Best Army Bases For Families To Live

The decision to join the military is not just a personal one, but also affects the entire family. When considering a military career, it's essential to think about the impact on your loved ones, especially if you have children. The quality of life, education, and overall experience can vary greatly depending on the army base you're assigned to. In this article, we'll explore the best army bases for families to live, considering factors such as housing, schools, and community amenities.

Living on an army base can be a unique experience, with its own set of benefits and challenges. While it's not possible to choose your base, understanding what to expect can help you prepare and make the most of your time there. From family-friendly activities to excellent schools, we'll cover the top army bases that cater to the needs of families.

What Makes an Army Base Family-Friendly?

When evaluating the best army bases for families, several factors come into play. Here are some key considerations:

Housing: On-base housing, including the quality and availability of homes, is a top priority for families. Bases with modern, well-maintained housing and a range of options for different family sizes are highly valued.
Schools: Access to quality schools, both on and off base, is crucial for families with children. Bases with highly-rated schools, school districts, and educational resources are a major draw.
Community Amenities: A supportive community, recreational activities, and amenities like parks, pools, and shopping centers can greatly enhance the quality of life for families.
Healthcare: Access to quality healthcare, including on-base medical facilities and specialized services, is essential for families.
Spouse Employment: Opportunities for spouse employment, both on and off base, can help support the financial stability of military families.

Top Army Bases for Families

Based on these factors, here are some of the best army bases for families to live:

Fort Campbell, Kentucky Fort Campbell is known for its excellent schools, modern housing, and family-friendly atmosphere. The base offers a range of community amenities, including a commissary, exchange, and recreational facilities.
Fort Bragg, North Carolina Fort Bragg is one of the largest army bases in the world and offers a wide range of amenities and services for families. The base has a strong focus on family support, with programs like the Army Family Readiness Group.
Fort Drum, New York Fort Drum is situated in upstate New York and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. The base has a range of housing options, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor recreational activities.
Fort Carson, Colorado Fort Carson is located in Colorado Springs and offers a great quality of life for families. The base has modern housing, excellent schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Schofield Barracks, Hawaii Schofield Barracks is located on the island of Oahu and offers a unique and desirable location for families. The base has excellent schools, modern housing, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

What to Expect When Living on an Army Base

Living on an army base can be a unique and rewarding experience for families. Here are some things to expect:

Security: Army bases have strict security measures in place, including gates, ID checks, and surveillance cameras.
Community: Army bases have a strong sense of community, with many families and individuals supporting one another.
Amenities: Bases often have a range of amenities, including commissaries, exchanges, recreational facilities, and schools.
Rules and Regulations: Army bases have strict rules and regulations, including noise curfews, pet restrictions, and housing standards.
Deployment: As a military family, you can expect to experience deployment, which can be challenging for families. However, many bases offer support services and programs to help families cope.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Time on an Army Base

Here are some tips for making the most of your time on an army base:

Get Involved: Join base clubs, organizations, and volunteer groups to get involved in your community.
Take Advantage of Amenities: Make use of base amenities, including recreational facilities, schools, and shopping centers.
Build a Support Network: Build relationships with other families and individuals on base to create a support network.
Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date with base news, events, and announcements to stay informed.
Be Flexible: Be prepared for deployment and other challenges that come with military life.

Gallery of Army Base Family Life

Army Base Family Life Image Gallery

Final Thoughts

Living on an army base can be a unique and rewarding experience for families. While it's not possible to choose your base, understanding what to expect and being prepared can make a big difference. By choosing a base that aligns with your family's needs and priorities, you can set yourself up for success and create a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.

We hope this article has provided valuable insights and information for military families. Whether you're just starting out or already living on an army base, we encourage you to get involved, build a support network, and take advantage of the many amenities and services available to you.

Share Your Thoughts: What has been your experience living on an army base? What tips and advice would you share with other military families? Share your thoughts and comments below!