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Gold Coast

Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is Chicago’s most prestigious neighborhood, known for its historic charm, architectural beauty, and luxurious urban lifestyle. Nestled along Lake Michigan, it offers stunning views, access to Oak Street Beach, and proximity to downtown. The area boasts elegant mansions, modern high-rises, and upscale shopping and dining on Oak Street and the Magnificent Mile. With tree-lined streets, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere, the Gold Coast delivers a sophisticated, high-quality living experience in the heart of the city. Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood got its name in the late 19th century due to its association with immense wealth and luxury. The transformation began in the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 when Potter Palmer, a prominent businessman and real estate developer, purchased a large stretch of land along the lakefront north of downtown. Palmer built an opulent mansion on Lake Shore Drive, inspiring other wealthy Chicagoans to move to the area and construct grand homes. This influx of affluence turned the neighborhood into one of the most exclusive and expensive areas in the city. The term "Gold Coast" reflects both the area's elite status and the golden era of prosperity and opulence it represented. Today, the name continues to signify the neighborhood's reputation for luxury, historic elegance, and high-end living.

The Gold Coast neighborhood in Chicago is renowned for its elegance, history, and upscale urban lifestyle, making it one of the city’s most prestigious areas. Here’s what makes it so special:

1. Luxury Living

  • The Gold Coast is home to stunning historic mansions, modern high-rises, and luxury condos, offering some of the most sought-after residences in Chicago.

2. Prime Location

  • Situated along Lake Michigan, the neighborhood provides easy access to Oak Street Beach, the Lakefront Trail, and breathtaking lake views.
  • Its central location puts residents within walking distance of downtown Chicago and the Magnificent Mile.

3. Architectural Beauty

  • The neighborhood features iconic architecture, including historic brownstones, greystones, and landmarks like the Charnley-Persky House, showcasing its rich history.

4. Upscale Shopping and Dining

  • Residents enjoy world-class shopping on Oak Street and nearby Michigan Avenue, featuring high-end boutiques and designer brands.
  • The dining scene includes some of Chicago’s finest restaurants, trendy cafes, and chic rooftop bars.

5. Cultural and Historical Richness

  • The Gold Coast’s history as one of Chicago’s original affluent neighborhoods is reflected in its preserved elegance and landmarks.
  • Cultural attractions, such as nearby museums and art galleries, enhance the neighborhood’s sophistication.

6. Peaceful and Walkable Streets

  • Despite its urban setting, the Gold Coast offers quiet, tree-lined streets and a walkable, pedestrian-friendly environment.

7. Exclusive Social Scene

  • The neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife, with upscale lounges, luxury hotels, and private clubs like the iconic Drake Hotel and the Newberry Library.

8. High Quality of Life

  • With excellent amenities, proximity to the lakefront, and easy access to public transit, the Gold Coast combines convenience and luxury for a high standard of living.

9. Safety and Community

  • The Gold Coast is considered one of Chicago’s safest neighborhoods, with a strong sense of community among its residents.

The Gold Coast is a special blend of historic charm, architectural beauty, and modern luxury. Its prime lakefront location, world-class shopping and dining, and exclusive atmosphere make it a standout destination for those seeking an upscale and sophisticated lifestyle in the heart of Chicago.


Overview for Gold Coast, IL

14,428 people live in Gold Coast, where the median age is 50 and the average individual income is $134,169. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

14,428

Total Population

50 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$134,169

Average individual Income

Around Gold Coast, IL

There's plenty to do around Gold Coast, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

96
Walker's Paradise
Walking Score
85
Very Bikeable
Bike Score
87
Excellent Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Loud Mouth Food Bikes, Maggie Roeder Cakes, and Cora's Closet.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Loud Mouth Food Bikes Logo
Dining 3.12 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Maggie Roeder Cakes Logo
Dining · $$ 1.57 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Cora's Closet Logo
Shopping 3.84 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
The Colette Collection Logo
Shopping 2.19 miles 19 reviews 5/5 stars
Get Fit with Bill Witte Logo
Active 0.81 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars
Kinetic Axis Logo
Active 2.03 miles 16 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Gold Coast, IL

Population Households Employment

Gold Coast has 8,792 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Gold Coast do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 14,428 people call Gold Coast home. The population density is 86,430.743 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

14,428

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

50

Median Age

47.03 / 52.96%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
8,792

Total Households

2

Average Household Size

$134,169

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Gold Coast, IL

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Gold Coast. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

Neighborhood Gallery

Gold Coast
Gold Coast
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Gold Coast

Property Listings

For Sale
MLS® 12195883
MLS #: 12195883

$21,000,000

1355 N Astor Street, Chicago, IL 60610
5 Beds 6 Baths 25,000 Sq.Ft.
Pending
MLS® 12111701
MLS #: 12111701

$10,800,000

4 E Elm Street Unit: PH23, Chicago, IL 60611
4 Beds 5 Baths 5,400 Sq.Ft.
Active Under Contract
MLS® 12114650
MLS #: 12114650

$7,290,000

1521 N State Parkway, Chicago, IL 60610
6 Beds 8 Baths 9,700 Sq.Ft.
For Sale
MLS® 12219332
MLS #: 12219332

$6,995,000

1515 N STATE Parkway, Chicago, IL 60610
6 Beds 7 Baths 9,680 Sq.Ft.
For Sale
MLS® 12102329
MLS #: 12102329

$6,395,000

1524 N Astor Street, Chicago, IL 60610
3 Beds 6 Baths 6,500 Sq.Ft.
For Sale
MLS® 11976280
MLS #: 11976280

$5,950,000

1540 N Dearborn Parkway, Chicago, IL 60610
5 Beds 9 Baths 7,600 Sq.Ft.
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Contact Details

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(708) 278-3515

324 W Touhy Ave Park Ridge IL 60068