Avalon Park is Chicago community area #45, a South Side residential community between 76th and 87th streets. It is known for brick bungalows, homeownership rates above 70 percent, and the Marynook subdivision. CMAP estimates its population at 9,024 (2020–2024 ACS).
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Community area number | 45 |
| Side of the city | South Side |
| Population (2020–2024 ACS estimate, CMAP) | 9,024 |
| Neighborhoods within | Avalon Park, Marynook, Stony Island Park |
| Main Metra stations | Metra Electric 83rd St. (Avalon Park), on the western edge |
| Major parks | Avalon Park |
Boundaries
Avalon Park runs from 76th Street on the north to 87th Street on the south, with South Chicago Avenue on the east. Chatham is to the west and Calumet Heights to the south.
Neighborhoods within Avalon Park
- Avalon Park, the original northern settlement.
- Marynook.
- Stony Island Park.
History
Swampy ground slowed settlement until the late 1880s, when German and Irish railroad workers built in the northern section. Annexation in 1889, the 1893 fair and drainage installed in 1900 brought growth. The area was informally called “Pennytown” until 1910, when it was officially renamed Avalon Park.
Single-family building peaked from 1900 to 1910, with more booms in the 1920s and after World War II. By 1930, 19 percent of residents were of Swedish origin. Middle-class African American families began moving in during the 1960s, and population peaked at 14,412 in 1970.
Landmarks and parks
- Avalon Park, the park that gave the community its name.
- Avalon Park Community Church, founded in 1896.
- Muhammad Ali’s former home at 8500 S. Jeffery Avenue.
- Shopping around 79th Street and Stony Island Avenue.
Getting there
Metra Electric’s 83rd St. (Avalon Park) station is the closest rail stop. Red Line stations in Chatham, at 79th and 87th, are to the west.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called Avalon Park?
The area was renamed Avalon Park in 1910; before that it was informally known as “Pennytown.”
Did Muhammad Ali live in Avalon Park?
Yes. His former home is at 8500 S. Jeffery Avenue.
Is Avalon Park mostly homeowners?
Yes. Owner-occupancy has stayed above 70 percent in recent decades.
How many people live in Avalon Park?
CMAP estimates 9,024 residents (2020–2024 ACS).
Related guides
- Chatham (#44) community area guide
- South Chicago (#46) community area guide
- Burnside (#47) community area guide
- Calumet Heights (#48) community area guide
- South Shore (#43) community area guide
- Metra guide
- All 77 Chicago community areas
Sources
- CMAP Community Data Snapshot: Avalon Park (June 2026 release)
- Encyclopedia of Chicago: Avalon Park
- Wikipedia: Avalon Park, Chicago
- Wikipedia: Chatham, Chicago
Last updated: October 31, 2026