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  • Writer's pictureMichelle Mathena
    • Jul 9, 2023
    • 7 min read

Moving to Dunning Chicago, IL Neighborhood Guide

Updated: Oct 29, 2023


Moving to Dunning Chicago, IL Neighborhood Guide

Step into the vibrant neighborhood of Dunning, nestled on Chicago's northwest side! As a seasoned Dunning moving company, we've witnessed countless families and individuals embark on their exciting journey to this remarkable area. The neighborhood boasts a diverse housing landscape, from charming single-family homes to convenient apartments and multi-unit buildings. With tree-lined streets, well-maintained properties, and a strong sense of community, Dunning exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. Residents here enjoy the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. You'll find a variety of local amenities, including nearby shopping centers, parks, and access to major transportation routes. Whether you're seeking a close-knit community, quality housing options, or proximity to both nature and city attractions, Dunning has it all. As you embark on your move to Dunning, get ready to immerse yourself in a welcoming neighborhood that truly feels like home.


Dunning History and Overview


The Dunning neighborhood in Chicago has a fascinating history, with notable elements tied to its former use as a site for a poor house, infirmary, and insane asylum established in the mid 1800s.


After the civil war Andrew Dunning purchased land south of the health facility to start a village, but its closeness to the mental health facility kept people from wanting to move there. In 1882 a train line known as "The Crazy Train" was extended to bring patients, medicine, and supplies to the facility. After the station was named Dunning, the facility became known as Dunning.


During the early 20th century, Dunning saw further development and urbanization. The Dunning facilities were gradually phased out. The site was later transformed into the Chicago-Read Mental Health Center, which continues to provide psychiatric services and treatment to this day.


Today, Dunning is primarily a residential neighborhood known for its quiet streets, green spaces, and proximity to amenities in nearby neighborhoods. The area's history is remembered through the preservation of certain buildings and the recognition of its role in the evolution of mental health care in Chicago.


What is it Like to Live in Dunning?


Dunning offers a variety of housing options to accommodate different preferences and needs. Dunning primarily consists of single-family homes, which vary in size and style including bungalows, ranch-style houses, and two-story residences. Many of the homes have large lot sizes and backyards. There are also multi-unit buildings, and apartments in the area.


  • According to Redfin, as of September 2023, the average Dunning home price is $350K, up 9% compared to last year.

  • Rentcafe states that the average Dunning apartment rent is $1,778 which is 20% lower than the Chicago average rent of $2,215.

  • 22.8% of Dunning residents are renters while 77.2% are homeowners.

  • Dunning has a Walk Score of 73 making it very walkable. Its Transit Score is 52 and Bike Score is 67.

  • According to Niche, Dunning is the 49th best neighborhood for young professionals and the 45th best neighborhood to raise a family in Chicago. Its overall Niche grade is B+.

  • The population of Dunning is 43,147 per the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning.

  • The median age is 42.7.

  • The median household income is $74,526.


Dunning Chicago Location


Dunning is located 10 miles northwest side of downtown Chicago. It is both a neighborhood and community area divided into the smaller neighborhoods of Belmont Heights, Belmont Terrace, the neighborhood of Dunning itself, Irving Woods, and Schorsch Village. Nearby Chicago neighborhoods include Belmont Cragin, Montclare, and Portage Park. Nearby villages include Elmwood Park, Harwood Heights, Norridge, and River Grove.


The approximate boundaries of Dunning are the Northern boundary 4400 North and 4000 North (Montrose Avenue, Irving Park Road and Forest Preserve Drive), the Southern boundary mostly 3200 North (Belmont Avenue), the Western boundary primarily 8400 West (Cumberland Avenue), and the Eastern boundary 6000 West and 6400 West (Austin and Narragansett). The Dunning zip code is 60634.


Dunning is rated B by Niche for commute and has good transit with a Transit Score of 52. Dunning is near the Kennedy Expressway and only 15 minutes from O'Hare International Airport. There are several bus stops located within Dunning. The CTA Blue Line has a stop not far from Dunning at 5500 N. Harlem Ave. The Metra Milwaukee District West has several close stops just outside of Dunning. To downtown Chicago, it takes approximately 40 minutes by car and 1 hour by bus and the Blue Line.


Map of Dunning, Chicago


Dunning Restaurants


With a diverse culinary landscape reflecting its heritage, Dunning offers a delightful range of restaurants to tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in the warmth of Italian trattorias serving up authentic pasta dishes like creamy carbonara, mouthwatering pizzas straight from the brick oven, and delectable tiramisu for dessert. For those craving Eastern European comfort food, eateries in Dunning present a tempting array of pierogi filled with savory goodness, hearty bowls of borscht, and succulent goulash that will warm your soul. From casual eateries and fast-food chains to beloved mom-and-pop establishments, there are choices for everyone.


Homemade Italian food with a focus on fresh pasta. BYOB.



Cuban sandwiches. They're particularly known for their steak sandwich.



Czech restaurant featuring specialties such as beef goulash and Czech roast beef. They also feature a selection of Czech liqueurs and beer.


Cafe featuring their famous cheesecake and a coffee bar.



Specializes in traditional Neapolitan-style pizza prepared in a wood-fired brick oven along with Italian-inspired appetizers, salads, and other items. Their drink list highlights Italian wines, beers, cocktails, and sparkling waters. The dessert list features Italian favorites such as cannoli and tiramisu, as well as Italian after dinner liqueurs.



Polish buffet offering a wide range of options that showcase the flavors and culinary traditions of Poland. You can expect to find hearty dishes such as pierogi, potato pancakes, kielbasa, sauerkraut, and more.


Authentic Columbian food featuring Columbian steakhouse favorites such as empanadas, bandeja paisa, and churrasco along with cocktails.



Dunning Bars


Dunning offers a variety of cozy neighborhood bars many of which feature food and outdoor patios.


Neighborhood favorite featuring locally brewed beers, craft cocktails, and homemade bar food.



Casual neighborhood bar with craft beer, cocktails, and bar food. Large outdoor patio.


Sports bar featuring an outdoor patio, craft beer, cocktails, and food such as burgers, wings, and pierogis.


Dunning Coffee and Tea Shops



Bubble tea shop featuring a variety of milk and fruit teas.



Places to Shop in Dunning


Within the Dunning neighborhood itself, there are smaller strip malls and shopping plazas that offer convenience stores, grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential services. Additionally, there are numerous neighborhood stores and businesses scattered throughout Dunning. There are also several larger shopping complexes located close to Dunning.


Dunning Square

Strip mall including T.J. Maxx and Skechers Warehouse Outlet.


Large shopping mall. Larger stores include Target, Best Buy, and Kohl's.


The Brickyard

Large shopping complex. Larger retailers include Target and Lowes.


Outdoor Activities in Dunning


Dunning offers several neighborhood parks for residents to enjoy. Additionally there are several other outdoor activities located just outside of Dunning. Schiller Woods, located to the east, is a forest preserve that features fishing, picnic areas, open spaces for outdoor enjoyment, and the Indian Boundary Golf Course. The Des Plaines River Trail also runs through the preserve.


Park featuring a fitness center, sports fields, playground, and a water spray feature.


Park featuring a fieldhouse, several small walking trails, softball fields, a playground, and spray pool.


Park comprised of prairies, wetlands, and woodlands with .8 miles of walking trails.


Park featuring sports fields, a playground, a walking trail, a fitness center, and an indoor swimming pool.


Dunning Grocery Stores


Joseph's Finest Meats



Italian deli offering a variety of Italian meats, homemade sausage, cheeses, and antipasti. They serve made-to-order sandwiches and subs using their quality deli ingredients.



Gyms in Dunning




Dunning Dry Cleaning


Roosevelt Cleaners

Dunning Post Office



As you conclude this neighborhood guide to Dunning, Chicago IL, we hope you're feeling inspired and excited about the possibilities that await you in this remarkable Chicago gem. When the time comes to embark on your moving journey, our Dunning Movers are here to make your transition seamless and stress-free. Call Under One Roof today at 773-472-5784 for a free moving estimate.


Blog authored by Michelle Mathena, President of Under One Roof, a local moving company in Chicago. Michelle has over 20 years of experience in the moving industry. Under One Roof has had thousands of satisfied customers since 1982.





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