Military Housing: The Pros and Cons Of Living On or Off Base

Trying to determine whether to live on or off base? I’m sharing my experience with both military housing and living off base.

As a military spouse, I’ve had the opportunity to experience life both on and off base. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and after navigating both, I’ve gained insights into the pros and cons of each. And before I even get started – yes I prefer living off base, but there are definite advantages at some duty stations to living on base. Today I’m sharing my personal perspective on what it’s like to live in military base housing versus living off base.

The Pros and Cons Of Living On or Off Base

Both living on base and off base offer unique advantages and drawbacks for military families. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual preferences, priorities, and circumstances. Whether you prioritize community support and convenience or value autonomy and integration with the civilian community, weighing the pros and cons can help guide you toward the housing option that best suits your family’s needs and lifestyle.

Living On Base:

Pros

1. Community Support: One of the greatest benefits of living on base is the strong sense of community. You’re surrounded by fellow military families who understand the challenges and triumphs of military life. This built-in support system can be invaluable, especially during deployments or times of need.
2. Convenience: Living on base often means being closer to amenities such as schools, commissaries, and recreational facilities. This can save time and reduce the stress of daily errands, allowing for more quality time with family.
3. Security: Military bases typically have heightened security measures in place, providing a sense of safety and peace of mind for residents. This can be particularly reassuring for families with loved ones deployed or stationed elsewhere.

Cons

1. Lack of Privacy: Living on base means being surrounded by other military families in close proximity. While this fosters a strong sense of community, it can also result in a lack of privacy and noise disturbances, especially in housing units with shared walls.
2. Limited Housing Options: Base housing availability can be limited, and the quality of housing may vary. Families may have limited choices in terms of floor plans, amenities, and location, depending on availability and rank. The quality of military housing is a well known issue as well. All I can say is do your research and request maintenance records for the exact  home you are offered!
3. Bureaucratic Processes: Dealing with base housing offices and adhering to military regulations can sometimes be a pain in the ass. From maintenance requests to lease agreements, navigating the bureaucratic processes associated with on-base housing can be challenging at times.

Living Off Base:

Pros

1. Freedom of Choice: Opting to live off base provides more flexibility and freedom in terms of housing options. Families can choose their preferred neighborhood, school district, and housing style, allowing for greater customization to meet their specific needs and preferences.
2. Increased Privacy: Living off base often means more space and privacy compared to on-base housing. Families can enjoy a greater sense of autonomy and control over their living environment, with fewer restrictions on personalization and lifestyle choices.
3. Integration with Civilian Community: Living off base offers the opportunity to integrate with the civilian community, fostering diverse social connections and experiences outside of the military bubble. This can broaden perspectives and provide valuable networking opportunities for both military members and their families.

Cons

1. Commute and Distance: Depending on the location of the base, living off base may entail a longer commute to work or school. This can result in increased travel time, fuel costs, and potential challenges in balancing work and family responsibilities.
2. Limited Military Support Services: While off-base living provides access to civilian amenities, it may lack the convenience of on-base support services such as healthcare facilities, childcare centers, and recreational programs tailored to military families.
3. Financial Considerations: Housing expenses off base may not be fully covered by the military’s Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), requiring families to budget and potentially incur additional housing costs. Additionally, fluctuations in the housing market can impact affordability and housing availability.

If you liked this post, you might also like How To Decorate Military Base Housing or 10 Important Documents To Keep On You During A Military Move