For frequent travelers and aviation professionals, living near a major airport isn’t just convenient—it’s a lifestyle enhancement. Proximity to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) translates to shorter commutes, reduced travel stress, and more time at home. However, balancing easy airport access with a comfortable, high-quality suburban life can be challenging. The goal is a quick trip to the terminal without sacrificing excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and desirable community amenities.
Fortunately, the areas surrounding Midway offer a collection of inviting suburbs that provide the best of both worlds. These communities boast a tranquil, residential atmosphere with robust amenities, all while being mere minutes from the airport terminals. This guide explores the premier Chicago suburbs near Midway, highlighting what makes each an ideal choice for both travelers and families.
La Grange, IL
Located just a few miles west of Midway, La Grange stands out as a highly popular and well-rounded suburb. It masterfully blends urban accessibility with suburban comfort, making it a top choice for home buyers who values a strong community alongside effortless airport access. The drive from most of La Grange to Midway Airport typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes, offering exceptional convenience for last-minute flights or late-night arrivals. The suburb is primarily served by La Grange Road and Ogden Avenue, arterial routes that provide a direct connection to the airport. Beyond convenient driving access, La Grange features a Metra station on the BNSF Line, ensuring reliable transit to downtown Chicago’s Union Station.
La Grange presents a diverse housing market, catering to various tastes and budgets. The area is renowned for its sturdy, historic homes and tree-lined streets, lending a classic, established feel to its neighborhoods. A good selection of newer constructions, as well as well-maintained apartment and condo complexes, are also available. Compared to suburbs further north or closer to the city, La Grange offers greater affordability, allowing homebuyers to secure more space for their investment.
Families are drawn to La Grange for its reputable school systems, including La Grange School District 102 and Lyons Township High School, along with several well-regarded private schools. The La Grange Park District is a significant asset, managing over 60 acres of parks, a public golf course, an ice arena, and multiple swimming pools. This dedication to recreation provides endless activities for residents of all ages.
Oak Lawn, IL
Oak Lawn is primarily served by Cicero and 95th Avenues, major thoroughfares that help make getting to and from Midway Airport a breeze without getting onto the highway. In addition to straightforward driving access, Oak Lawn boasts a Metra station on the SouthWest Service line, providing a dependable connection to downtown Chicago’s Union Station. Oak Lawn features a diverse housing market that accommodates various preferences and budgets. The area is recognized for its robust, post-war brick bungalows and ranch-style homes, which contribute to the classic, established ambiance of its neighborhoods. A healthy selection of split-level homes, newer constructions, and meticulously maintained apartment and condo complexes are also available. Relative to suburbs further north or closer to the city, Oak Lawn offers enhanced affordability, enabling homebuyers to acquire more living space for their money.
Prospective home buyers with kids are attracted to the Oak Lawn community due to its esteemed school systems, including Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 and Ridgeland School District 122. The area is also home to several respected private schools and the highly-rated Oak Lawn Community High School. The Oak Lawn Park District is a major highlight, overseeing over 300 acres of parks, a public golf course, an ice arena, and multiple swimming pools. This commitment to recreational facilities ensures abundant activities for residents across all age groups.
Burbank, IL
For those whose top priority is unparalleled proximity to Midway without residing within Chicago proper, Burbank is the answer. Sharing a border with the airport, this suburb offers an unrivaled commute for airline personnel and frequent travelers. It’s a pragmatic, unpretentious community that prides itself on affordability and convenience. From virtually any location in Burbank, you can reach the Midway terminal in under 10 minutes. This extreme closeness is a game-changer for individuals with early morning departures or unpredictable work schedules. The main artery, Cicero Avenue, runs directly along the airport’s eastern edge, providing a straight shot to the entrance.
Burbank’s housing stock largely comprises modest, single-family homes, predominantly brick ranches and bungalows constructed in the mid-20th century. This makes it a very accessible market for first-time homebuyers. The community is tight-knit and unassuming, characterized by a strong emphasis on local events and neighborhood pride. While lacking a traditional downtown, its commercial corridors along Cicero and Harlem Avenues provide ample shopping and dining options. Burbank is served by several school districts, including Burbank School District 111 and South Stickney School District 111, with Reavis High School serving the area. The Burbank Park District maintains numerous local parks and recreational facilities, offering programs and sports leagues for children and adults. The city’s dedication to community services makes it a solid choice for families seeking an affordable and convenient place to live.
Berwyn, IL
Located just west of Chicago, Berwyn is a dynamic and diverse suburb renowned for its historic bungalows and vibrant arts scene. It boasts a strategic location with effortless access to major expressways, public transportation, and downtown Chicago. A brief drive or train ride connects Berwyn to the Loop, making it a desirable spot for commuters. Its close proximity to I-290 and the Metra BNSF Railway ensures outstanding connectivity to the city and surrounding areas.
Berwyn is one of the most affordable suburbs near Chicago, featuring a real estate market with a mix of classic bungalows, single-family homes, and multi-unit buildings. This affordability appeals to buyers seeking budget-friendly options without compromising on proximity to the city or cultural amenities.
The suburb abounds with entertainment and recreational opportunities. Berwyn is home to a flourishing arts district, distinctive restaurants, and community events such as Berwyn’s Oktoberfest and historic home tours. Residents can also enjoy access to local parks and recreation facilities, perfect for outdoor activities and family outings. Families in Berwyn are served by local school districts, including Berwyn South School District 100 and Berwyn North School District 98. Its charming, community-focused atmosphere and convenient location make Berwyn a standout choice for those seeking affordable housing near Chicago.
Bridgeview, IL
A drive from Bridgeview to Midway Airport typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and its proximity to the I-294 Tollway and I-55 Expressway makes it particularly appealing for commuters. This “Crossroads of the Midwest” location provides exceptional connectivity not only to the airport but also to downtown Chicago, other parts of the Chicagoland area, and neighboring states.
Bridgeview ranks among the most budget-friendly suburbs in the region, offering a real estate market that includes a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums—often at price points lower than neighboring communities. This affordability makes it an attractive option for buyers looking to maximize their budget while remaining close to the city and airport.
The suburb also provides a wealth of amenities and entertainment options. Its most prominent landmark, SeatGeek Stadium, hosts professional sports and major concerts, injecting a unique energy into the community. Residents can also enjoy numerous parks and forest preserves, which offer green spaces for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Families in Bridgeview are served by local school districts, including Indian Springs School District 109 and Bridgeview School District 109.
Why Choose a Suburb Near Midway?
Living in suburbs like Oak Lawn, Burbank, or Bridgeview offers a unique set of advantages that cater directly to the needs of modern homeowners.
- Reduced Travel Stress: The most obvious benefit is the dramatic reduction in travel time to and from the airport. This means less time stuck in traffic and more peace of mind on travel days.
- A Quieter Lifestyle: These suburbs provide an escape from the 24/7 noise and congestion of city living. You can enjoy quieter streets, larger yards, and a more relaxed pace of life.
- Value for Money: Housing is generally more affordable in these suburbs compared to Chicago neighborhoods or suburbs on the North Shore. This allows for larger homes, more land, and a lower cost of living.
- Strong Communities: These established suburbs have strong local governments, active park districts, and a deep-rooted sense of community, making them great places to raise a family or put down roots.
For those whose lives or careers revolve around air travel, choosing a home in one of these convenient and welcoming suburbs is a strategic decision that pays daily dividends in time, money, and quality of life.
