Neighborhood Comparison
West Town vs Old Town
Across the six dimensions below, Old Town comes out ahead in more categories — but the cheaper or more amenity-rich option may still be the right fit depending on your priorities.
West Town
Chicago, IL
A diverse neighborhood featuring a mix of Polish heritage, Ukrainian Village charm, and emerging creative spaces. Great value with authentic neighborhood character.
Full West Town guide →Old Town
Chicago, IL
A historic neighborhood known for The Second City comedy club, Victorian architecture, and vibrant Wells Street dining scene. Perfect mix of charm and entertainment.
Full Old Town guide →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | West Town | Old Town | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Rent | $1,900 | $2,400 | West Town |
| Walkability | 9.1 / 10 | 6.1 / 10 | West Town |
| Transit Access | 7.9 / 10 | 9.5 / 10 | Old Town |
| Amenities | 8.3 / 10 | 9.1 / 10 | Old Town |
| Average Building Rating | 4.3 ★ | 4.5 ★ | Old Town |
| Resident Sentiment | 10.43 (267 reviews) | 11.06 (287 reviews) | Old Town |
Average Rent: West Town averages about $500 less per month — meaningful over a 12-month lease.
Walkability: West Town scores higher for daily-essentials walkability — groceries, coffee and dining within a short walk of most buildings.
Transit Access: Old Town has stronger transit access overall, with more frequent service and shorter walks to stops from most apartment buildings.
Amenities: Apartment buildings in Old Town tend to offer richer amenity packages — rooftops, coworking lounges and full fitness centers are more common.
Average Building Rating: Reviewed buildings in Old Town average higher resident ratings.
Resident Sentiment: Old Town has stronger overall resident sentiment when weighting ratings by review volume.
Which Should You Choose?
Budget-conscious renters
Pick West Town
Lower average asking rent and stronger value across studio and 1-bedroom inventory.
Browse West Town apartments →Car-free professionals
Pick Old Town
Better transit access shortens daily commutes and reduces reliance on rideshare.
Browse Old Town apartments →Walkability-first renters
Pick West Town
Higher density of groceries, coffee, dining and fitness within a 10-minute walk of most buildings.
Browse West Town apartments →Luxury & amenity seekers
Pick Old Town
Newer construction with richer amenity packages — rooftops, lounges and full fitness centers.
Browse Old Town apartments →Quality-of-living priority
Pick Old Town
Higher average resident ratings across reviewed buildings.
Browse Old Town apartments →