---
title: Best Places to Live Near Fort Benning: A Comprehensive Guide for PCSing Military Personnel
slug: best-places-to-live-near-fort-benning
description: Discover the best neighborhoods near Fort Benning, Georgia, for your PCS move. Find the perfect home to enhance your Army experience at this vibrant base!
publishedAt: 2023-11-14T06:02:14.000Z
updatedAt: 2023-11-14T06:02:14.000Z
author: Bobby Haskin
categories: [US Military Bases]
canonical: https://www.veteranpcs.com/blog/best-places-to-live-near-fort-benning
---

# Best Places to Live Near Fort Benning: A Comprehensive Guide for PCSing Military Personnel

If you're preparing for a **Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to Fort Benning, Georgia**, home to the **United States Army Infantry School** and the **Maneuver Center of Excellence**, finding the right place to live is crucial.

With over **40,000 soldiers residing in the area**, Fort Benning is a **bustling military base**, and choosing the right community can greatly impact your experience.

This guide covers **the best places to live near Fort Benning**, including options in **both Georgia and Alabama**.

## **Best Places to Live Near Fort Benning**

### **Georgia**

#### **Columbus**

**Why Columbus?**
Columbus, the **largest city near Fort Benning**, offers a **diverse range of amenities** and attractions:

- **High-rated schools and hospitals**
- **Shopping centers and dining options**
- **Columbus State University**, providing educational opportunities for military spouses
- **Vibrant cultural scene**, including museums, theaters, and art galleries
- **Annual events**, such as **RiverFest Festival** and **Columbus Symphony Orchestra performances**

**Recommendation:** Ideal for those seeking a **dynamic lifestyle with diverse cultural offerings**.

#### **Midland**

**Why Midland?**
Located **just north of Columbus**, Midland is a **smaller city** known for:

- **Family-friendly atmosphere**
- **Top-rated schools**
- **Numerous parks and recreation facilities**
- **Lower cost of living compared to Columbus**

**Recommendation:** Perfect for those desiring a **quiet, small-town environment with an affordable cost of living**.

### **Alabama**

#### **Phenix City**

**Why Phenix City?**
Located **just across the Chattahoochee River** from Columbus, Phenix City is a **popular choice** for military families because of:

- **Close proximity to Fort Benning**
- **Lower cost of living**
- **Diverse community**
- **Variety of restaurants, shops, and historical attractions**

**Recommendation:** Ideal for those looking for **affordability and a strong sense of community**.

#### **Smiths Station**

**Why Smiths Station?**
Smiths Station is a **rural area** near Fort Benning, offering:

- **Highly rated school system**
- **Lower property taxes**
- **Spacious homes with large yards**
- **Plenty of parks and recreation opportunities**

**Recommendation:** Best for those who prioritize a **rural setting, excellent schools, and budget-friendly living**.

## **Factors to Consider When Choosing a Place to Live**

### **Commute Time**

- **Columbus to Fort Benning:** Can be long, especially during rush hour
- **Midland, Phenix City, and Smiths Station:** Offer shorter commutes

**Tip:** If you want to minimize travel time, choose a community closer to **Fort Benning's gates**.

### **Schools**

- If you have children, **consider school ratings** when choosing a location.
- **Columbus, Midland, and Smiths Station** all offer **strong school districts**.

**Resources:**

- [GreatSchools.org](https://www.greatschools.org)
- [Niche.com](https://www.niche.com)

### **Amenities**

- **Columbus**: Offers **the most** in terms of shopping, dining, and entertainment
- **Midland, Phenix City, and Smiths Station**: Provide a balance of **convenience and suburban living**
- **Smiths Station**: Best for those who prefer a **rural environment**

### **Cost of Living**

- **Georgia vs. Alabama:** Georgia has a slightly **higher cost of living** than Alabama, but the difference is **minimal**.
- **Phenix City and Smiths Station** offer **more affordable housing options** than Columbus and Midland.

**Resource:** Compare cost of living differences using the Cost of Living Index.

## **Finding Your Next Home**

Now that you’ve explored the **best places to live near Fort Benning**, it’s time to find your **ideal home**.

Our **dedicated military-friendly real estate agents** are here to assist you with a **seamless relocation experience**.

### **Why Choose VeteranPCS?**

Our experienced agents understand the **unique challenges of military moves** because **they are part of military families**.

- **We help identify the perfect home based on your needs and budget**
- **We negotiate on your behalf**
- **We guide you through the closing process**

📩 **Contact us today** to schedule a consultation with one of our **military-friendly real estate agents**. Let us make your **PCS transition smooth and stress-free**!