Frequently Asked Questions about Far Southwest Side
What is it like to live in Far Southwest Side, Chicago, IL?
The Far Southwest Side is largely residential with many single-family and bungalow-style homes and lower population density than denser Chicago neighborhoods. Commuting is generally car-oriented, though parts are served by Metra Rock Island District and Pace buses and have access to major expressways (I-55 and I-294). Housing and living costs are generally more affordable than the Chicago average, and residents have access to parks and Cook County forest preserves; safety and amenities vary considerably by neighborhood.
Is Far Southwest Side, Chicago, IL expensive?
The Far Southwest Side of Chicago is generally more affordable than the citywide average, with median home prices and rents typically below Chicago’s overall medians. Housing is dominated by single-family homes and bungalows, which usually yield lower per-unit costs compared with downtown and North Side high-rise neighborhoods. Affordability varies locally—areas such as Beverly and Mount Greenwood trend pricier, while neighborhoods like Ashburn and Gage Park are notably less expensive. Check current MLS or rental listings for precise, up-to-date comparisons.
What is the weather of Far Southwest Side, Chicago, IL?
The Far Southwest Side has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons: cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Winters commonly bring subfreezing temperatures, regular snowfall and occasional lake-enhanced snow squalls, while summers feature warm to hot days with humidity and periodic thunderstorms. Spring and fall are transitional with variable temperatures and wind, and Lake Michigan can modestly moderate temperatures though its effects are stronger nearer the lakefront.
How safe is Far Southwest Side, Chicago, IL?
Safety varies widely across the Far Southwest Side; residential neighborhoods such as Beverly and Mount Greenwood report violent-crime rates below the Chicago average, while neighborhoods including Roseland and West Pullman have higher violent- and property-crime rates. Chicago Police Department crime statistics and the City of Chicago Data Portal (latest available through 2024) reflect this neighborhood-level variation. For current, block-level risk assessment consult the City of Chicago crime maps, CPD weekly reports, and local CAPS/community safety resources.