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10/19/2025
Percheron Master-Planned Community: Your Guide to Colorado Springs' Newest Neighborhood Near Peterson SFB and Fort Carson
Military families stationed at Peterson Space Force Base or Fort Carson face a common challenge: finding a home that balances community amenities, quality schools, and reasonable commute times. Colorado Springs' newest master-planned community, Percheron, addresses these needs with a thoughtfully designed neighborhood along East Woodmen Road that combines modern housing, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly features. This comprehensive guide explores what makes Percheron an attractive option for active duty service members, veterans, and their families considering a PCS move to Colorado Springs in 2025 and beyond. What Makes Percheron Different? Percheron isn't simply another housing development—it's a master-planned community designed around lifestyle and connectivity. According to the City of Colorado Springs Planning Department, master-planned communities like Percheron must meet specific criteria for infrastructure, green space, and community amenities that benefit residents long-term. The community spans approximately 1,300 acres in northeast Colorado Springs, strategically positioned to offer both suburban convenience and access to the city's natural beauty. Development began in 2023, with the first residents moving in during 2024. Key Features: Multiple Home Builders: Percheron partners with several nationally recognized builders, offering diverse floor plans and price points to accommodate military families at different career stages Integrated Amenities: The community design includes shopping, dining, and recreational spaces within walking distance of residential areas Educational Access: Homes fall within the highly-rated Academy School District 20 (D-20), not D-49 as originally planned—an important distinction for families prioritizing education quality Trail Connectivity: Over 10 miles of planned walking and biking trails will eventually connect to the Woodmen Regional Trail system and broader Pikes Peak region trail network Community Amenities: Built for Active Military Families Percheron's amenity package reflects the needs of modern military families who value both community connection and outdoor recreation. Regional Sports Complex The centerpiece of Percheron's recreational offerings is a planned 125-acre regional sports complex that will serve both residents and the broader Colorado Springs community. While specific facilities are still being finalized as of October 2025, similar complexes typically include: Multi-purpose athletic fields for soccer, lacrosse, and football Baseball and softball diamonds Tennis and pickleball courts Playground areas for younger children Pavilions for family gatherings and unit events This type of facility is particularly valuable for military families who often use sports and recreation to build community connections after a PCS move. Trail Systems and Open Space According to Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services, the city maintains over 200 miles of trails throughout the region. Percheron's planned trail network will integrate with existing systems, including: Woodmen Regional Trail: A major east-west trail corridor that connects multiple neighborhoods Internal Community Trails: Planned paths throughout Percheron for walking, jogging, and biking Open Space Preservation: The community design dedicates significant acreage to parks and natural areas, maintaining the Front Range views that make Colorado Springs attractive to newcomers For military families who value outdoor recreation—whether for physical fitness requirements or simply enjoying Colorado's natural beauty—these connected trail systems provide immediate access to active lifestyles. Schools: Academy School District 20 An important clarification: Percheron homes fall within Academy School District 20 (D-20), not District 49 as initially planned during early development phases. This distinction matters significantly for military families prioritizing education quality. According to GreatSchools.org, a nonprofit providing school ratings based on test scores, student progress, and equity metrics, Academy School District 20 consistently ranks among Colorado's top-performing districts. The Colorado Department of Education rates D-20 schools highly for academic achievement, with several schools earning distinction status. For military families, strong schools provide continuity when children may change schools multiple times during a military career. D-20's reputation and performance metrics make it a draw for service members prioritizing educational stability. Nearby D-20 Schools Include: Elementary: Air Academy Elementary, Cotton Elementary Middle: Air Academy Middle School, Pine Creek Middle School High: Air Academy High School, Pine Creek High School Location: Strategic Access for Military Commuters Percheron's location along East Woodmen Road provides military families with balanced access to both Peterson Space Force Base and Fort Carson, though commute times vary significantly between the two installations. Distance and Commute Considerations Peterson Space Force Base: Approximately 12-15 miles southeast via Powers Boulevard and North Carefree Circle, with typical drive times of 20-25 minutes during non-peak hours Fort Carson: Approximately 25-30 miles south via Powers Boulevard and Interstate 25, with drive times ranging from 35-45 minutes depending on traffic and gate entry points Schriever Space Force Base: Approximately 30 miles east via Woodmen Road and Highway 94, roughly 35-40 minutes According to the Defense Travel Management Office, service members should consider commute distance when calculating Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) budgets, as longer commutes increase fuel and vehicle maintenance costs. Local Amenities and Shopping Percheron's proximity to Powers Boulevard—one of Colorado Springs' major commercial corridors—provides convenient access to: Grocery stores (Safeway, King Soopers, Walmart) Retail centers (Powers Marketplace, Shops at Briargate) Restaurants ranging from fast-casual to sit-down dining Medical facilities including urgent care and pharmacies Banking and essential services This commercial access means military families can handle everyday errands without extended drives, saving time during busy PCS transitions or deployment preparations. Visual Suggestion: Interactive-style map showing 5-minute, 10-minute, and 15-minute drive radius from Percheron to key amenities and military installations. Home Options: What to Expect in Percheron As of October 2025, Percheron features multiple builders offering diverse home styles and price points. While specific inventory changes frequently, military families can generally expect: Builder Options Percheron partners with established builders known for quality construction and military-friendly sales processes, including: Oakwood Homes: Known for energy-efficient designs and flexible floor plans Richmond American Homes: Offers customization options and military incentives Century Communities: Features quick move-in options valuable for short-notice PCS orders Each builder maintains model homes and sales centers within Percheron, allowing military families to compare options in one location. Price Ranges and Floor Plans As of late 2025, new construction homes in Percheron typically range from the mid-$400,000s to $600,000s+, depending on size, finishes, and lot selection. This pricing aligns with Colorado Springs' overall market, which according to Zillow, has seen steady appreciation due to continued military presence and civilian population growth. Common Floor Plans: 1,800-2,200 sq ft: Entry-level homes often with no or unfinished basements, typically 3-4 bedrooms 2,200-2,800 sq ft: Mid-range homes with more space throughout, usually 4-5 bedrooms, often with finished basements 2,800+ sq ft: Larger homes with luxury touches throughout, 5+ bedrooms with premium finishes VA Loan Advantages in New Construction Military families using VA Loans in Percheron benefit from several advantages when purchasing new construction. According to VA.gov, VA Loans require no down payment for eligible service members and veterans, which can save $15,000-$30,000 upfront on a $500,000 home compared to conventional financing requiring 3-5% down. Additional VA Loan Benefits: No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Conventional loans require PMI when down payments fall below 20%, adding $100-$300 monthly. VA Loans eliminate this cost Builder Incentives: Many Percheron builders offer attractive low interest rates or closing cost assistance for military buyers New Construction Advantages: VA Loans work seamlessly with new builds, and the VA appraisal process includes a thorough property inspection protecting buyers from construction defects The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau notes that VA Loans typically offer competitive interest rates compared to conventional options, potentially saving thousands over the loan term. For military families interested in understanding all their VA Loan benefits, our comprehensive guide covers essential VA Loan advantages for 2025. Colorado Springs Military Community: Why Location Matters Colorado Springs hosts one of the largest military populations in the United States, with over 45,000 active duty service members and their families according to the Colorado Springs Chamber & Economic Development Corporation. This substantial military presence creates a unique community dynamic that benefits newcomers. Military-Friendly Culture Unlike some civilian-dominated cities, Colorado Springs understands military life. Local businesses offer military discounts, schools have experience with frequent student transitions, and community organizations actively support service members and their families. Percheron's location within this military-aware community means: Neighbors Who Understand: High likelihood of military neighbors who relate to deployment cycles, PCS moves, and base life School Experience: D-20 schools serve significant military populations and have protocols for supporting students during family separations Community Resources: Easy access to Military OneSource partner organizations and local veteran service groups Weather and Lifestyle Considerations Military families moving from different climates should understand Colorado Springs' unique weather patterns: Sunny Days: Colorado Springs averages over 300 days of sunshine annually, significantly more than many PCS locations Four Seasons: Distinct seasons with cold winters (snow possible October-April) and mild summers (temps typically 80s-90s°F) Low Humidity: Dry climate requires adjustment for families from humid regions, including increased water intake and skin care Altitude: At approximately 6,035 feet elevation, some families experience temporary altitude adjustment symptoms The National Weather Service provides detailed climate data for families planning their move. Making Your Decision: Is Percheron Right for Your Military Family? When evaluating Percheron for your PCS move or post-military transition, consider these factors: Percheron Works Well For: Peterson SFB Families: Shorter commute times make daily life more manageable, especially during winter weather Families Prioritizing Schools: D-20's strong reputation provides educational stability during military career transitions Outdoor Enthusiasts: Trail access and Front Range proximity support active lifestyles and physical fitness requirements First-Time Buyers: Entry-level pricing and VA Loan benefits make homeownership achievable for junior service members Growing Families: Diverse floor plans accommodate families at different life stages Consider Alternatives If: Fort Carson Daily Commuters: The 35-45 minute commute may become burdensome over a typical 3-year assignment, especially with Colorado's winter weather. Communities closer to Fort Carson might better serve daily commuters Immediate Move-In Needed: New construction timelines typically run 6-12 months, which may not align with short-notice PCS orders requiring immediate housing Budget Constraints: Percheron's pricing reflects new construction premiums. Established neighborhoods may offer better value for cost-conscious families Timeline and Availability: Planning Your Purchase New construction purchases require different timelines than existing homes—an important consideration for military families with specific report dates. Typical New Construction Timeline: Model Home Visits and Lot Selection: 1-2 weeks Contract and Design Selections: 2-4 weeks Construction Period: 6-12 months depending on builder and floor plan Final Walk-Through and Closing: 1-2 weeks Military-Specific Considerations: For service members with PCS orders, timing is critical. According to Military OneSource, most PCS moves provide 30-90 days notice, which doesn't align with new construction timelines. Understanding your PCS entitlements and benefits can help you plan accordingly. Options for Military Buyers: Quick Move-In Homes: Some builders maintain nearly-completed inventory homes with 30-60 day closings Future Orders: Service members with advance notice (6-12 months) can time construction completion with PCS arrival Rental Bridge: Families can rent temporarily while construction completes, though this requires financial qualification for both rent and mortgage Alternative Market: Consider existing homes if new construction timing doesn't match orders Working with VeteranPCS: Your Local Military Real Estate Experts Navigating Colorado Springs' real estate market, understanding VA Loan nuances, and coordinating new construction purchases during a PCS move requires specialized expertise. VeteranPCS connects military families with agents who understand both the local market and military life. How VeteranPCS Agents Help: Military-Specific Knowledge: Understanding of PCS timelines, BAH calculations, and military life realities Builder Relationships: Established connections with Percheron builders can facilitate smoother transactions and potential military incentives VA Loan Expertise: Coordination with VA-experienced lenders who understand military financing unique requirements, including strategies like VA loan assumptions Local Market Intelligence: Current knowledge of Percheron inventory, pricing trends, and neighborhood development progress Remote Support: Assistance for families house-hunting before arriving in Colorado Springs, including virtual tours and video walk-throughs Beyond Percheron: Exploring All Options While Percheron offers excellent features for many military families, VeteranPCS agents can also introduce you to alternative neighborhoods that might better fit your specific needs: Closer to Fort Carson: Fountain, Security-Widefield, or south Colorado Springs neighborhoods Established Communities: Briargate, Northgate, or other developed areas with mature landscaping and amenities Different Price Points: Options across Colorado Springs' diverse price spectrum Ready to explore Percheron or other Colorado Springs neighborhoods? Connect with a VeteranPCS agent today who understands military moves and can guide you through every step of finding your perfect home near Peterson SFB or Fort Carson! Frequently Asked Questions About Percheron Q: Does Percheron have a Homeowners Association (HOA)? Yes, like most master-planned communities, Percheron has an HOA that maintains common areas, trails, and community amenities. Monthly fees typically range from $50-$100 but confirm current rates with your VeteranPCS agent, as they can vary by neighborhood section. Q: Can I use my VA Loan to buy in Percheron? Absolutely. All builders in Percheron work with VA Loan buyers regularly. Many offer additional incentives for military purchasers, including closing cost assistance or upgrades. Q: What if I receive PCS orders before my home is built? This is a common concern for military buyers. Options include: selling the contract before construction completes, converting to a rental property (if financially feasible), or purchasing a quick move-in home instead. Your VeteranPCS agent can help evaluate these scenarios based on your specific situation. Q: Are there military families already living in Percheron? Yes, given Colorado Springs' substantial military population and Percheron's proximity to Peterson SFB, many military families have already chosen the community. This creates a built-in support network for newcomers. Q: What utilities serve Percheron? Percheron receives services from Colorado Springs Utilities (electricity, water, natural gas) and has access to multiple internet service providers including fiber optic options—important for military families needing reliable connectivity for remote work or distance learning. Q: How do I stay organized during my PCS move to Percheron? Consider creating a comprehensive PCS binder to keep all your important documents, contracts, and moving information in one place. This is especially helpful when coordinating new construction timelines with your PCS dates. Final Thoughts: Your Colorado Springs Home Awaits Percheron represents Colorado Springs' evolution as a military community—combining modern amenities, outdoor recreation access, and quality schools with the Front Range beauty that makes Colorado special. For military families evaluating their next PCS move or considering putting down permanent roots in the Pikes Peak region, this master-planned community deserves serious consideration. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer using your VA Loan for the first time, a growing family needing more space, or a service member approaching retirement and planning your forever home, Percheron's diverse options and strategic location offer compelling advantages. The key to a successful home purchase—especially during a PCS move—is working with professionals who understand both the local market and military life's unique demands. VeteranPCS bridges that gap, connecting you with agents and lenders who've helped countless military families navigate Colorado Springs real estate. Found this guide helpful? Share it with your military network to help fellow service members learn about Colorado Springs' newest community! And when you're ready to visit Percheron or explore other neighborhoods, VeteranPCS is here to support your journey home.
9/26/2025
Choosing the Best Relocation Method for Your PCS
Moving to a new duty station can be an exciting yet stressful experience—one that comes with a lot of big decisions. According to Military OneSource, nearly 700,000 service members undergo PCS moves annually, making relocation choices a critical concern for military families. One of those key considerations is how to relocate. Each method has its pros and cons, and the best choice for you depends on factors such as budget, convenience, time constraints, and the amount of belongings to move. Before diving into your options, make sure you've reviewed The Ultimate PCS Checklist and Timeline for Active Duty Military Personnel to ensure you're prepared for every aspect of your move. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you decide the best method for your next Permanent Change of Station (PCS). 1. Full PPM Option #1: Rental Equipment If you prefer more flexibility and don't mind putting in some hard work, a "PPM" (Personally Procured Move) move may be the best option. With this option, you are fully in charge of your own move, including renting equipment, packing, loading, and transporting your household goods. For those preparing for this option, understanding what military movers won't pack is crucial even if you're doing it yourself. Pros: Full Control: You have control over packing, loading, and the entire timeline. If you'd rather not deal with the packing or loading portions, you still have the option of outsourcing to a local packing crew. Flexible Scheduling: A PPM comes with more freedom in selecting your timeline and less reliance on external schedules. This includes more flexibility when planning move-in/move-out dates if you're buying or renting a new home. More Budget-Friendly: If your heart is set on a PPM, renting moving equipment will typically be the most affordable option. Quality Control: This option gives you way more oversight, allowing you to see that the packing job is done to your standards and your items are handled/packed with care. Cons: Physical Labor: If you're choosing not to outsource the heavy lifting, moving furniture and boxes can be physically demanding and even dangerous, sometimes causing injury. Time-Consuming: Packing, loading, driving, and unloading take a significant amount of time and effort. Check our guide on preparing for movers for time-saving strategies that apply even to DIY moves. Up-Front Cost: Choosing a PPM means covering costs out of pocket throughout the moving process until you can be reimbursed on the back end. Understanding your PCS entitlements and benefits can help you plan financially. Rules & Regulations: According to VA.gov, familiarize yourself with all current government moving regulations—weight allowances, authorized expenses, travel timelines, tax implications, managing weight tickets/receipts, reimbursement rates, and so on. It's best to map out your expenses and use a reimbursement calculator to make sure this is right for you. Potential for Damage & Theft: If you're inexperienced, you may accidentally damage your belongings during the move. Rental trucks and trailers are also targets for theft, and are sometimes stolen out of places like hotel parking lots when the owners are not around. Be sure to research ways to protect your equipment. Insurance: Since you'll be transporting all of your things, keeping or adding insurance is a necessary step to protecting yourself from a catastrophic incident—ask your agent about coverage options. And always ask the rental company about types of coverage they offer as well—having your bases covered will give you peace of mind in transit. When considering a full do-it-yourself PPM, this method is best for: Military personnel/families who have budgeted to fund a DIY move and are financially prepared for out-of-pocket costs Short-distance moves OR long-distance moves with motivated individuals who want to be paid back for their hard labor and efforts Those who have help from friends, family, or third-party packing crews Those wanting a flexible timeline or full control 2. Full PPM Option #2: Portable Containers & Freight Services Portable container companies and self-moving freight services both offer a creative middle ground between DIY and full-service moves. It's an ideal option if you want full control over packing & loading without the hassle of driving a large moving truck, since they will transport the shipment on your behalf. However, military families should be aware that costs for these services will likely be higher than rental equipment, and sometimes might exceed reimbursement rates. The Department of Defense advises: Always check reimbursement rates and get moving quotes before choosing a method. Pros: Convenience: Containers and freight companies deliver right to your home, and you can load/unload at your own pace within a given window. More Affordable than Full-Service: Generally cheaper than hiring professional full-service interstate movers. Storage Options: Many companies offer storage if you need time before unloading. This can be especially helpful when navigating temporary housing during your PCS move. Door-to-Door Delivery: In many cases, your items will go from origin to destination with few stops or transitions through warehouses. They also typically have more accurate transit times than military movers. Freight Services Billing Method: Many of the freight transport companies will only charge you for the amount of space used on the truck, as they can block it off and use the remaining space for other shipments. Cons: Limited Flexibility: You must work within the company's schedule and you may have a set window to load and unload your items. Space Constraints: Portable containers may not work for larger moves as they come in fixed sizes, so you may need to pay for multiple units. Additional Costs: Expect higher costs than a full do-it-yourself move. Some charge extra for delivery, pickup, or storage. Be sure to also ask your container company what types of coverage they offer, if any, and discuss with your insurance agent about what other coverage may be needed. May Not Be Fully Reimbursed: For military members, this still falls under the "PPM" umbrella and you will be responsible for fronting these costs. Be sure to calculate reimbursement rates, as not all costs may be covered. May Not Service Your Area: Be sure to call and ask if they service your region, as not all companies will service every single part of the country. Best For: Long-distance moves with somewhat flexible timing Those who need temporary storage Individuals looking for a semi-DIY option but have the budget to outsource the job Those who want to save money but avoid driving a moving truck Small furniture containers are ideal for smaller moves with less household goods. The larger freight containers/full truckloads are ideal for any size move. 3. Partial PPM: A Hybrid Option A partial PPM is, in a sense, utilizing the best of both worlds: outsourcing the bulk of the work to military-contracted movers, while also opting to transport some things yourself. This approach is covered in detail in our Military PCS Quick Guide Q&A. You'll want to make sure you consult with the right offices to complete documentation, and you'll need to obtain empty/full weight tickets of your vehicle or rental equipment. Assuming all PPM regulations are met, you can be reimbursed for the weight and distance of the items moved on your own. Be sure to separate these items and communicate with military movers about which items won't be getting packed and loaded on their truck. Some things people might choose to move themselves include: mattresses, bedding, medical equipment, suitcases & clothing, high-value or sentimental items, pet necessities, personal documents, basic kitchen items, and any other urgent or useful items. Creating a PCS Binder can help you keep these important documents organized during transport. Pros: More Control, Quicker Access: You have more control over valuables and easier access to specific items during transit or that you may want right away upon move-in. Potential Cost Savings: Since the military will cover the bulk of the costs, you'll get the benefits of a military move without the headache of temporarily living without those urgent personal items. Less Stress: If you decide to move high-value/personal items yourself, you might feel more at-ease knowing they are secure with you and handled with care. Staying Under Weight Allowance: According to Military OneSource, many military families have been slapped with huge bills into the thousands after (sometimes unknowingly) going over the weight allowance. If you think you might go over your weight allowance, this might be an option to try and lower the total that your military movers will transport. You'll first want to try and purge items you no longer need, and then try to determine your weight from a previous move (minus any calculations for packing materials and pro gear). Once you have an idea on if you'll go over, then you can decide whether a partial might be necessary to avoid a huge bill later. Cons: Risk of Theft: Rental trucks and trailers being towed are at higher risk of theft and can be fairly easy to steal. Research ways to protect your equipment during overnight stays. Additional Coverage: Since you may be transporting valuable or sentimental possessions, you may consider adding or keeping certain insurance active while in transit. Be sure to communicate with your agent about what type of insurance is best. Consider Weight Allowance: You will not receive a higher weight allowance for a partial PPM, so be sure to research your weight allowance and stay under if you do want a full reimbursement! Dual Effort & Schedules: Unless you're able to fit most items inside your personal vehicles, you'll have to manage bookings for both military movers plus any rental equipment/freight service you'll be using. Partial PPMs can also require extra physical labor, since you'll be doing some of the packing and loading! Best For: Long-distance moves (especially those with longer delivery timeframes) Those who have essential or valuable items they want to transport themselves Those who are able to split up the weight allowance without going over weight Those who might go over their weight allowance and don't want to be left with a surprise bill later on for the remaining cost of the overweight goods 4. Full-Service HHG Move: Using Military Movers If you prefer a hassle-free move, using the military-contracted movers may be the best option. For comprehensive preparation tips, review our guide on preparing to PCS before your movers arrive. Pros: Less Physical Strain: Movers handle all the heavy lifting. Efficient and Fast: Professional movers have experience packing and moving efficiently. Insurance and Liability: Military moving companies offer insurance, protecting your belongings in case of damage or loss—just be aware that coverage is typically only up to a certain dollar amount per pound, so be sure to read the most current military regulations & talk to your TSP before your move. You may consider discussing with your insurance agent if you need additional coverage for certain valuables. Less Up-Front Costs: One of the most attractive aspects of using military movers is that you won't need to come out of pocket for any supplies, equipment, fuel, or other HHG transport costs. Inconvenience Fees: If military-contracted movers miss a delivery window, you may be entitled to a small inconvenience fee with your TSP. Cons: Risk of Damage, Loss, or Theft: Items may be broken or lost in the process. On rare occasions, valuables (like electronics, jewelry, firearms, and money) have been reported as stolen—so it's best to make a plan to hand-carry them when possible. If you must send them with your movers, have photo evidence, back-up insurance, and all of your item descriptions listed individually on the mover's high-value inventory sheets. Limited Coverage: Military movers offer "full replacement value" up to a certain dollar amount per pound. Be sure to read updated PCS regulations or discuss with your TSP/travel office. Inventory Sheets: Inventory is often an overlooked aspect and it can be a lot of work - but it's important to double check each inventory list by your movers to make sure all big items are accounted for. Making your own inventory list prior to moving day can help. Less Overall Control: Your belongings are in someone else's hands, and you must work within their packing & delivery schedule. Risk of Late Delivery: During the busy peak season, it's not uncommon for moving companies to experience a backlog, resulting in delayed or missed delivery windows. Best For: Long-distance/interstate or international moves—especially for those preparing for an overseas PCS Those with large amounts of heavy furniture or fragile items Busy individuals or families who can't pack themselves or want a stress-free move Final Decision: Which Relocation Method is Best for You? Consider the following factors when choosing your relocation method: Budget: If saving money is a priority, using the military movers will be your best option, pending you make sure to stay within your weight allowance. Time and Convenience: If you're short on time or just want a hassle-free experience, letting the military movers run the show might be right for you! Distance: Distance can affect your decision based on whether a DIY move will be worth the extra effort: do you want to get paid for your hard labor and efforts, or does it make more sense to let movers handle all or part of it? Amount of Belongings: If you have a large household, using the movers or a freight container company may be more practical than renting a smaller moving truck. Physical Ability: If you're unable to lift heavy items, hiring movers or even paying for a packing crew during a PPM is a smart move. Full PPM vs. Partial PPM vs. Full-Service HHG Move: This is the burning question that every military family must ask before each PCS. And that answer might change each time—do what makes the most sense for your current personal or financial situation. By weighing these factors, you can determine the best moving method for your needs and ensure a smooth relocation experience. No matter which option you choose, planning ahead and staying organized will make your move much easier! Ready to Find Your Next Home? Whether you're choosing a PPM or using military movers, securing housing at your new duty station is a top priority. Regardless of your type of move, you will want to stay organized and we highly recommend our veteran partners at Team BoxOps to help you pack effectively. When it comes to finding the perfect home, VeteranPCS connects military families with veteran and military spouse real estate agents who understand the unique challenges of PCS moves. Our agents can help you: Navigate competitive housing markets near military installations Maximize your VA loan benefits Find temporary housing solutions while house hunting Close on a home within your PCS timeline Connect with a VeteranPCS real estate expert today to start planning your housing needs at your next duty station! Share this guide with your military network to help others choose the best PCS moving method!
8/28/2025
Best Neighborhoods Near NAS JRB Fort Worth: Your 2025 PCS Guide
Getting PCS orders to Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB) Fort Worth? You're heading to one of Texas's most family-friendly military communities. Located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, this base offers military families access to excellent schools, diverse neighborhoods, and countless recreational opportunities. Choosing the right neighborhood for your family involves balancing commute times, school quality, housing costs, and lifestyle preferences. After researching the Fort Worth area and consulting with local military families, we've identified five outstanding neighborhoods that consistently rank high for military relocations to NAS JRB Fort Worth. Why Location Matters for Military Families Before diving into specific neighborhoods, it's important to understand what makes a great military community. According to Military OneSource, military families prioritize: Reasonable commute times to base Quality schools for children Safe, family-friendly environments Access to recreational activities Strong community connections The Fort Worth area excels in all these categories, with the Texas Education Agency ranking several local school districts among the state's best performers in 2024. Top 5 Neighborhoods for NAS JRB Fort Worth Military Families 1. Lake Worth: Your Closest Community Option Commute Time: 10-15 minutesBest For: Families seeking affordability and convenience Lake Worth offers the shortest commute to NAS JRB Fort Worth, making it ideal for service members with early morning duties or those who prefer more time at home with family. This established community provides: Affordable Housing: Median home prices approximately 15-20% below Fort Worth average Family Activities: Direct access to Lake Worth for swimming, boating, and fishing Community Feel: Small-town atmosphere within a metropolitan area Schools: Served by Northwest ISD, which earned a B+ rating from the Texas Education Agency in 2024 The proximity to base means more time for family activities and less stress during busy military schedules. Many military families appreciate the quick drive home for lunch or family emergencies. 2. Aledo: Small Town Charm with Big City Access Commute Time: 20-25 minutes westBest For: Families prioritizing top-tier education and community involvement Aledo consistently ranks among Texas's best small communities for military families. This charming town offers: Exceptional Schools: Aledo ISD earned an A+ rating from the Texas Education Agency, with 98% of students meeting state academic standards Housing Options: Mix of established homes and new construction, with larger lots than urban areas Community Engagement: Active parent-teacher organizations and youth sports leagues Safety: Crime rates significantly below state average according to Texas Department of Public Safety 2024 data Military spouses frequently praise Aledo for its welcoming atmosphere and strong support networks for families during deployments. Ready to explore Aledo's housing market? Connect with a VeteranPCS agent who specializes in military relocations! 3. Saginaw: Award-Winning Schools and Recreation Commute Time: 20-25 minutesBest For: Active families with school-aged children Saginaw offers an excellent balance of educational excellence and recreational opportunities: Top Schools: Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD earned recognition as a 2024 Texas Education Agency Distinguished District Recreation: Extensive park system with walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities Community Events: Year-round festivals and family activities Housing Variety: Options from starter homes to executive properties The district's strong STEM programs and military family support services make Saginaw particularly attractive for career-focused military personnel. 4. Azle: Lakefront Living with Modern Conveniences Commute Time: 25-30 minutesBest For: Families seeking outdoor recreation and housing variety Azle combines suburban amenities with outdoor recreation opportunities: Eagle Mountain Lake: Excellent boating, swimming, and fishing just minutes from home Housing Options: Both established neighborhoods and new construction developments Schools: Northwest ISD provides solid academic programs with military family support Community: Strong veteran population and military-friendly businesses Many military families choose Azle for the outdoor lifestyle, especially those with teenagers interested in water sports or fishing. 5. Fort Worth/Keller Area: Urban Amenities and Premium Education Commute Time: 30-35 minutes northeastBest For: Families prioritizing shopping, dining, and top-tier schools The Fort Worth/Keller corridor offers the most urban amenities while maintaining family-friendly neighborhoods: Premium Schools: Both Keller ISD and Northwest ISD earned A ratings from the Texas Education Agency Alliance Area: Major shopping, dining, and entertainment hub Housing: Variety from townhomes to luxury single-family homes Career Opportunities: Excellent job prospects for military spouses in corporate sectors This area works well for dual-military couples or families where the spouse has career ambitions in the Dallas-Fort Worth business community. Making Your Decision: Key Factors to Consider When choosing between these excellent options, consider: Budget: Use your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) wisely. The Department of Defense sets Fort Worth BAH rates at $1,890 for E-7 personnel in 2025. Schools: If education is your priority, Aledo and Keller areas offer the highest-rated districts, while Lake Worth and Saginaw provide solid options with shorter commutes. Lifestyle: Water enthusiasts might prefer Azle or Lake Worth, while families seeking urban amenities gravitate toward Fort Worth/Keller. Community: All five areas have strong military family networks, but smaller communities like Aledo and Azle often feel more tight-knit. VA Loan Benefits for Fort Worth Area Purchases Military families have significant advantages when buying in the Fort Worth market. VA.gov confirms that VA loans offer: Zero down payment requirements No private mortgage insurance (PMI) Competitive interest rates Flexible credit requirements With median home prices in these neighborhoods ranging from $250,000 to $450,000, VA loan benefits can save military families $15,000-$30,000 in upfront costs. Getting Started with Your Fort Worth PCS Move Moving to a new duty station involves countless decisions, but choosing the right neighborhood sets the foundation for your family's success at NAS JRB Fort Worth. Each of these five communities offers unique advantages for military families. Start your home search early – ideally 3-4 months before your PCS date. This timeline allows for house hunting trips, loan pre-approval, and coordination with your gaining unit. Ready to find your perfect Fort Worth area home? Contact a VeteranPCS real estate expert who understands military relocations and can guide you through the entire process! The Fort Worth area welcomes thousands of military families each year, and with the right neighborhood choice, you'll quickly feel at home in the heart of Texas. Share this guide with fellow service members heading to NAS JRB Fort Worth – every military family deserves to find their perfect Texas home! About VeteranPCS: We connect military families with experienced real estate agents and VA loan specialists who understand the unique challenges of military relocations. Our network includes agents in all 50 states ready to help with your next PCS move.
PCS Frequently Asked Questions
Am I disqualified if I have a bankruptcy or foreclosure on record?
How do I know how much I’m qualified for with a VA Loan?
How Many Times Can I Use My VA Home Loan Benefit?
Are There Closing Costs Associated with a VA Loan?
Can I Have Two VA Loans?
How do I apply for a VA guaranteed loan?
Employment
Transitioning Military
Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) connects the military community—service members, military spouses, and veterans —with American businesses to create economic opportunity and a strong and diversified workforce.
Hire Heroes USA provides free job search assistance to U.S. military members, veterans and their spouses, and we help companies connect with opportunities to hire them.
We've helped hundreds
Of military, veterans, & their families
Trista Allen
From a realtors perspective, VeteranPCS has always been amazing to partner with through the transaction, I have worked with them on the buying side and my clients are always satisfied with them. Responsive, informative, and amazing support for both myself, and my clients. I look forward to partnering with them in future transactions.
James Nicholson
Much better than the competition. Great communication and they don't give you lip service. They give you full service with veterans who knows their stuff.
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Calculate the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) amount you will receive at your next duty station based on location, pay grade, and dependency status.
active duty and veteran military spouse business owners tools and resources
The leading free, comprehensive, user- friendly directory of businesses owned by military veterans
It’s time to course correct. Veteran entrepreneurship rates plummeted in the 20th century.
VeteranPCS Trusted Resources
Trusted veteran and military spouse owned resources, businesses and organizations.
PCS Frequently Asked Questions
Am I disqualified if I have a bankruptcy or foreclosure on record?
How do I know how much I’m qualified for with a VA Loan?
How Many Times Can I Use My VA Home Loan Benefit?
Are There Closing Costs Associated with a VA Loan?
Can I Have Two VA Loans?
How do I apply for a VA guaranteed loan?
Together we'll make it home. Veteran & Military Spouse Real Estate Agents and VA Loan Experts You Can Trust
