Are you searching for a neighborhood in Evanston, IL, that strikes the perfect balance between peaceful suburban charm and vibrant community life? The Commons & Bests neighborhood, snuggled between the leafy avenues of Wesley Avenue and Dewey Avenue, just west of Ridge Avenue, might just be your ideal landing spot. Whether you’re contemplating a move across town or making the leap from Chicago or beyond, here’s the insider’s guide to living in Commons & Bests—straight from neighbors who call it home.
Community Vibe: Welcoming and Close-Knit
What sets Commons & Bests apart is its warmth—a genuine, welcoming vibe that’s felt from the first stroll down Washington or Greenwood Street. Residents wave from front porches, and annual traditions like the block party on Asbury Avenue bring everyone together. It’s not unusual to see chalk drawings on the sidewalk, kids selling lemonade in summer, or neighbors sharing gardening tips and extra tomatoes from raised beds. You’ll often find families and young professionals mingling at local gatherings or volunteering for the Commons & Bests Neighborhood Association events.
*“We moved here for the schools, but we stay for the people,”* says one long-time resident, a sentiment echoed by many.
Types of Housing: Historic Character Meets Modern Comfort
Commons & Bests is rich in architectural variety. The neighborhood’s signature vibe comes from its blend of:
- Classic Chicago-style two-flats and sturdy brick bungalows, especially near Best Avenue and Hull Terrace.
- Early 20th-century single-family homes, lovingly restored on Elmwood Avenue with colorful gardens out front.
- Townhomes and smaller apartment buildings, particularly along Ridge Avenue, offering more affordable options for renters and new buyers.
Original details like hardwood floors, leaded glass, and inviting front porches tell the story of generations who’ve lived here and cared for their homes. The yards tend to be a bit larger than those closer to the lakefront, giving kids more room to play and gardens plenty of sunlight.
Walkability: Everything Within Reach
One of Commons & Bests’ major draws is its walkability. Everyday errands don’t require a car:
- The Main-Dempster Mile, with its mix of coffee shops, like Brothers K Coffeehouse, bakeries, and local grocers, is only a short stroll away.
- Commuters love the easy walk to both the Main Street Metra and CTA Purple Line stations, making travel to downtown Chicago a breeze.
- Biking is popular, with safe routes leading to the Evanston Public Library on Chicago Avenue and the bustling shops near Greenwood and Ridge.
Tree-lined sidewalks and frequent crosswalks mean it’s safe and pleasant to walk, whether you’re heading to work, browsing Saturday morning farmers’ markets, or just out for a dog walk.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families flock to Commons & Bests for its reputable public schools and a nurturing environment for kids. Dawes Elementary and Chute Middle School are close by, both known for attentive teachers and a strong sense of community. There are also several parks and after-school programs within a 10-minute walk, making it easy for working families to manage pickup and drop-off routines.
Kids ride bikes to school, join Little League games at nearby Ingraham Park, or spend afternoons at playdates in the safe, quiet yards and courts that dot the neighborhood.
Parks and Green Spaces
One of Commons & Bests’ most beloved aspects is its proximity to excellent parks and green spaces:
- Ingraham Park: Located just south of the bustling Civic Center, it’s an oasis with a playground, basketball courts, and picnic areas—perfect for impromptu weekend gatherings.
- Ridgeville Park District’s Triangle Park: A safe haven for younger kids, featuring a sunny playground, open lawns for tumbling, and seasonal events like outdoor yoga and family movie nights.
- The leafy pathways of the Washington Street corridor connect walkers and runners to larger green spaces and the idyllic bike-friendly routes leading east toward Lake Michigan’s beaches.
With trees arching overhead and birdsong in the air, Commons & Bests residents prize these green sanctuaries for relaxation and recreation alike.
Safety: Peace of Mind in a Quiet Community
Safety is a top priority for those with families and late-night commuters. Commons & Bests is considered one of the quieter residential pockets in Evanston, with neighbors looking out for each other and a strong relationship with the Evanston Police Department. Crime rates are low for the area, and block clubs coordinate regular check-ins and seasonal safety meetings.
After dusk, it’s common to see joggers and dog-walkers out, and porch lights twinkle on streets like Oakton and Seward, adding a reassuring sense of community watchfulness.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
While Commons & Bests feels like its own peaceful retreat, you’re never far from urban conveniences:
- Downtown Evanston, with its movie theaters, acclaimed restaurants like Peckish Pig, and boutique shopping, is just a five-minute drive or a quick bike ride up Ridge Avenue.
- Northwestern University and Evanston Hospital are a 10-minute commute for those who work or study there.
- For those commuting into Chicago, the dual access to Metra and CTA rail lines provides flexibility and quick connections to the Loop and the North Shore.
This location makes the neighborhood especially attractive to professionals wanting access to city amenities without sacrificing tranquility.
What Residents Love Most
If you ask anyone why they love Commons & Bests, you’ll get a mosaic of responses:
- “The neighborhood potlucks and how everyone brings something to share.”
- “Saturday mornings running into friends at the farmer’s market or Ridgeville Park’s events.”
- “The sense of safety, and knowing my kids can bike to school with neighbors.”
- “Proximity to everything—schools, parks, the train. We rarely need our car.”
At its heart, Commons & Bests embodies the classic Evanston spirit: progressive, engaged, safe, and neighborly. Whether it’s the heritage architecture, the walkable convenience, or the community bonds, residents find themselves grateful to call this gem of a neighborhood home.
Thinking of making the move? Take a stroll down Wesley Avenue beneath the canopy of old-growth trees, or visit the community garden on Greenwood. Chances are, you’ll fall in love with Commons & Bests—and maybe see yourself living here, too.