Lakewood Balmoral: A Historic and Picturesque Neighborhood in Chicago

Lakewood Balmoral: A Historic and Picturesque Neighborhood in Chicago

Nestled within the vibrant Edgewater community on Chicago’s North Side, Lakewood Balmoral is a historic district renowned for its architectural charm, tree-lined streets, and strong community spirit. Known as one of the most intact historic neighborhoods in Chicago, Lakewood Balmoral offers a unique blend of old-world elegance and modern urban living. With excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a thriving real estate market, this neighborhood is a top choice for families, professionals, and history enthusiasts alike.

A Neighborhood with Historic Charm

Lakewood Balmoral was developed in the late 19th century by John Lewis Cochran, the visionary behind much of Edgewater’s growth. Designed as a more modest alternative to the lakefront mansions just half a mile to the east, the neighborhood was marketed to middle-class families seeking spacious homes on wide lots. Its streets are named after locations significant to Cochran’s life, such as Balmoral Castle in Scotland and Berwyn Avenue in Philadelphia.

In 1999, Lakewood Balmoral was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its rich architectural diversity. The neighborhood showcases stunning examples of Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Arts & Crafts, and Prairie-style homes, along with American Four-Square designs. Many of these historic homes have been lovingly restored by residents who take pride in preserving the neighborhood’s character.

Schools in Lakewood Balmoral

Families are drawn to Lakewood Balmoral for its proximity to some of Chicago’s top-rated public and private schools:

  • Helen C. Peirce School of International Studies (PreK–8)
    • Offers a globally focused International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
    • Known for its enriched curriculum and modern facilities.
  • Nicholas Senn High School (9–12)
    • Features an IB program and specialized tracks in arts and technology.
    • Provides a seamless K–12 IB education pathway when paired with Peirce School.
  • Sacred Heart Schools
    • A private Catholic school offering rigorous academics and faith-based education for PreK–8 students.
  • Rogers Park Montessori School
    • A highly regarded private school emphasizing hands-on learning and child-centered education.

These schools reflect Lakewood Balmoral’s commitment to academic excellence, making it an ideal neighborhood for families.

Parks and Recreation

Lakewood Balmoral benefits from its proximity to several parks and green spaces that enhance residents’ quality of life:

  • Andersonville Park
    • A nearby community park featuring playgrounds, sports courts, and open green spaces perfect for family outings.
  • Lakefront Trail & Beaches
    • Just a short walk or bike ride away, residents can enjoy access to Foster Beach and Kathy Osterman Beach for swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking.
  • Berger Park Cultural Center
    • Located along the lakefront, this park offers art classes, community events, and scenic views of Lake Michigan.

These outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and connection with nature.

Dining and Shopping

Lakewood Balmoral residents enjoy easy access to Andersonville’s bustling commercial district along Clark Street, which is just a short walk away. Highlights include:

  • Eclectic Dining Options: From French bistros like La Colombe to Thai favorites like Jin Thai Cuisine.
  • Boutique Shopping: Unique stores like Kate the Great’s Books for rare finds or Foursided for quirky gifts.
  • Farmers' Markets: Seasonal markets offering fresh produce and artisanal goods.

The neighborhood also hosts annual events like the Lakewood-Balmoral Colossal Neighborhood Garage Sale and the Garden Walk, which showcase its vibrant community spirit.

Real Estate Market in Lakewood Balmoral

The real estate market in Lakewood Balmoral remains strong due to its historic charm and desirable location:

  • Median Home Price: $615K (as of early 2025), with homes ranging from $895K to over $2M depending on size and restoration.
  • Housing Stock: Primarily composed of single-family homes on wide lots, along with vintage two- and three-flats that offer rental income potential.
  • Many properties qualify for tax incentives through preservation programs aimed at maintaining their historic integrity.

With rising property values and increasing demand from buyers seeking historic homes in a walkable urban setting, Lakewood Balmoral presents excellent opportunities for homeowners and investors alike.

Transportation

Lakewood Balmoral offers convenient transportation options:

  • The CTA Red Line stops at Bryn Mawr and Berwyn stations provide quick access to downtown Chicago.
  • Major bus routes run along Broadway Street and Clark Street.
  • Proximity to Lake Shore Drive makes commuting by car both scenic and efficient.

Community Spirit

The heart of Lakewood Balmoral lies in its strong sense of community. The neighborhood is home to the active Lakewood-Balmoral Residents’ Council (LBRC), which organizes events such as:

  • Winter/Spring Socials
  • Ice Cream Socials
  • Community Yard Sales
  • The Harvest Moon Festival

These activities foster connections among neighbors while celebrating the area’s unique history.

How I Can Help You in Lakewood Balmoral

Whether you’re buying your dream home, selling your property for top dollar, or investing in this historic neighborhood, I’m here to guide you every step of the way:

For Buyers

  • Access to exclusive listings tailored to your needs.
  • Expertise in navigating competitive markets like Lakewood Balmoral.
  • Negotiation support to secure the best deal possible.

For Sellers

  • Accurate pricing strategies based on current market trends.
  • Professional marketing campaigns using photography, online advertising, and local outreach.
  • Expert negotiation skills to maximize your sale price while ensuring a smooth transaction process.

For Investors

  • Insights into Lakewood Balmoral’s growing real estate market.
  • Property evaluations focused on long-term ROI through rental income or appreciation potential.
  • Connections with contractors experienced in restoring historic properties.

Why Choose Lakewood Balmoral?

Lakewood Balmoral offers an unbeatable combination of historic charm, modern amenities, excellent schools like Helen C. Peirce School of International Studies, beautiful parks such as Andersonville Park, vibrant dining options along Clark Street, and a thriving real estate market. Its rich history as one of Chicago’s most intact historic neighborhoods makes it an extraordinary place to call home or invest.

Are you ready to make Lakewood Balmoral your next destination? Contact me today! Let me help you navigate this dynamic real estate market while finding the perfect property that meets your goals.

Back to blog

Contact form