Doing Business Here

Downtown Evanston is a great place to locate your business!

A solid infrastructure, including an exceptional public transportation system, a diverse community, and a commitment to economic development are just some of many reasons why businesses continue to succeed in Evanston.

Bordering Chicago on the shores of Lake Michigan, the city of Evanston is a vibrant community and home to historic mansions, tree-lined bicycle paths, beautiful parks, world-renowned Northwestern University, Rotary International World Headquarters and the Technology Innovation Center. Evanston is the first suburb north of Chicago, with the downtown reflecting all of its best attributes: social and economic diversity, unique urban amenities and location just steps from the lakefront.

Downtown Evanston is the commercial center for Chicago's North Shore, with one-of-a-kind shops, diverse entertainment, incredible restaurants, offices and condominiums. The area has experienced unprecedented development and redevelopment within the last decade. New developments have included residential and retail components, resulting in the construction of nearly 1,200 new condominium units since 2000.  In addition, the downtown remains an office center, employing over 10,000 people.

Businesses are provided support by Downtown Evanston (Evmark), which manages and markets the downtown district of Evanston. And since its creation, Downtown Evanston has worked closely with the City of Evanston, downtown property owners, local real estate professionals and other stakeholders to ensure a healthy mix of retail uses. To recruit and retain over 300 ground floor businesses and the many office tenants in downtown’s successful mix, current vacancies are available here. In addition, the Evanston Chamber of Commerce provides leadership and services for its more than 700 members who represent the diverse economy of Evanston.

Evanston is easily accessible by both Chicago's elevated train system and the Metra commuter rail system, and offers convenient parking throughout the district. Evanston is also just 30 minutes from O'Hare International Airport.

View a map of the Special Service Area #4 that defines Downtown Evanston.