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U.S. Military Bases To Call Home: Our Top 5 Picks For Families
Choosing a duty station isn’t just about the mission — it’s where your family begins to flourish. Military bases have their own unique rhythm and features, from bustling neighbourhoods and strong school systems to nearby parks and recreational opportunities.
If you’re looking for a location that balances community, amenities, and quality of life, it pays to know which stations consistently stand out for families. Whether you’re planning your next assignment or just curious about life on or near U.S. military bases, read on for our top picks.
Fort Rucker In Alabama 
Fort Rucker, formerly named Fort Novosel, is nestled in Alabama’s lush “Wiregrass” region, surrounded by Daleville, Ozark, and Enterprise. The cost of living is notably low, and housing and utilities come in well under the national average.
On-base communities are managed by Corvias and offer modern amenities — like swimming pools, clubhouses, playgrounds, and community centers — without the hassle of yard maintenance or utility bills. Kids can attend the on-post kindergarten through fifth grade, then transition to local middle and high schools with convenient transport options.
With sandy Southern charm and a supportive community, Fort Rucker is a fantastic spot for families starting their military journey.
For those with extra storage needs while on base, check out affordable self storage near you on Rucker Boulevard.
NSA Mid-South In Tennessee
Located in Millington, just north of Memphis, NSA Mid-South serves as the navy’s human resources hub. Plus, it’s nestled in a community of more than 7,500 military, civilian, and contractor families. Its size, location, and role suggest strong infrastructure, making it a viable base for those balancing service and family life near a major metropolitan city.
If you need extra space close to home, check out our affordable self storage options in Memphis, or visit one of our storage facilities in nearby Tipton County, with locations in Atoka, Covington, and Brighton.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) In Washington
Perched near Tacoma and Seattle, JBLM is beloved by military families in the Pacific Northwest. Formed by the merger of Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base in 2010, it boasts excellent schools, flexible housing options, top-tier medical facilities, and plentiful outdoor recreation, from mountain hikes to weekend trips. Plus, the community is tight-knit and full of support networks.
Fort Carson In Colorado 
Known as “The Mountain Post,” Fort Carson sits at the base of Colorado Springs and boasts a mountain-backed setting that’s hard to beat. The base hosts a high percentage of families and offers move-in-ready housing, solid schools, and abundant family activities, like hot-air balloon festivals and state park adventures.
Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) In Texas
JBSA is the largest joint base in the nation. It was formed in 2010 when Lackland Air Force Base, Randolph Air Force Base, and the Army's Fort Sam Houston merged and quickly became a one-stop hub for mission and family life. The base offers military families exceptional community services, ample school opportunities with on-post options, and makes San Antonio’s affordable housing and culture easily accessible.
Self Storage You Can Rely On 
With frequent moves being part of military life, self-storage can be a game-changer. Here at Mini Mall Storage, we make it easy to keep seasonal gear, furniture, and household extras safe and accessible during transitions. Whether you’re stationed in Enterprise near Fort Rucker, Millington near NSA Mid-South, or somewhere in between, you’ll find storage solutions that help you settle in faster and live more comfortably.
Find self storage near you today!
FAQs
What makes Fort Rucker in Alabama a great choice for families?
Fort Rucker, nestled in Alabama’s Wiregrass region, offers a low cost of living with affordable housing and utilities. On-base communities include modern amenities such as pools, playgrounds, and community centers, plus easy access to schools and transportation, making it ideal for young families starting their military journey.
Why is NSA Mid-South in Tennessee recommended for families?
Located in Millington, just north of Memphis, NSA Mid-South is the Navy’s human resources hub. With more than 7,500 families nearby and access to city infrastructure, it combines strong community support with proximity to a major metropolitan area.
What makes Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington stand out?
JBLM offers excellent schools, flexible housing, and top-tier medical facilities. Families benefit from a supportive community and nearby outdoor recreation, including hiking, mountains, and weekend getaways around Tacoma and Seattle.
How does Fort Carson in Colorado support military families?
Known as “The Mountain Post,” Fort Carson boasts move-in-ready housing, strong schools, and plenty of family-friendly activities such as hot-air balloon festivals and access to nearby state parks. The scenic mountain backdrop adds to its appeal.
Why is Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) considered one of the best?
As the nation’s largest joint base, JBSA combines Lackland AFB, Randolph AFB, and Fort Sam Houston. Families benefit from abundant schools, comprehensive community services, and access to San Antonio’s affordable housing and cultural opportunities.
