Archer Heights is Chicago community area #57, a small Southwest Side area between the Stevenson Expressway and the Orange Line. It is named for canal commissioner William B. Archer and is known for its Polish parishes, Curie High School and the Pulaski Orange Line station. About 13,400 people live there.
Archer Heights key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Community area number | #57 of 77 |
| Side of the city | Southwest Side |
| Population | 13,414 (2020–2024 American Community Survey five-year estimate, CMAP Community Data Snapshot, June 2026 release) |
| Neighborhoods within | Archer Heights |
| Main L and Metra stations | CTA Orange Line: Pulaski (Pulaski Road and 51st Street) |
| Major parks | Curie Park, Archer Park, Irma C. Ruiz Park, Kujawa Park |
Boundaries
The Stevenson Expressway forms the north edge and the CTA Orange Line forms the south edge. The Corwith rail yard is on the east, and rail tracks and Knox Avenue are on the west.
Neighborhoods within Archer Heights
Archer Heights is a single neighborhood that shares its name with the community area. Archer Avenue, which follows a former Native American trail, runs through it.
History
- The name honors William B. Archer, an Illinois and Michigan Canal commissioner and land speculator.
- 1900: speculators begin developing the southern sections for housing.
- 1925 and 1938: St. Bruno’s and St. Richard’s parishes are founded, helping the area grow.
- 1938: the Archer Heights Civic Association forms.
- 1993: the Orange Line opens, linking the Southwest Side to downtown.
Landmarks and parks
- Curie Metropolitan High School.
- Archer Heights Public Library, 5055 S. Archer Ave.
- Curie Park, Archer Park (field house opened in 1970), Irma C. Ruiz Park and Kujawa Park.
- St. Bruno and St. Richard Catholic parishes.
Getting there
The Orange Line’s Pulaski station, at Pulaski Road and 51st Street near Archer Avenue, serves the area. The Stevenson Expressway (I-55) runs along the north edge.
Frequently asked questions
What community area number is Archer Heights?
Archer Heights is community area #57.
What L station serves Archer Heights?
The Orange Line’s Pulaski station, at Pulaski Road and 51st Street.
Who is Archer Heights named after?
William B. Archer, a commissioner of the Illinois and Michigan Canal.
How far is Archer Heights from Midway Airport?
Midway is the next Orange Line stop after Pulaski, so the airport is one train stop from Archer Heights.
Related guides
- Brighton Park community area guide
- West Elsdon community area guide
- Garfield Ridge community area guide
- CTA Orange Line guide
- All 77 Chicago community areas
Sources
- CMAP Community Data Snapshot: Archer Heights (June 2026)
- Wikipedia: Archer Heights, Chicago
- CTA: Orange Line
Last updated: October 31, 2026