Poplar Grove Airport Hangar Homesites for Sale: Fly-In Living Without the Hassle
- Aviation Real Estate Magazine
- May 14
- 2 min read
Updated: May 19
If you’ve ever dreamed of living with your airplane, Poplar Grove Airport (C77) in northern Illinois offers more than just a runway—it offers a vibrant lifestyle. Tucked into the heart of Boone County and surrounded by open skies and aviation history, Poplar Grove is one of the country’s most active and beloved privately owned open to the public residential airpark. And now, new lots are available for pilots ready to live the dream.
Originally founded in 1972 on a converted dairy farm, Poplar Grove has grown into a nationally recognized fly-in community. Just an hour from Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison, this unique airport combines rural tranquility with easy access to major cities. With award-winning aircraft maintenance, a flight school, and a vibrant community of aviators, it’s no wonder this airport & airpark have earned a reputation as one of aviation’s best-kept secrets.

Build Your Hangar Home—Without the HOA Hassles
At the heart of the airport is Bel Air Estates, a residential fly-in neighborhood that blends aviation access with old-fashioned neighborly charm. Current availability includes a selection of runway-access lots and small parcels ready for custom hangar homes.
And unlike many other airparks, there’s no homeowners association. That means no HOA fees, no architectural committees, and no surprise restrictions on how you live with your airplane. Instead, residents simply pay a low monthly fee directly to the airport for use of the runways and upkeep of common areas.
“We intentionally chose not to have an HOA,” says airport owner Steve Thomas. “We maintain the infrastructure and handle the liability—so our residents can just enjoy flying and being part of a tight-knit, like-minded community. It keeps things simple, friendly, and focused on aviation—not red tape.”

Why Pilots Choose Poplar Grove Airport
Lots Available Now: Runway-access lots in a thriving fly-in community hangar homes.
No HOA: Skip the conflicts and restrictions—just enjoy your airplane and the people.
Active Pilot Culture: From Cubs to Bonanzas, this is a fly-in neighborhood built for flying and all aviation interests and the people who love them.
Top Amenities: Flight school, aircraft & engine shop, aviation museum, EAA Chapter and more—all on-site
Ideal Location: Within an hour of major Midwest cities, but a world apart in feel
From antique taildraggers and homebuilts to modern cross-country cruisers, the aircraft—and the people—at Poplar Grove reflect a shared love of aviation. Whether you're looking for your forever home, a retirement runway retreat, or just a place where your plane can live as well as you do, the Hangar Homesites at Poplar Grove offer a truly unmatched opportunity.
Ready to taxi into a new lifestyle? See available lots at PoplarGroveAirmotive.com/belair-north
