Arizona is a prime destination for active-duty military personnel and veterans. With its many military bases, tax-free military pay, outdoor recreation opportunities, and military-friendly communities, Arizona provides a welcoming environment for military families.
If you're PCSing to Arizona, this guide will help you prepare for your transition, covering everything from housing and schools to cost of living and military-friendly communities.
Military Bases in Arizona
Arizona is home to several major military installations:
- Fort Huachuca (Army)
- Luke Air Force Base (Air Force)
- Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (Air Force)
- Marine Corps Air Station Yuma (Marine Corps)
Each base has its own mission and community. Researching your assigned base before arrival will help ease your transition. Visit Military OneSource for base-specific details.
Tax-Free Military Pay in Arizona
Arizona is one of the few states that do not tax military pay.
- The average military family pays over $2,000 per year in state income taxes in other states.
- In Arizona, your military income is completely tax-free, providing significant savings.
For tax details, visit the Arizona Department of Revenue.
Outdoor Activities in Arizona
Arizona offers year-round outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating. Popular destinations include:
- Grand Canyon National Park – Famous for breathtaking hikes such as Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail.
- Saguaro National Park – Explore scenic desert landscapes filled with iconic saguaro cacti.
- Sedona – Known for its red rock formations and trails like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock.
- Prescott – Offers excellent mountain biking trails, including the Prescott Circle Trail.
- Scottsdale – Home to world-class golf courses such as TPC Scottsdale and Troon North Golf Club.
Find more outdoor activities on the Arizona Department of Tourism website.
Military-Friendly Communities in Arizona
Many Arizona communities actively support military personnel and their families, offering:
- Military discounts
- Employment assistance
- Childcare support
- Education benefits
