📍 About C90 & Elgin
Chicago TRACON (C90) is responsible for approach and departure control in one of the busiest airspaces in the country. Based in Elgin, Illinois, the area offers a blend of suburban comfort, historic charm, and access to Chicago’s metro area. Whether you're relocating solo or with a family, Elgin and its surrounding communities offer excellent housing, schools, and lifestyle options.
🏡 Where to Live
Best for Singles & Couples
- Downtown Elgin – Walkable, growing food scene, riverside living.
- Geneva – Charming, historic, boutique shopping and dining.
- West Dundee – Quaint downtown, coffee shops, breweries.
Best for Families
- South Elgin – Excellent schools, quiet suburban neighborhoods.
- Bartlett – Great parks, top-rated schools.
- St. Charles – Family-friendly with scenic riverwalk and strong schools.
🚗 Commute Times to C90 (Elgin)
- 5–15 min: Elgin, South Elgin, West Dundee
- 15–30 min: Bartlett, Geneva, St. Charles
- 30–45 min: Schaumburg, Aurora, Crystal Lake
🎓 Top School Districts
- School District U-46 (Elgin) – One of the largest districts in Illinois
- Bartlett Schools – Great ratings and parent reviews
- St. Charles CUSD 303 – Excellent academics and programs
🧳 Things to Do – Year-Round Within 2 Hours
🌳 Outdoor
- Fox River Trail – Biking, running, scenic views
- Lords Park – Zoo, museum, and nature
- Chain O’Lakes State Park – Camping, boating
🏛️ Indoor
- Grand Victoria Casino – Gaming & events
- Elgin Symphony Orchestra – Live performances
- Chicago – Museums, concerts, sports (1 hr drive)
✈️ Nearby Airports
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): ~35 min – major international hub
- Chicago Midway Airport (MDW): ~1 hour – Southwest hub
- DuPage Airport: General aviation
💰 Cost of Living
- Median home price in Elgin: ~$300,000
- 1-bedroom rent: $1,100–$1,500/month
- Utilities: $150–$250/month
- Gasoline: ~$3.80/gallon
- Groceries: Slightly above national average
🛡️ Crime & Safety
- Elgin is generally safe, especially west of the river and in South Elgin.
- Geneva, Bartlett, and St. Charles are known for low crime rates.
🚇 Transportation
- Metra Train – Elgin station provides direct route to Chicago
- Car recommended for daily life
- Traffic – manageable but busy during rush hour on I-90
🍽️ Dining & Social Scene
- Elgin Public House – Gastropub favorites
- Old Republic Kitchen + Bar – Great patio & live music
- Downtown Geneva: High-end dining, wine bars
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Training: Be ready for high-volume, complex ops
- Shifts: Expect rotating shifts with overnights
- Commute: Live close or near I-90 for quicker access
📦 Moving Tips
- Best seasons to move: Spring and summer
- Watch weather: Winters are snowy and icy — prep early
- Rental trucks: Reserve ahead, especially in PCS season
❓ FAQs
- Do I need AWD?
Highly recommended during winter months - How far is downtown Chicago?
~1 hour via Metra or car (non-rush hour) - Is Elgin good for kids?
Yes – parks, schools, and low cost of living make it family-friendly