Chicago: Hermosa Neighborhood

[Art Maydan]

I'm considering a 2-flat at Wrightwood and Kostner in Hermosa to house hack. I'm seeing mixed information on the safety of the area. Is anyone familiar? Would you feel comfortable living here?

[John Casmon]

@Art Maydan I own an 8-unit bldg in Hermosa, and I'd consider it a C to C+ area. It's a primarily Hispanic area (more than 80% of population), lots of blue collar families, somewhat quiet and nondescript.  There are some gangs and crime, but this is true all over the city (even in Lincoln Park). There is hope of appreciation from being close to Logan Square, but I wouldn't bet on it. If it happens at all, treat it as a bonus. 

With all of that said, the specific corner you mentioned (Wrightwood and Kostner) seems to have a lot of violent crime activity. If you're seriously considering this property, you should reach out to the police precinct and confirm if they see violent gang activity in the area. I would not be comfortable living at the intersection you mentioned, but other pockets of the neighborhood see less crime. Below is a screengrab from Trulia's crimemap and you can see Wrightwood and Kostner is near the center of the violent activity.