Frequently Asked Questions about Sheffield & DePaul
What is it like to live in Sheffield & DePaul, Chicago, IL?
The area around Sheffield Avenue and DePaul University's Lincoln Park campus is a dense, walkable urban neighborhood with student housing, vintage residential buildings, and many restaurants, bars, and shops. Public transit is robust—Fullerton station serves the CTA Red, Brown and Purple Lines, multiple bus routes run nearby, and bike-share and bike lanes support cycling. Safety is relatively good compared with Chicago averages; DePaul operates campus safety services and the Chicago Police maintain a visible presence, though property crimes and occasional nightlife-related incidents occur. Housing costs and rents are above the city average due to proximity to the lake and university, and residents have easy access to Lincoln Park and the lakefront trail.
Is Sheffield & DePaul, Chicago, IL expensive?
Yes — Sheffield & DePaul is generally more expensive than the Chicago average, with higher rents and home prices. Higher costs stem from proximity to DePaul University, lakefront access, and nearby shops and restaurants. Housing stock includes student-oriented rentals, historic greystones/condos, and market-rate apartments, so prices vary by housing type but remain above citywide norms.
What is the weather of Sheffield & DePaul, Chicago, IL?
The area has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy (average January highs near 31°F/−0.5°C and lows around 17°F/−8°C) and can get lake-effect snow, while summers are warm to hot and humid (average July highs about 84–85°F/29°C and lows near 68°F/20°C). Spring and fall are transitional with variable temperatures and moderate precipitation; thunderstorms occur most often in late spring and summer, and proximity to Lake Michigan moderates temperatures with lake breezes.
How safe is Sheffield & DePaul, Chicago, IL?
This area in Lincoln Park generally reports lower violent crime than the Chicago city average, but property crimes (thefts, burglaries and vehicle break‑ins) are the most common incidents. DePaul University operates campus safety services and the neighborhood is served by the Chicago Police Department’s 18th District, which provides regular patrols. Residents and students are advised to use standard urban precautions—secure bikes and vehicles, lock doors, and be cautious around nightlife corridors and transit stops.