Moving to Streeterville, Chicago: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Streeterville stands out as one of Chicago’s most densely developed downtown neighborhoods, where modern high-rise towers create a vertical community between the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, and the lakefront. Named after colorful character George Wellington Streeter who claimed the landfill area as his own independent district in the 1880s, the neighborhood has evolved into a premier address for luxury downtown living. Floor-to-ceiling windows in modern residential towers provide spectacular views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, and the downtown skyline, while the concentration of luxury buildings means extensive amenities including fitness centers, pools, and concierge services.


The neighborhood serves as both a tourism hub with Navy Pier’s entertainment offerings and a residential community with countless dining options, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and Ohio Street Beach. Northwestern Memorial Hospital anchors the western edge, attracting medical professionals to the area. Streeterville appeals to urban professionals, empty nesters, and anyone seeking a true downtown lifestyle with 24/7 amenities and security. Multiple CTA bus lines and easy highway access make getting around convenient, though many residents find everything they need within walking distance including shopping on Michigan Avenue and restaurants throughout the neighborhood.

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

🎓 Schools & Education

Families moving to Streeterville have access to quality educational options:

Ogden International School, 24 W Walton St | Skinner Classical School, 111 S Throop St | Ogden International School, 24 W Walton St

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

☕ Best Coffee Shops

Start your mornings at these excellent Streeterville coffee shops:

Big Shoulders Coffee, 858 N State St | Goddess and the Baker, 505 N Michigan Ave | Cafecito, 26 E Congress Pkwy

🍽️ Top Restaurants

Discover the diverse dining scene in Streeterville:

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, 1028 N Rush St | RPM Italian, 52 W Illinois St | The Purple Pig, 500 N Michigan Ave

🍺 Bars & Nightlife

Experience Streeterville’s vibrant nightlife at these popular spots:

Timothy O’Toole’s Pub, 622 N Fairbanks Ct | Howells & Hood, 435 N Michigan Ave | Tiny Tavern, 3269 S Halsted St

🐕 Dog Parks & Pet-Friendly Spaces

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

Lakeshore East Dog Park, 450 E Benton Pl

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

💪 Gyms & Fitness Centers

Stay active at these Streeterville fitness facilities:

Planet Fitness Streeterville, Orangetheory Streeterville, Lakeshore Sport & Fitness

🚗 Parking & Street Access in Streeterville

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

• Parking Permits: Most Streeterville 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: Streeterville is located in Zone 4, which affects residential parking permit eligibility.
• Best Moving Times: Weekdays 9am-3pm preferred 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 Streeterville.

🏢 Building Requirements in Streeterville

Common building and condo requirements when moving to Streeterville:

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

💡 Pro Tips for Moving to Streeterville

• Communicate with Streeterville 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 Streeterville for safety and parking considerations

💡 Cost-Saving Tip: Moving to Streeterville 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 Streeterville, Chicago?

The average cost for a Streeterville move ranges from $900-1,400, 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 Streeterville 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 Streeterville?

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

When is the best time to move to Streeterville?

Weekdays 9am-3pm preferred is typically the best time to move to Streeterville. 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 Streeterville movers 4-6 weeks in advance during peak season.

Is Streeterville a safe neighborhood?

Safe – High security, low crime despite downtown location. 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 Streeterville.

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

Do Streeterville buildings require insurance from movers?

Yes, most Streeterville 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 Streeterville 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 Streeterville?

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

When choosing movers for Streeterville, 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 Streeterville 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 Streeterville?

Yes, Streeterville is served by several quality schools including Ogden International School, 24 W Walton St | Skinner Classical School, 111 S Throop St | Ogden International School, 24 W Walton St. When moving to Streeterville 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 Streeterville before moving?

Before moving to Streeterville, spend time walking the streets at different times of day, visit local coffee shops like Big Shoulders Coffee, 858 N State St | Goddess and the Baker, 505 N Michigan Ave | Cafecito, 26 E Congress Pkwy, dine at neighborhood restaurants, and talk to residents. Check out Lakeshore East Dog Park, 450 E Benton Pl 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.