Southport Avenue
Description
A Diverse and Upscale Hotspot Southport Avenue is a lively high street located in the northern part of urban Chicago. The street draws from several nearby affluent neighborhoods including North Center, Ravenswood, St. Ben’s, Roscoe Village and Lincoln Square, which all contribute to its diverse and upscale clientele. The area is particularly appealing to young professionals, families and high-income individuals, creating a vibrant mix of shoppers. The Southport Avenue Experience Proximity to Wrigley Field, located just to the east, enhances Southport’s allure, especially during summer months when Cubs home games and concerts significantly boost the local economy. Foot traffic varies from moderate during the weekdays to very high on weekends, reflecting its popularity as a shopping and dining mecca. The retail environment on Southport Avenue is defined by its moderate to high demand, with retail spaces typically commanding gross rents ranging from $100 to $150 per square foot. The vacancy rate is remarkably low, at under 5%, underscoring its appeal to retailers. A Diverse and Upscale Hotspot Southport Avenue is a lively high street located in the northern part of urban Chicago. The street draws from several nearby affluent neighborhoods including North Center, Ravenswood, St. Ben’s, Roscoe Village and Lincoln Square, which all contribute to its diverse and upscale clientele. The area is particularly appealing to young professionals, families and high-income individuals, creating a vibrant mix of shoppers. The Southport Avenue Experience Proximity to Wrigley Field, located just to the east, enhances Southport’s allure, especially during summer months when Cubs home games and concerts significantly boost the local economy. Foot traffic varies from ...Read more
Local Expert Analysis
Southport Avenue stands out as one of Chicago’s most reliable and robust high streets, maintaining a steady growth trajectory over the years. According to local experts, the street’s unique positioning as the northernmost high street in urban Chicago allows it to draw from several wealthy submarkets, making it a strategic choice for many retailers. While it may not be the top choice for flagship stores, Southport is still considered a prime location, especially for brands looking to establish their presence in the Chicago market. The tenant mix on Southport Avenue is a balanced combination of major national brands, such as Arc’teryx and Buck Mason, alongside unique local boutiques and popular eateries. This blend offers shoppers a well-rounded experience that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. Recent leasing activity has been described as very high, reflecting a growing interest from both established and emerging brands. With new tenants like Hotel Chocolat and Colectivo Coffee set to open, the street is poised for continued growth and increased leasing momentum over the next 12 months. Southport’s proximity to Wrigley Field is a critical factor in its success. While the high street benefits from increased foot traffic during Cubs games and concerts, it retains an independent identity that allows it to thrive year-round. Local experts point out that Southport Avenue has not seen its vacancy rate exceed 5% since 2015, a testament to its desirability and the steady demand for retail space. Looking forward, Southport Avenue is expected to maintain its status as one of Chicago’s most dependable retail corridors. The street’s evolution since the COVID-19 pandemic has been marked by moderate growth and development, with future trends indicating a continuation of this pattern. Seasonal events tied to the sports calendar at Wrigley Field will likely remain a key driver of foot traffic and sales, ensuring that Southport Avenue continues to be a vibrant and profitable location for retailers in Chicago.Southport Avenue stands out as one of Chicago’s most reliable and robust high streets, maintaining a steady growth trajectory over the years. According to local experts, the street’s unique positioning as the northernmost high street in urban Chicago allows it to draw from several wealthy submarkets, making it a strategic choice for many retailers. While it may not be the top choice for flagship stores, Southport is still considered a prime location, especially for brands looking to establish their presence in the Chicago market. The tenant mix on Southport Avenue is a balanced combination of major national brands, such as Arc’teryx and Buck Mason, alongside unique local boutiques and popul...Read more
