Frequently Asked Questions about Chatham
What is it like to live in Chatham, Chicago, IL?
Chatham on Chicago’s South Side is a predominantly residential, historically middle‑class African American neighborhood characterized by brick bungalows, single‑family homes and tree‑lined streets. Residents have access to local retail corridors, churches, parks, public schools, CTA bus service and nearby Metra Electric/CTA rail connections for downtown access. Housing is generally more affordable than many North Side neighborhoods with a high rate of homeownership; public‑safety levels vary, so consult Chicago Police district data for current crime statistics.
Is Chatham, Chicago, IL expensive?
Chatham is generally more affordable than many Chicago neighborhoods, with home sale prices and rental rates typically below the city median. The housing mix of single-family homes and modest apartment buildings contributes to lower average costs compared with central and North Side areas. Local property taxes and utilities are comparable to citywide levels; recent market activity has shown modest appreciation but the neighborhood remains relatively affordable overall.
What is the weather of Chatham, Chicago, IL?
Chatham has a humid continental climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Average January highs are around 31°F (−1°C) with lows near 17°F (−8°C), while July highs average about 84°F (29°C) with lows near 67°F (19°C). Precipitation is spread year-round with spring/summer thunderstorms and measurable winter snowfall; Lake Michigan moderates extremes somewhat but effects are stronger nearer the lake.
How safe is Chatham, Chicago, IL?
Chatham has reported violent-crime and homicide rates higher than the Chicago average in recent years, based on Chicago Police Department statistics through 2024. Crime levels vary block by block within the community, with some areas experiencing significantly more incidents than others. For current, verifiable safety details consult CPD crime maps, the Chicago Data Portal, and local community-policing or beat reports.