educational options:

Manierre Elementary School, 1420 W Division St | Lincoln Elementary School, 615 W Kemper Pl | Lincoln Park High School, 2001 N Burling St

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

☕ Best Coffee Shops

Start your mornings at these excellent Old Town coffee shops:

Old Town Social, 1355 N Wells St | Goddess and the Baker, 1620 N Wells St | Starbucks, 1440 N Wells St

🍽️ Top Restaurants

Discover the diverse dining scene in Old Town:

Twin Anchors, 1655 N Sedgwick St | Old Jerusalem, 1411 N Wells St | Topo Gigio, 1516 N Wells St

🍺 Bars & Nightlife

Experience Old Town’s vibrant nightlife at these popular spots:

Old Town Ale House, 219 W North Ave | Twin Anchors, 1655 N Sedgwick St | Old Town Social, 455 W North Ave

🐕 Dog Parks & Pet-Friendly Spaces

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

Seward Park Dog Area, 375 W Elm St

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

💪 Gyms & Fitness Centers

Stay active at these Old Town fitness facilities:

FFC Old Town, Equinox Old Town, Orangetheory Old Town

🚗 Parking & Street Access in Old Town

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

• Parking Permits: Most Old Town 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: Old Town is located in Zone 1, 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 Old Town.

🏢 Building Requirements in Old Town

Common building and condo requirements when moving to Old Town:

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

💡 Pro Tips for Moving to Old Town

• Communicate with Old Town 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 Old Town for safety and parking considerations

💡 Cost-Saving Tip: Moving to Old Town 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 Old Town, Chicago?

The average cost for a Old Town move ranges from $750-1,100, 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 Old Town 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 Old Town?

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

When is the best time to move to Old Town?

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

Is Old Town a safe neighborhood?

Safe – Well-maintained, low crime rates. 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 Old Town.

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

Do Old Town buildings require insurance from movers?

Yes, most Old Town 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 Old Town 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 Old Town?

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

When choosing movers for Old Town, 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 Old Town 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 Old Town?

Yes, Old Town is served by several quality schools including Manierre Elementary School, 1420 W Division St | Lincoln Elementary School, 615 W Kemper Pl | Lincoln Park High School, 2001 N Burling St. When moving to Old Town 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 Old Town before moving?

Before moving to Old Town, spend time walking the streets at different times of day, visit local coffee shops like Old Town Social, 1355 N Wells St | Goddess and the Baker, 1620 N Wells St | Starbucks, 1440 N Wells St, dine at neighborhood restaurants, and talk to residents. Check out Seward Park Dog Area, 375 W Elm 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.