A New Evanston Apartment Tower Is Finally Rising. Here's What's Coming Near Downtown
EVANSTON, IL—A new apartment tower is taking shape along Chicago Avenue, bringing another housing option to one of the North Shore's most walkable downtown districts.
The Legacy at 1621 Chicago Avenue has reached its third floor as of October 29, 2026, marking a major construction milestone for the 11-story, 110-apartment development.
Developed by Horizon Realty Group, the rental building is targeting fall 2027 completion, with apartments, street-level retail and residential amenities planned just blocks from Evanston's Metra and CTA stations.
For renters considering a move to the North Shore, the project offers a look at how Downtown Evanston continues to add housing near transit, restaurants, shopping and Lake Michigan.
What's Coming to The Legacy at 1621 Chicago Avenue?
Progress on The Legacy in Evanston has risen to the third floor. | Photo by Daniel Schell
The development will replace a former single-story commercial property with an 11-story building featuring a two-story podium and residential floors above.
The project includes:
110 rental apartments, including eight designated affordable units.
Studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans.
Approximately 6,800 square feet of commercial space at street level.
41 EV-capable parking spaces in an onsite garage.
Residential amenities including a fitness center, work lounge, golf simulator, bike storage, dog spa and run, and third-floor reflecting pool.
Private balconies and terraces in select apartments, with lake views available from some residences.
Pappageorge Haymes Partners designed the building, with Myefski Architects serving as architect of record.
The development combines modern apartment living with commercial space intended to keep Chicago Avenue active at street level.
Construction Has Reached the Third Floor. What Happens Next?
The Legacy has moved from foundation work into visible vertical construction.
The project received its final zoning approval for an updated design in July 2025. The revised plans reduced the building from 12 stories to 11 while retaining its 110 apartments.
Construction began in spring 2026. Crews completed major foundation work, including geothermal infrastructure, before erecting a tower crane and beginning the structure above ground.
As of October 29, work has reached the third floor, with the remaining residential floors still to rise.
The developer's current timeline anticipates:
Spring 2027: Pre-leasing is expected to begin.
Fall 2027: Targeted construction completion and initial occupancy.
These dates remain estimates and could change as construction progresses.
Why Downtown Evanston Is Attractive to North Shore Renters
Progress on The Legacy in Evanston has risen to the third floor. | Photo by Daniel Schell
One of The Legacy's strongest features is its location.
Situated along Chicago Avenue in Downtown Evanston, the building is approximately three blocks east of the Davis Street transit stations, connecting residents to Chicago and other North Shore communities.
Nearby transportation includes:
Metra Union Pacific North Line: Davis Street station provides commuter rail service toward Downtown Chicago and northern suburbs.
CTA Purple Line: Davis station offers service through Evanston and toward Howard, with express connections to Chicago's Loop during weekday rush periods.
Local bus connections: CTA and Pace routes provide additional options for traveling around Evanston and nearby communities.
Beyond transportation, residents would be within reach of Downtown Evanston's restaurants, cafes, shopping, entertainment and everyday services.
Northwestern University, Fountain Square and the Lake Michigan shoreline also contribute to the area's appeal for people who want urban conveniences without living in Downtown Chicago.
This combination of transit access, neighborhood amenities and lakefront proximity is particularly relevant for renters relocating from Chicago or other North Shore suburbs.
What Could Apartments at The Legacy Cost?
The developer has published preliminary rent estimates for 2027.
Anticipated monthly rents include:
Studios: Approximately $2,200.
One-bedroom apartments: Approximately $2,750.
Two-bedroom apartments: Approximately $3,800.
Three-bedroom apartments: Starting around $6,950.
These are projected rents, not confirmed leasing offers. Final pricing, availability, parking charges and lease terms may differ.
The development will also include eight affordable apartments, with eligibility and leasing handled through Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH).
Prospective renters interested in those units can review the developer's floor plans and affordable housing information.
What This Development Means for Evanston's Housing Market
The Legacy will add 110 rental homes to Downtown Evanston, expanding housing choices in a location already served by transit and established commercial businesses.
For prospective renters, the project introduces another option alongside existing apartments, condominium rentals and older multifamily buildings.
It may be especially appealing to people who prioritize newer amenities, transit access and the ability to complete many daily errands on foot.
For people considering buying rather than renting, the new development also highlights an important comparison.
Renting in a newer building may offer convenience and amenities, while purchasing an established Evanston condo can provide an ownership option with different financial responsibilities, including property taxes, HOA fees, maintenance and potential assessments.
The development's direct impact will be additional rental supply and street-level commercial space. Its effect on surrounding home values or rental prices cannot be assumed.
Explore Evanston and North Shore Living With Local Guidance
Considering a move to Evanston, Skokie, Wilmette or another North Shore community?
From Downtown Evanston rentals to established condos and suburban homes, choosing the right location involves more than comparing floor plans and prices.
The Cory Tanzer Group at Option Premier helps renters, buyers and relocation clients explore housing options across Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
Connect with our team to compare North Shore neighborhoods, understand local market conditions and find a home that fits your lifestyle and budget.
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