Bronzeville, Chicago Neighborhood: 5 Things Homebuyers Need to Know

Located in Cook county on Chicago’s South Side, the Bronzeville neighborhood encompasses the area from Pershing Rd. in the north down to 31st St., and from the Dan Ryan Expressway over to King Drive in the east. Dubbed the Black Metropolis in the early 20th century, it is recognized as one of the most important urban landmarks in African-American history. Once known for its deteriorating and dangerous public housing projects built by the Chicago Housing Authority, including the infamous Robert Taylor Homes, the area experienced a renaissance in the late 1990’s when the projects were razed and new condominiums and apartments were built in their place. Many of the old Victorian era homes have been renovated and the area has recaptured much of its former glory. Bronzeville, Chicago is convenient to the city’s business district with easy access to anywhere in town, and with plenty of public transportation options. It is home to the Illinois Institute of Technology and the Illinois College of Optometry.

Bronzeville, Chicago Reputation

Today, Bronzeville is a magnet for young urban professionals and black entrepreneurs who are leading the revitalization of the area and the restoration of its historic landmarks. The history of the area has made it something of a tourist attraction, and the neighborhood has many new businesses, including cafes, coffeehouses, and quaint shops. The demographic trends young, but there are many families with children in this tight-knit community.

Hot Spots in Bronzeville, Chicago

The Wabash YMCA in Bronzeville is considered the first African-American facility of its kind in the United States, and is where the movement to preserve black history that led to the creation of Black History Month started. During the neighborhood’s heyday, many famous nightclubs operated here including the Dreamland Cafe and the Sunset Cafe, and some are being renovated and reopened, and are a big attraction for jazz and R&B aficionados. The DuSable Museum of African-American History is popular with visitors and residents alike.

Safety in Bronzeville, Chicago

Revitalization has extended down to the 47th St. area of Bronzeville, but below that there are still many open and vacant lots and a high crime rate. The neighborhood itself is pretty safe though. The area has an annual overall individual crime rate of 1.2 per 1,000 persons, lower than many neighborhoods in the city, but above the national average. President Obama is from Bronzeville, and the neighborhood feels a responsibility to maintain an image of safety and respectability, according to community leaders.

Convenience in Bronzeville, Chicago

The Chicago Transit Authority operates the Red and Green rail lines which serve the Bronzeville neighborhood, as does the Metra Electric District Main Line. Several bus routes run through the area, and the major artery of the Dan Ryan Expressway is just a few minutes’ drive away. Anywhere in the city of Chicago can be reached quickly and easily by public transit or by car.

Types of Homes in Bronzeville, Chicago

Due to the revitalization of Bronzeville, there are many newer condominiums available, as well as recently renovated single-family and multi-family late 19th and early 20th century homes. Both singles and families will find a place to call home in Bronzeville, Chicago.