7 Must-Have Features in Military-Friendly Home Communities

Military families face unique challenges, especially with frequent relocations. Here’s what makes a community truly military-friendly:

• Proximity to Military Bases: Short commutes reduce stress and ensure punctuality.
• Good Schools: Look for districts with military student support programs like Purple Star Schools.
• Support Networks: National, local, and base-connected resources help families adapt.
• Move-Friendly Housing: Flexible leases, temporary lodging, and legal protections ease transitions.
• Cost-Saving Homes: Energy-efficient designs and smart home tech reduce expenses.
• Recreation Areas: Playgrounds, sports facilities, and year-round activities foster family bonding.
• Healthcare Access: Nearby military treatment facilities and VA centers ensure quality care.

These features create stability, reduce stress, and support military families through frequent moves.

Inside Colorado Springs: Where Military Families Are REALLY Living | Living in Colorado Springs

1. Distance to Military Bases

Living close to a military base is a top priority for service members and their families. The daily commute plays a key role in ensuring service members can report for duty on time, as punctuality is non-negotiable in the military.

Take rush hour near busy installations, for example – a short 10-mile drive can easily take over 45 minutes during peak traffic. Retired USAF E-7 Barbara Keck puts it plainly:

"You must be able to report for duty each day, so drive time sets the limit."

When assessing commute times, here are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Gate Access
  Bases with accessible back gates can make entry quicker and less stressful.
• Traffic Patterns
  Traffic congestion during peak hours varies widely by location. In Colorado Springs, for instance, the average commute time is about 22 minutes each way – well below the U.S. average of 52 minutes. Interestingly, nearly 80% of commuters in the area prefer driving personal vehicles.
• Alternative Transportation Options
  Some bases, like Marine Corps Base Quantico, offer convenient vanpool services. These services often include modern SUVs or vans, maintenance, insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and even a guaranteed ride home.

Doug Riggs, a former US Army Combat Engineer, offers a candid perspective:

"As long as you make it to formation every day, on time and ready for duty, no one cares. As soon as you start making excuses for being late, you would probably be ordered to live in the barracks."

For military families exploring new communities, tools like Google Maps can be incredibly useful. Checking commute times during peak hours can help you choose a location that supports both duty requirements and a healthy work-life balance. Once you’ve nailed down the commute, you can start focusing on other key aspects of the community.

2. School Quality for Military Children

For military families, finding a school district that understands and supports the challenges of frequent relocations is a top priority. It’s important to consider specific indicators and programs that cater to the unique needs of military-connected students.

School Performance Indicators

When assessing school districts, focus on metrics that reflect academic success and resources tailored for military children, such as:

• Test scores and graduation rates
• Student-to-teacher ratios
• Advanced Placement (AP) courses
• Special education services
• Extracurricular opportunities

Take the Davis School District in Utah as an example. They collaborate with the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs to offer targeted support for military families. Programs like the Purple Star Award and events such as Purple Up are just a few ways they ensure military students feel recognized and supported.

Military Student Support Programs

As of January 2025, 43 states have adopted Purple Star School designation programs. These schools are designed to meet the needs of military families by offering:

• Help with immediate enrollment
• Academic placement services
• Support for on-time graduation

"School leaders play an important part in helping these students maintain a sense of stability and stay on track to achieve their educational goals."

• AASA President Mark Bielang

Transition Resources

Communities that are military-friendly often provide robust support systems for families. Some of the most valuable resources include:

• School Liaison Officers (SLOs): These professionals assist families with school transitions and special education needs.
• Military OneSource: Offers free educational consultants and access to 24/7 online tutoring through Tutor.com.
• Interstate Compact Benefits: The Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children ensures consistent policies across districts, addressing enrollment, placement, and graduation requirements.

"Data about the experiences of military-connected students is essential. It helps define what unique challenges they may face and determine which supports they need, and it ensures that their families understand how schools are serving their students."

• Data Quality Campaign

When exploring potential communities, look for school districts that openly share military student data and have strong postsecondary outcomes. Schools with dedicated transition programs and staff focused on military families can make a significant difference. These factors, combined with other community features, are crucial for military families seeking stability and support.

3. Military Support Networks

Military-friendly communities thrive on robust support networks that assist families in navigating the unique challenges of military life. These networks include national organizations, round-the-clock resources, local community connections, and services tied directly to military bases.

National Support Organizations

National organizations play a vital role in supporting military families. Blue Star Families, with a membership of over 280,000 and outreach to nearly two million military and veteran families worldwide, is a cornerstone of this effort. Their initiatives, such as the 4+1 Commitment for military spouse success and the Nourish the Service program, address the critical needs of military families.

Another key player is the Military Spouse Advocacy Network (MSAN), which provides professional development opportunities like a Harvard Leadership Certificate, mental health micro-certifications, and peer mentorship programs. These organizations establish a strong foundation, which is further enhanced by localized and base-connected resources.

24/7 Resources and Support

For military families, having access to around-the-clock support is essential. Military OneSource offers a variety of services available 24/7, including:

• Confidential counseling
• Career guidance
• Financial planning
• Educational resources

"Military OneSource from the Defense Department is your 24/7 gateway to trusted information, resources and confidential help. When MilLife happens, it’s your ‘first line of support’ – giving service members and military families tools to stay well and thrive." – Military OneSource

Local Community Integration

While national resources are invaluable, local engagement is equally important. However, only 41% of military families report feeling a sense of belonging within their local civilian communities. Local programs and events help bridge this gap, offering tailored support and fostering connections.

Base-Connected Services

Base-connected services provide practical, day-to-day support tailored to the needs of military families. Military & Family Readiness Centers (M&FRC) serve as central hubs for these services, offering:

• Transition assistance programs
• Employment resources
• Financial readiness coaching
• Personal and work-life programs

"We empower families to thrive as they serve. We are committed to strengthening military families by connecting them with their neighbors to create vibrant communities of mutual support." – Blue Star Families

Together, these networks – national, local, and base-connected – make a meaningful difference in the lives of military families, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to navigate their unique journeys.

4. Move-Friendly Housing Options

Frequent relocations are a reality for military families, and many communities have stepped up to offer housing solutions tailored to these unique needs. Below, we’ll explore the legal protections and housing resources designed to make these transitions smoother.

Military Lease Protections

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and specific military lease clauses allow service members to break leases without penalties when faced with deployment or relocation.

Here’s a quick breakdown of key protections:

These legal measures provide the flexibility needed for short-term housing arrangements, ensuring families can adapt quickly to changing circumstances.

Temporary Housing Solutions

Short-term housing options are essential during transitions, and several resources are available to bridge the gap until permanent housing is secured:

• On-base Temporary Lodging Facilities (TLF): These cost around $164 per night and are conveniently located.
• Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): This allowance typically covers up to 95% of housing expenses, easing the financial burden.
• Extended-Stay Hotels: Many offer kitchen facilities and discounted rates for military families.

These options provide practical and cost-effective choices for families adjusting to a new location.

Permanent Housing Features

When it comes to settling into long-term housing, certain features make a big difference for military families:

• Flexible Lease Terms: Lease options ranging from 12 to 18 months align with deployment cycles, offering greater adaptability.
• Maintenance Support: Professional maintenance services help reduce the stress of upkeep, especially during relocations.

Cost Management Resources

Several programs are available to assist military families in managing housing costs and navigating local markets:

• Military OneSource: Offers housing counseling to guide families through their options.
• Installation Relocation Offices: Provide insights into local housing markets.
• Military Housing Offices: Help with on-base housing applications and related support.

These resources ensure families have access to expert advice and practical tools to make each move as seamless as possible.

5. Cost-Saving Home Features

Energy-efficient homes have become a key feature in military-friendly communities, offering long-term savings for service members and their families. These homes not only help lower monthly bills but also promote environmentally conscious living. Designed to withstand various climates, they lay the groundwork for advancements in home technology.

Energy-Efficient Design Elements

Military communities prioritize energy-saving designs that significantly cut utility costs. Features like high-performance windows, enhanced insulation, and energy-efficient appliances work together to reduce energy use.

At Naval Station Great Lakes in Lake County, IL, these upgrades are evident across 1,250 homes:

Hunt Military Communities’ Utility Expense Management Program has saved over $2.2 million by strategically implementing these energy-efficient features.

Smart Home Technology Integration

Beyond physical upgrades, smart home systems allow military families to better control their energy usage. These technologies include:

• Programmable thermostats for efficient temperature regulation
• Energy monitoring systems to track consumption
• Automated lighting controls to eliminate waste
• Smart appliances designed for optimized performance

Solar Power Solutions

Solar energy is another game-changer for military housing. At Tyndall AFB, solar programs saved nearly $70,000 in 2017, supplying over 35% of the community’s annual power needs. These savings have been reinvested into community enhancements, such as:

• Roof upgrades
• Improved playgrounds
• Upgrades to community pools

"We are very proud of the rooftop solar program and our ability to help enable the delivery of clean, renewable energy to the military families we are trusted to serve… Not only is this program supporting the energy initiatives outlined by the Department of Defense and Air Force, it is generating cost savings that are allowing us to make meaningful improvements to our military communities." – Ty McPhillips, regional project director of the Air Force portfolio for Balfour Beatty Communities

Low-Maintenance Design Features

In addition to reducing energy costs, military housing incorporates low-maintenance features to minimize upkeep expenses. Since families typically spend about 1% of their property’s value annually on maintenance, these upgrades help ease the financial burden. Key features include:

• Durable, easy-to-clean materials
• Weather-resistant exterior finishes
• Low-maintenance landscaping
• Updated HVAC systems with preventative maintenance plans

This combination of features ensures military families can focus on their service without worrying about high utility bills or constant property upkeep.

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6. Family Recreation Areas

Communities that welcome military families often prioritize spaces where families can stay active, connect socially, and spend quality time together. From modern playgrounds to year-round activities, these areas are designed to create an engaging and supportive environment for military households.

Modern Playground Facilities

Playgrounds are more than just play spaces – they’re hubs for family interaction and community building. At Fort Johnson, families can enjoy 14 playgrounds and 19 swing sets spread across three neighborhoods. Meanwhile, in Quantico, VA, Liberty Military Housing is investing $17.6 million into a state-of-the-art playground project in the Lyman Park community, set to open in November 2024.

Here’s a glimpse of what the project includes:

These upgrades ensure that families have access to safe, engaging, and inclusive recreational spaces.

Sports and Fitness Facilities

For military families without on-base gym access, the YMCA Military Outreach Initiative steps in, offering gym memberships and childcare services. To stay enrolled, families need to visit at least eight times a month. Beyond fitness centers, many communities host events that encourage families to stay active together, adding another layer of recreation and bonding.

Community Events and Activities

Organized events play a big role in bringing families together. In 2024, the National Park Trust hosted 29 events that involved 250 military families. Activities ranged from exploring marine life to outdoor adventures:

"Staying healthy and fit can be fun. It’s also a wonderful way to bond with your family and community. Military OneSource offers resources that can help you begin or sustain your path to a healthier you. And you might have some fun along the way." – Military OneSource

These programs not only promote physical activity but also create lasting memories for families.

Year-Round Recreation Options

Some facilities go above and beyond to ensure fun isn’t limited by the season. Fort Stewart’s Corkan Recreation Area, for example, features an indoor fun center, splash pad, multi-level play structures, and an adventure mini golf course. These year-round options make it easy for families to stay engaged, no matter the weather.

7. Medical Facilities Access

Having access to quality healthcare close to home is a cornerstone for military families. The VA health care system, with over 1,200 care locations and serving nearly 9 million veterans annually, stands as the largest integrated healthcare network in the United States.

Military Treatment Facilities

Military hospitals and clinics, commonly referred to as Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs), are at the heart of healthcare services in military-friendly areas. These facilities are designed to provide care specifically tailored to the needs of service members and their families. TRICARE offers a helpful tool to locate MTFs by zip code, name, or specialty.

VA Medical Centers and Community Care

Veterans benefit from a vast network of VA medical centers offering a wide range of healthcare services:

When VA facilities cannot provide certain services, the VA’s community care program steps in. This program ensures veterans receive care in cases such as:

• Services unavailable at VA facilities
• Veterans living in states without full-service VA facilities
• Long drive times or excessive wait periods

This combination of resources ensures veterans have access to necessary medical support, even in challenging circumstances.

Fisher House Support

The Fisher House Foundation provides a vital resource for families during medical treatment. As of June 2024, the foundation is expanding its network to 100 locations, offering accommodations for over 1,400 military and veteran families each night. These homes allow families to stay free of charge while their loved ones receive care at military or VA medical centers, easing the burden during difficult times.

Veterans Community Living Centers

For veterans requiring long-term care, Veterans Community Living Centers deliver comprehensive services. Below is a snapshot of daily rates at select facilities:

These centers consistently provide above-average registered nurse staffing hours per resident per day, ensuring quality care for veterans with long-term medical needs.

Healthcare Coverage Considerations

Military children often face unique health challenges, with studies indicating a higher likelihood of special health or mental health needs. To address this, many families rely on a combination of TRICARE and Medicaid coverage. Approximately 10% of children in active-duty families are covered by both programs.

In 2021, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) served about 6.8 million veterans, with an average spending of $14,750 per veteran patient. This substantial investment underscores the dedication to ensuring accessible and effective healthcare for military communities.

Community Features Comparison

Explore the key aspects of military-friendly communities to make well-informed decisions.

Travel Times and Accessibility

In Colorado Springs, the average commute clocks in at just 22 minutes – much shorter than the national average of 52 minutes. For those stationed at Fort Carson, downtown Colorado Springs is only about 10 miles away, translating to an average 17-minute drive to the main gate. Roughly 80% of residents in the area rely on their personal vehicles, with about 11% opting for carpools. Of course, actual travel times can vary. Beyond accessibility, educational resources also play a critical role in evaluating these communities.

Educational Resources

The Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children provides consistent support for families, ensuring smooth enrollment and placement processes for children. Many local school districts also offer tailored assistance to meet the unique needs of military families.

Community Amenities

Military-friendly neighborhoods often feature parks, scenic recreational trails, and access to Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs, creating a welcoming and active environment.

"Make sure to take advantage of the beautiful views and parks. This is one of the most beautiful places we’ve lived in, and I’m constantly awed by the mountain view from my own backyard."

These amenities contribute to a strong sense of belonging, but it’s equally important to weigh cost factors when choosing a community.

Cost Considerations

For military families, affordability and housing features are often key to maintaining stability and quality of life. For example, Pueblo West offers a more budget-friendly cost of living compared to larger cities like Colorado Springs. Factors such as home size, energy-efficient designs, and access to shared community spaces can influence your decision. Take the time to evaluate these elements to find a community that aligns with your financial and lifestyle goals.

Summary

Military-friendly home communities play a crucial role in supporting military families as they face frequent relocations. These communities enhance family readiness and promote overall well-being. With half of Army Soldiers married and 40% having children, such communities provide much-needed stability through features like proximity to bases, strong support networks, adaptable housing options, and accessible healthcare services.

Studies indicate that service members with solid family support are more likely to stay in the military. This highlights how thoughtfully designed community features can ease the challenges of frequent transitions.

To make the most of these benefits, families should tap into resources like Military OneSource and local Military and Family Support Centers. By using these tools, military families can find stability and stay focused on their missions.

FAQs

What legal rights do military families have to break a lease when relocating or deploying?

Military families benefit from protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), which gives them the right to break a lease without facing penalties if they receive deployment orders or a permanent change of station (PCS). To take advantage of this, they must provide their landlord with written notice and a copy of their military orders. Ideally, this should be done at least 30 days before the desired termination date.

This protection covers leases signed either before or during active duty, as long as the service member is set to serve on active duty for at least 90 days. Once the lease is terminated, landlords must refund any unearned rent and return the security deposit. These measures help ease the burden on military families, allowing them to move without added financial stress.

What are Purple Star Schools, and how do they help military families during relocations?

What Are Purple Star Schools?

Purple Star Schools are specially designated institutions that cater to the unique needs of military-connected children. These schools are equipped with resources and programs aimed at helping students handle the challenges of frequent relocations. From easing transitions to ensuring academic continuity and fostering social connections, Purple Star Schools work to create a supportive environment for children adjusting to new communities.

For military families, finding a community with Purple Star Schools can make a huge difference. These schools understand the specific hurdles military children face and are committed to providing an education that meets those needs. With over 1.1 million military-connected students across the U.S., Purple Star Schools play an essential role in offering stability and support during periods of change.

How do support networks help military families settle into new communities?

Support networks are incredibly important for military families as they settle into new communities. They offer emotional support, practical tools, and access to crucial services like job placement programs, educational opportunities, and mental health resources. These networks help families feel at home, ease feelings of isolation, and open doors to building meaningful connections.

Local events, veteran organizations, and community groups also play a big part in helping military families manage the challenges of constant moves. By creating a sense of belonging and stability, these networks give families the foundation they need to adjust and succeed in their new surroundings.

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