Frequently Asked Questions about Garfield Park
What is it like to live in Garfield Park, Chicago, IL?
Garfield Park is a West Side Chicago neighborhood centered on Garfield Park and the Garfield Park Conservatory, about six miles west of the Loop. Housing is a mix of historic greystones, bungalows and low-rise multifamily buildings, and housing costs are generally lower than the citywide median. Public amenities include the conservatory, park athletic fields, and local community programs, while transit access is provided by CTA buses and major roadways to downtown. Crime rates in parts of the neighborhood have been higher than Chicago averages in recent years, so safety conditions vary block by block.
Is Garfield Park, Chicago, IL expensive?
The neighborhood is generally more affordable than Chicago's citywide averages, with median home values and rents typically below the city mean. Housing consists largely of modest single-family homes and low-rise multifamily buildings, which contributes to lower purchase and rental prices compared with downtown and north-side neighborhoods. Median household income in the area is below the Chicago average, which correlates with lower housing costs.
What is the weather of Garfield Park, Chicago, IL?
Garfield Park experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons: cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Average January highs are near 31°F (−1°C) and July highs around 84°F (29°C); annual precipitation is roughly 34–36 inches and annual snowfall about 30–40 inches. Proximity to Lake Michigan slightly moderates temperatures closer to the lake, while the west-side neighborhood typically sees wider temperature swings, summer thunderstorms, and occasional winter snowstorms.
How safe is Garfield Park, Chicago, IL?
Garfield Park has higher rates of violent and property crime than the Chicago citywide average, according to Chicago Police Department statistics. Crime is unevenly distributed, with higher concentrations in parts of West Garfield Park and along certain corridors, so safety can vary block-by-block. For current, block-level data and safety guidance, consult the Chicago Police Department crime maps and local community resources before visiting or relocating.