📍 About ABI & Abilene
Abilene Regional Airport (ABI) is located in west-central Texas and provides a low-key, affordable lifestyle ideal for air traffic controllers looking for a quieter pace. Abilene combines small-town warmth with city amenities and access to beautiful parks, affordable housing, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
🏡 Where to Live
Popular Neighborhoods – Singles & Couples
- Downtown Abilene – Historic charm, arts district, walkable.
- Elmwood – Affordable, established neighborhood close to shopping and parks.
- Sayles Boulevard – Historic homes and character-filled streets.
Best for Families
- Wylie – Top-rated schools, new homes, quiet and safe.
- Buffalo Gap – Small town feel with access to Abilene amenities.
- Tuscola – Rural atmosphere, highly rated Jim Ned schools.
🚗 Commute Times to ABI
- 5–15 min: Elmwood, Downtown, Wylie (North), Sayles Blvd
- 15–30 min: South Wylie, Buffalo Gap, Tuscola
🎓 Top School Districts
- Wylie ISD – Highly rated district serving south Abilene.
- Abilene ISD – Central city schools with STEM programs.
- Jim Ned CISD – Serving Tuscola area, well-regarded rural district.
🧳 Things to Do – Local & Regional
🌲 Outdoor Activities
- Abilene State Park – Hiking, camping, wildlife, and pool.
- Lake Fort Phantom Hill – Fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
- Buffalo Gap Historic Village – Local history and festivals.
🏛️ Indoor & Cultural
- Paramount Theatre – Classic films and live performances.
- The Grace Museum – Art, history, and family exhibits.
- Frontier Texas! – Interactive museum of western heritage.
✈️ Nearby Airports
- Abilene Regional Airport (ABI): On-site tower location with regional flights.
- DFW International: ~3 hours drive for major travel.
- Midland International Airport (MAF): ~2.5 hours west.
🧭 Helpful Resources for Newcomers
💰 Cost of Living
- Median home price: $185,000
- 1-bedroom rent: $800–$1,000/month
- Utilities: $140–$200/month
- Groceries: Below national average
- Gas: ~$3.10/gallon
🌆 Neighborhood Highlights
- Downtown Abilene: Revitalized, walkable, coffee shops and nightlife.
- Wylie: Quiet, newer development, great schools.
- Elmwood: Central, affordable, close to shopping.
☀️ Seasonal Weather
- Summer: Hot and dry (90s–100s°F)
- Winter: Mild with light freezes and rare snow
- Spring/Fall: Sunny, breezy, pleasant temperatures
🚇 Public Transportation & Traffic
- No rail – personal vehicle required
- Minimal traffic, short commutes throughout town
- Abilene CityLink buses available but limited routes
🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care
- Hendrick Health System – Main hospital in Abilene
- Abilene Regional Medical Center
- Urgent Care: My Urgent Care Clinic, NextCare
🫂 Social Life & Community
- Young professionals: Breweries, downtown events
- Families: Zoo, splash pads, rec centers, youth sports
- Community: Strong faith-based and volunteer networks
🍽️ Dining & Food Scene
- Perini Ranch, Vagabond Pizza, The Shed Market
- Abi-Haus, Cypress Street Station, Joe Allen’s BBQ
- Tex-Mex, BBQ, and Southern comfort food everywhere
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Shifts rotate — blackout curtains help a lot
- Weather moves fast — living close helps during storms
- Most controllers live in Wylie, Elmwood, or Downtown
📦 Moving Tips
- Summer moves are hot — hydrate and schedule early
- Rental inventory is good year-round
- Cost of living makes homeownership very accessible
❓ FAQs
- Is Abilene safe?
Yes — especially in Wylie and south-side neighborhoods. - Do I need a truck or SUV?
No — roads are well maintained. AWD not required. - Is there a nightlife scene?
Downtown offers breweries, concerts, and art walks.