Navigating the Housing Market Near Military Bases

The Must-Read Guide for Military Families

A New Duty Station, A New Home—Where Do You Start?

Imagine this; you’ve just received your PCS (Permanent Change of Station) orders. Excitement kicks in—you’re headed to a new location with fresh opportunities and experiences. But then reality sets in. Where will you live? How will you find a home that fits your family’s needs, budget, and military lifestyle?

Relocating as a military family is no small feat, but with the right knowledge, you can turn what feels like an overwhelming challenge into a smooth transition. As a seasoned real estate agent with experience helping military families settle near bases, I’m here to make this move easier for you.

Let’s explore the unique dynamics of housing markets near military installations and how to find a home that best suits your family.

“The families of our military personnel make great sacrifices, enduring long separations and shouldering additional responsibilities, all in support of their loved ones and our nation.”

Why Homes Near Military Bases Are in High Demand

Military bases are like economic powerhouses for local housing markets. The steady rotation of service members and their families ensures a constant demand for housing, creating strong resale value and rental potential.

✔ Stable Market – Unlike other real estate markets that may experience drastic highs and lows, military towns generally maintain steady home values due to consistent demand.

✔ Great Resale Potential – If you’re considering purchasing a home near a base, the chances of finding another military buyer when you move are high.

✔ Strong Rental Market – Many military families prefer to rent, making these locations great for investors looking for long-term tenants.

This demand also translates to well-developed communities with top-tier schools, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to military support networks. Whether you’re buying or renting, living near a base comes with a unique set of advantages.

How to Find the Perfect Military-Friendly Neighborhood

Every military family has different needs, but common priorities include safety, affordability, top-rated schools, and a sense of community. Here are some of the best military-friendly cities near bases known for their welcoming environments:

🏡 Virginia Beach, VA (Naval Station Norfolk & Joint Base Langley-Eustis) – A popular choice for military families with its strong sense of community, excellent public schools, and proximity to military bases.

🏡 Quantico, VA (Marine Corps Base Quantico) – Just 30 miles south of Washington, D.C., Quantico offers a small-town feel with big-city access. With top-rated schools, family-friendly parks, and a strong military community, Quantico is a sought-after location for Marines and Department of Defense employees.

🏡 Fort Belvoir, VA (Fort Belvoir Army Base) – Located in Northern Virginia, Fort Belvoir is ideal for military families looking for proximity to D.C., high-ranking schools, and plenty of employment opportunities for spouses in both government and private sectors.

🏡 Fayetteville, NC (Fort Liberty, formerly Fort Bragg) – A hub for affordable housing, great veteran services, and military-friendly neighborhoods.

🏡 Rapid City, SD (Ellsworth Air Force Base) – Offers affordable housing, family-friendly neighborhoods, and excellent schools in a tight-knit community.

🏡 Abilene, TX (Dyess Air Force Base) – Known for its low cost of living, a strong support network for military families, and an easy commute to the base.

🏡 San Diego, CA (Multiple Military Installations) – While more expensive, it boasts top-tier schools, a vibrant lifestyle, and numerous recreational activities tailored for military families.

These areas are well-established military hubs, meaning you’ll find everything from on-base support services to military spouse employment programs, helping you integrate into your new community with ease.

Top 3 Tips for a Smooth Military Relocation

🏠 1. Start Your Home Search Early

As soon as you receive your PCS orders, begin researching neighborhoods. The earlier you start, the more options you’ll have to find a home that fits your needs.

🔍 2. Utilize Military Resources

Make use of tools like:

✅ Military Housing Service Centers (MHSC) – Provides guidance on on-base and off-base housing options.

✅ VA Home Loans – If you’re buying, explore the zero-down-payment benefits available to military families.

✅ Military Sponsors – If you’ve received your orders, then you should be contacted by a sponsor from your gaining command – be sure to lean on their expertise and knowledge.

🚗 3. Consider Commute & Lifestyle Needs

While living right next to the base may seem convenient, consider commute times, schools, shopping, and recreational opportunities. Sometimes, choosing a home 15-20 minutes from base means getting a better deal and a more family-friendly environment.

Final Thoughts

Your Next Move Made Easy. Military relocations come with challenges, but finding the right home near a base doesn’t have to be one of them. By understanding the market, prioritizing your family’s needs, and leveraging the right resources, you can make your next move stress-free and successful.

📞 Need Help Finding a Home Near a Military Base?

As a Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and experienced REALTOR®, I specialize in helping military families navigate the housing market with confidence. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent near your next duty station, I’ve got you covered.

👉 Contact Michael Brannon, REALTOR® for personalized real estate advice tailored to military families.

📍 Visit my website: AtHomeontheHillsinVA.com

Are you curious about what it would be like to live in another part of the country? Find out—without any obligation to actually move 🚚! Explore The Opportunities – Learn More!

🔍 Let’s find the perfect home for your next adventure!

If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with your fellow military families!