📍 About AZO & Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO) is located just southeast of downtown Kalamazoo. Known for its mix of college-town energy, art and craft culture, and affordable living, the area offers a great quality of life with access to outdoor recreation and a vibrant community.
🏡 Where to Live
- Kalamazoo – Walkable downtown, bars, arts, and Western Michigan University.
- Portage – Family-friendly, strong schools, quiet suburban feel.
- Texas Township – Upscale neighborhoods and newer developments.
- Oshtemo Township – Affordable with rural and suburban mix.
🚗 Commute Times to AZO Tower
- 5–15 min: Portage, Oshtemo Township, central Kalamazoo
- 15–30 min: Texas Township, Schoolcraft, Vicksburg
🎓 Top School Districts
- Kalamazoo Public Schools – Home of the Kalamazoo Promise (free college tuition)
- Portage Public Schools – Highly rated, especially for families
- Mattawan Schools – A-rated suburban district
🧳 Things to Do – Year-Round
- Outdoors: Hiking at Asylum Lake Preserve, biking the Kal-Haven Trail, boating at Gull Lake
- Winter: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and nearby downhill options
- Breweries: Bell’s Brewery, One Well Brewing
- Culture: Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, concerts, Western Michigan University sports
- Day Trips: Lake Michigan beaches (~1 hour), Chicago (~2 hours by Amtrak)
✈️ Nearby Airports
- AZO – Kalamazoo/Battle Creek Int’l: Regional flights, Delta and American service
- GRR – Grand Rapids: ~1 hour – more flight options
- ORD – Chicago O'Hare: ~2.5 hours – international hub
💰 Cost of Living
- Home Prices: Median home in Kalamazoo ~$225,000
- Rent: 1-bedroom apartment ~$1,000/month
- Taxes: Michigan state income tax is 4.25%
- Gas: ~$3.50/gallon
- Utilities: ~$150–$200/month
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Shifts: Expect rotations including mids — having a short commute helps
- Community: AZO is small and tight-knit — good for new controllers
- Training: Tower-only facility with opportunities to mentor and be mentored
📦 Moving Tips
- Winter-ready: Snow tires and good boots are helpful
- Move-in months: March–May and July–September
- College Town: Plan ahead — university schedule affects rental market
❓ FAQs
- Is Kalamazoo affordable?
Yes, very affordable compared to national averages - What’s the vibe?
Relaxed, community-oriented, with a college town energy - Can I live downtown?
Yes — downtown Kalamazoo is walkable and safe