South Texas offers military members and their families beautiful homes with unique character, natural surroundings and rich heritage. Major installations such as Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) and Naval Air Station Corpus Christi are located in the area with housing that ranges from single-family homes to high-rise apartments to meet the different needs of tenants. This guide explains what kinds of military housing are available, along with the benefits of each type, and how you can maximize your experience as a military family in South Texas.
Military Bases in South Texas: A Summary
There are several major military installations in South Texas, making the area a big one for service members. Joint Base San Antonio is the largest joint base in the Department of Defense and includes:
- Fort Sam Houston: The “Home of Military Medicine,” it specializes in medical training and support.
- Randolph Air Force Base Pilot and navigator training.
- Lackland Air Force Base: Home of the BMT (Basic Military Training).
And Naval Air Station Corpus Christi is a renowned training facility for Navy pilots. Not only do these installations provide jobs, but they also are the heart of military communities in the region.
Military Housing Types in South Texas
There are three main types of military housing in South Texas: on-base housing, privatized housing and off-base housing. Each is paired with features to cater to the individual needs of service members and their families.
1. On-Base Housing
But on-base housing is also a leading option for many families, because of the convenience and sense of community it provides. These homes, run by the installation’s housing office, are meant to accommodate families of different sizes and ranks. Key benefits include:
- Proximity to Work: Living on base means less time spent commuting, giving you more time for family (and yourself)
- Setup of Amenities: Residents have access to base amenities such as commissaries, fitness centers, and medical facilities.
- Security: Living on a military installation provides a level of security and peace of mind.
3. Privatized Housing
Privatized housing is a mix of the positives of military housing with the ambience of civilian neighborhoods. These homes are run by private companies under contract to the military, and tend to have modern design and amenities. Examples across South Texas include:
- Lend lease Communities: Homes available at JBSA.
- Hunt Military Communities: Family-friendly layouts and high standards.
By virtue of the fact that rent is usually based on the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rate, on-base housing can be a pretty good deal.
3. Off-Base Housing
This can also be done. You can find on-base housing if available and be flexible. And although it affords greater independence, it calls for careful budgeting and attention to commute times. Common locations near bases in South Texas:
- San Antonio: A leader in education and culture.
- Corpus Christi: A great place for families who love life on the coast.
Military Housing in South Texas Benefits
Military families, after all, can have particular advantages such as the affordability of South Texas, community support, and close access to top-tier facilities. Here are a few of the most these benefits:
Affordable Living Costs
South Texas has a lower cost of living than other areas of the United States. Military families often discover that they can do more with their dollars; especially, with the help of BAH.
So, then you have community and then you have networks of support.
We created a bond by living in military housing together. Family is forged in shared experiences, with thick bond networks that become critical in overcoming the complexities of military life.
Availability of Education Opportunities
South Texas has ranked schools, colleges and universities. Quality education opportunities available for dependents of military members include:
- Great public schools (North East Independent School District – San Antonio).
- It could also be higher education institutions, like Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.
Outdoor Recreation and Lifestyle
Outdoor activities abound in South Texas: You can explore the Texas Gulf Coast, hike the Hill Country. Military families can enjoy:
- Beaches: The Corpus Christi and Padre Island areas are popular destinations for sunning and swimming.
- Nature: The River Walk, San Antonio’s legendary waterfront promenade, offers an appealing way to spend time outdoors.
- Cultural Attractions: Explore historic landmarks like the Alamo and Spanish missions.
As you go through the Housing process
Home said finding the perfect property in South Texas starts by familiarizing yourself with your housing choices and your family’s priorities. Here are some ways to make the process easier:
- Contacting the Housing office: First, you will want to contact the housing office upon your base assignment. They inform about the options that are available
- Assess you’re BAH: Knowing your basic allowance for housing helps you narrow things down.
- Visit and Research the Neighborhoods: On or off base, visit and research neighborhoods to find what fits your family best.
- Use Resources: Many organizations, such as Military OneSource and the Automated Housing Referral Network (AHRN) can provide helpful tools for your housing search.
Tips for Military Families Moving to South Texas
Moving is never easy, but preparation helps make the transition simpler. Keep these tips in mind:
- Plan Early: As soon as you have received orders start your housing search.
- Consider Climate: South Texas is hot and humid, so know that if you are moving from a cooler region.
- Connect with Others: Reach out to military spouse groups in your area to network and learn more
Conclusion
The southernmost tip of our great state of Texas is one of the most welcoming environments for military families with costs of housing no more than that of the amenities surrounding them, and one of the most diverse cultures anywhere in the world. From on-base living to privatized housing communities, to those who want to live off base, the region has something for everyone. With the help of abundant resources and the thriving military community, families and service members can thrive in South Texas.