Count digits in blocks:

• 1-digit numbers (1–9): 9 digits total.
• 2-digit numbers (10–99): 90 numbers $\times$ 2 = 180 digits.

Cumulative after 1- and 2-digit numbers: 9 + 180 = 189 digits.

We want the 489th digit $\rightarrow$ remaining after 189 = 489 $-$ 189 = 300 digits, which come from 3-digit numbers (each contributes 3 digits).

Number of 3-digit numbers needed: 300 $\div$ 3 = 100 numbers $\rightarrow$ 100 to 199.

Thus, the 489th digit is the last digit of 199, which is $\textbf{9}$.