About West Ridge
West Ridge is a culturally rich and close-knit neighborhood located on Chicago’s far North Side. Bordered by Rogers Park to the east, Lincolnwood to the west, and Evanston to the north, West Ridge is home to approximately 77,000 residents. Known for its residential character, strong immigrant communities, and diverse commercial corridors, the neighborhood offers a balance of quiet streets and lively local activity. Its distance from downtown Chicago—about 10 miles—makes it well suited for residents who value neighborhood stability while still having access to the city.
Formerly known as North Town, West Ridge was annexed by the City of Chicago in 1893. In its early years, the area was largely rural, dotted with farms, greenhouses, and small settlements. As streetcar lines expanded in the early 20th century, West Ridge developed into a residential neighborhood with brick two-flats, courtyard apartment buildings, and single-family homes. Many of these structures remain today, giving the neighborhood a consistent architectural character and a strong sense of history.
West Ridge is one of Chicago’s most ethnically and religiously diverse neighborhoods. It is especially known for its large South Asian population, as well as significant Jewish, Eastern European, Middle Eastern, African, and Latino communities. This diversity is most visible along Devon Avenue, a major commercial strip famous for Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Middle Eastern restaurants, grocery stores, clothing shops, and jewelry businesses. Devon Avenue has become a regional destination, attracting visitors from across the Chicago area and beyond.
The neighborhood is primarily residential, with a mix of renters and homeowners. Housing options range from classic Chicago bungalows and brick two-flats to mid-rise apartment buildings. Compared to other North Side neighborhoods, West Ridge remains relatively affordable, making it attractive to families, seniors, and newcomers to the city. Median household income reflects a working- and middle-class community, supported by stable housing and long-term residents.
Education is an important part of life in West Ridge. The neighborhood is served by several Chicago Public Schools, including Boone Elementary, Stone Elementary, and West Ridge Elementary School. High school students often attend Mather High School or Sullivan High School in nearby areas. West Ridge is also home to many private and religious schools, reflecting the neighborhood’s diverse faith communities and commitment to education.
Economically, West Ridge is supported by small businesses, retail, healthcare, and social services. In addition to Devon Avenue, commercial activity can be found along Western Avenue and Touhy Avenue. Many residents commute to other parts of Chicago for work, using nearby CTA bus routes and the Brown Line terminal at Kimball, as well as Metra service just west of the neighborhood. This accessibility helps connect West Ridge to job centers throughout the city and suburbs.
Recreation and green space are key neighborhood assets. Indian Boundary Park is one of West Ridge’s most beloved landmarks, featuring a historic fieldhouse, lagoon, walking paths, playgrounds, and cultural programming. The park serves as a gathering place for residents of all ages and backgrounds. Additional smaller parks and schoolyards throughout the neighborhood provide space for sports, relaxation, and community activities.
West Ridge is known for strong community involvement and civic engagement. Neighborhood organizations, faith-based institutions, and local nonprofits play an active role in addressing community needs and fostering cooperation among residents. Cultural celebrations, religious events, and local initiatives help strengthen connections across the neighborhood’s many communities.
For those considering life in Chicago, West Ridge offers a unique combination of cultural diversity, affordability, and neighborhood stability. With its welcoming atmosphere, vibrant business districts, respected schools, and strong community institutions, West Ridge stands out as a place where tradition and change coexist. It is a neighborhood defined by its people, its cultures, and its enduring sense of home on Chicago’s North Side.
