North Park is Community Area #13 on Chicago’s Far North Side, a quiet area named for North Park University. It is also home to Northeastern Illinois University and the North Park Village Nature Center. The 2020 Census counted 17,559 residents.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Community area number | 13 |
| Side of the city | Far North Side |
| Population (2020 Census) | 17,559 |
| Neighborhoods within | North Park, Hollywood Park, River’s Edge, Brynford Park, Sauganash Woods |
| Main L and Metra stations | No L or Metra stations; Brown Line terminal at Kimball is the closest L stop |
| Major parks and open space | North Park Village Nature Center, LaBagh Woods |
Where North Park is and its boundaries
North Park sits on the Far North Side between the North Shore Channel and Cicero Avenue.
Devon Avenue forms its northern edge and the North Branch of the Chicago River and Foster Avenue the southern edge. The North Shore Channel is the eastern edge and Cicero Avenue the western edge.
Neighborhoods within North Park
Neighborhoods include North Park, Hollywood Park, River’s Edge and Brynford Park. North Park Village combines housing, park space and a nature center.
The area was originally a Swedish community and later became a stronghold of Orthodox Jewish families. Asian residents made up about 32 percent of the population in 2023.
A short history
- The land was part of Jefferson Township, which Chicago annexed in 1889.
- North Park University built its Old Main building on Foster Avenue in 1894, and the community area takes its name from the school.
- Northeastern Illinois University’s campus opened in 1961.
Landmarks and parks
- North Park University and its Old Main
- Northeastern Illinois University
- North Park Village Nature Center
- WTTW’s Chicago production center
- LaBagh Woods forest preserve
Getting there
North Park has no L station. The Brown Line’s Kimball terminal in Albany Park is the closest L stop.
CTA buses serve the area’s main streets.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called North Park?
The community area is named for North Park University, which built its Old Main building here in 1894.
What universities are in North Park?
North Park University and Northeastern Illinois University.
Is there an L stop in North Park?
No. The nearest L stop is the Brown Line’s Kimball terminal in Albany Park.
What side of Chicago is North Park on?
The Far North Side.
Related guides
- Forest Glen (Community Area #12)
- Albany Park (Community Area #14)
- West Ridge (Community Area #2)
- Lincoln Square (Community Area #4)
- Chicago’s 77 community areas, explained
- Chicago neighborhoods hub
- Brown Line guide
Sources
- Wikipedia: North Park, Chicago
- Dominican University Government Data: Chicago community areas by side
Last updated: October 31, 2026