Finding a new home can be daunting, especially when relocating to a new military base. Fortunately, Lackland Air Force Base, also known as Joint Base San Antonio, offers a wide range of housing options designed to accommodate the diverse needs of military families.
This article will guide you through this journey, simplifying the process and providing the information you need to make the best decision for you and your loved ones while relocating to one of the homes for sale in San Antonio in or near the base.
Overview of Lackland Air Force Base
Named after Brigadier General Frank Lackland, Lackland AFB is a crucial hub for the U.S. Air Force. Located in Bexar County, San Antonio, Texas, Lackland AFB is part of Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) – a collaboration between the Air Force, Army, and Navy. The base, established during World War II, is known for its vital role in training U.S. Airmen.
Today, Lackland AFB is home to a vibrant community of service members, military retirees, and civilian employees. With thousands of military personnel and their families living on the base, providing adequate housing is a top priority.
Importance of Quality Housing for Military Personnel
Housing is critical to the well-being of military personnel and their families. As military members often relocate, a stable and comfortable living environment offers much-needed continuity and security.
Quality housing contributes to our service members’ overall morale, welfare, and readiness. It can significantly influence job satisfaction, retention, and overall military performance. Comfortable living spaces allow service members to rest and recharge, which is essential for those active-duty hours.
Living in a community that understands and supports the military lifestyle is crucial. Military housing communities like those at Joint Base San Antonio are designed to meet these needs. These communities offer more than just a roof over one’s head; they provide a supportive environment, fostering camaraderie among squadron members and their families.
Housing Options at Lackland Air Force Base
Finding the right home is crucial, especially for military families who often face the challenge of frequent relocations. Lackland Air Force Base (also known as Joint Base San Antonio) provides a diverse range of housing options to ensure comfort and convenience for our brave service members and their families.
On Base Housing at Lackland Air Force Base
One of the significant advantages of living on-base is convenience. Lackland AFB on base housing, managed by Balfour Beatty Communities, places military families near work, schools (with options like Lackland Elementary School and Virginia Allred Stacey Junior/Senior High School), and other base facilities, such as medical services and commissaries.
Security is another compelling factor. On-base housing communities are secure with controlled access, offering families peace of mind. Military police patrol these areas, ensuring a safe environment for all residents.
Lastly, on-base housing fosters a strong sense of community. Neighbors understand and share the challenges and rewards of military life, creating a supportive environment that extends beyond the bounds of your residence.
Off-Base Housing near Lackland Air Force Base
For those who prefer to live off-base, the surrounding areas of Lackland AFB, including the vibrant city of San Antonio, offer diverse housing options. You can find various Lackland family homes for rent or purchase from single-family homes to apartments.
Living off-base allows you to experience the broader community, with easy access to local attractions such as the historic colonial missions, San Antonio Spurs games, and vibrant shopping centers. The area boasts top-rated school districts and plentiful recreational activities, making it a great choice for families.
Temporary Lodging Options
Temporary lodging is available if you are new to Lackland AFB or in transition. The base offers the Gateway Inn & Suites with comfortable rooms and amenities including Wi-Fi, cable TV, microwave, refrigerator, and more.
This lodging provides a safe and comfortable space for military members and their families as they transition to permanent housing not far from everything San Antonio offers.
In conclusion, whether you prefer the convenience and community of on-base community housing or the broader experience of living off-base in San Antonio, Lackland AFB and its surrounding areas offer suitable housing options to suit every need.
Cost and Eligibility
Considering costs is vital when exploring housing options. On-base housing at Lackland AFB includes rent, utilities, and maintenance services in one convenient package, often making it a more affordable option. Costs are typically based on rank and the type of residence.
Off-base housing, on the other hand, can vary widely in cost depending on location, size, and amenities. Military members receive a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to help offset these costs in the San Antonio neighboring communities.
Eligibility for on-base housing includes active-duty military personnel and their families. Single service members may also be eligible, depending on availability. Special assistance programs, such as Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) housing, are available for families with special needs.
Key Takeaways
Lackland AFB offers a diverse range of housing options to ensure the comfort and convenience of military families. Whether you prefer the security and community of on-base living or the broader experience of off-base life in San Antonio, there are options to suit every need across several zip codes. The base also offers temporary lodging for newcomers or those in transition.
If you’re considering your housing options at Lackland AFB, we encourage you to explore the variety of available residences and attend upcoming open houses if you’re in the area or plan to visit. To start, do a custom home search with us and sign up to get daily or weekly alerts of new listings in San Antonio.
For more information, and for assistance with San Antonio housing options in and near the Lackland Air Force Base, get in touch with a local eXp real estate agent.
FAQs: Lackland AFB Housing
1. Does Lackland Air Force Base have a hotel?
Yes, the Gateway Inn & Suites provides temporary lodging on the base.
2. How far is Lackland AFB from the airport?
Lackland AFB is approximately 19 miles from San Antonio International Airport.
3. What is Lackland AFB called now?
Lackland AFB is now part of Joint Base San Antonio.
4. Can you live at home in the Air Force?
Yes, depending on your duty station and rank, you can live off-base in civilian housing.
5. Is Lackland AFB a good base?
It offers excellent facilities, housing, and quality of life for military families.
6. Can you live on Lackland Air Force Base?
Yes, active-duty military personnel and their families can live on base in San Antonio.
7. Where to live when stationed at Lackland?
Options include on-base housing and various neighborhoods and suburbs in San Antonio.
8. Can retirees live on Lackland AFB?
While there is no long-term housing for retirees on base, retirement communities are nearby in San Antonio.
9. What must you pay for when you live on base?
Rent, utilities, and maintenance are often included in on-base housing.
