Why Chicago’s Newlyweds Are Flocking to Lincoln Square

If you ask around at the corner cafes and bustling farmers markets of Lincoln Square, you’ll hear a familiar story: young couples, fresh from the altar, trading in high-rise anonymity for a neighborhood that feels like home. As of June 2025, Lincoln Square’s population sits just over 42,000, with a median age of 36 - a sweet spot for newlyweds looking to build a future.

The draw? Start with the numbers. The median household income is a solid $96,582, and nearly 70% of residents speak English at home, with a healthy mix of Spanish and other languages adding to the neighborhood’s flavor. Education levels are high - 28% hold a master’s degree or above, double the national average - making for a community that values learning and upward mobility.

But stats only tell part of the story. Lincoln Square’s diversity stands out: about 61% White, 20% Hispanic, 10% Asian, and a blend of other backgrounds, all coexisting in a neighborhood that’s earned an “A” for diversity. Around 63% of residents say there’s a strong sense of community, and 75% agree that LGBTQ+ neighbors are treated equally, making it a welcoming place for all kinds of families.

For newlyweds, the appeal is practical, too. The average household size is just over two, and the housing stock offers everything from a tiny condo to smart 2-flats. The area’s walkability, access to parks like Winnemac, and lively local businesses mean you can have a backyard barbecue one night and catch live music the next.

Sure, parking can be a headache on a few weekends a year if you don’t have a garage, but most agree it’s a small price to pay for a neighborhood where you’re encouraged to get to know your neighbors and actually put down roots.

In a city known for its neighborhoods, Lincoln Square stands out as a place where newlyweds can build not just a home, but a life—one block party, school fundraiser, and lazy Sunday at a time.