Chicago is making history with its first new airport concourse in more than 30 years. Earlier this week, Chicago City leaders including Mayor Brandon Johnson officially broke ground on Concourse D, a $1.3 billion project at O’Hare International Airport.
While the $1.3 billion project is making headlines for its design and travel improvements, the ripple effects go far beyond aviation. The O’Hare expansion is expected to create thousands of jobs, attract new businesses, and boost demand in surrounding neighborhoods. For homebuyers, sellers, and investors, this is a development worth watching.
What Concourse D Will Bring
The new Concourse D will add 19 gates to O’Hare’s Terminal 1, with modernized spaces designed to handle both domestic and international flights. Travelers can expect open, light-filled terminals, new lounges, and widebody aircraft access.
This expansion is part of the larger ORDNext redevelopment plan, which also includes a new Global Terminal and additional satellite concourses. The goal is clear—keep O’Hare competitive with other global hubs while improving the travel experience for nearly 80 million passengers a year.
Why Real Estate Near O’Hare Could See Growth
Major infrastructure projects almost always influence the housing market. Here’s how this expansion may affect real estate:
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More jobs, more demand: With an estimated 3,800 construction jobs and more permanent positions once the concourse opens, nearby suburbs like Des Plaines, Park Ridge, and Rosemont may see increased housing demand.
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Higher property values: Areas with quick access to O’Hare are attractive to frequent travelers, airline professionals, and businesses. As convenience grows, property prices often follow.
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Investment opportunities: Short-term rentals near the airport may see a surge in demand, especially as passenger volume grows. Investors interested in Airbnb near O’Hare or furnished rentals should pay close attention.
Neighborhoods to Watch
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Des Plaines and Park Ridge: Family-friendly communities with good schools and quick airport access.
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Rosemont: Already known for entertainment and hotels, Rosemont could see more development thanks to airport growth.
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Northwest neighborhoods along I-90: Convenient to both downtown and O’Hare, making them increasingly desirable for commuters.
The O’Hare Concourse D expansion is more than an airport upgrade. It’s a transformation that could shape the housing market and create new real estate opportunities on Chicago’s northwest side. For those thinking about buying, selling, or investing, now is the time to watch this project closely.
The official press release can be found here: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/mayor/press_room/press_releases/2025/august/Community-Support-Concourse-D-Groundbreaking.html