Military life can often be unpredictable. You may be stationed in a new city or country with little warning. This makes it difficult to find permanent housing in the new area and can cause you to scramble to find a place to live. There are two main options for military personnel when it comes to housing: on base or off base.
Here we will break down the pros and cons of each option so you can make the best decision for your family.
On-base housing
On-base housing is provided by the military and is available to active duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, and retirees. One of the biggest advantages of living on base is that it is often less expensive than off-base housing. Utilities and maintenance are typically included in your rent, and you may be eligible for a housing allowance to help cover the cost. Another advantage is that you will live in a community of other military members, making the transition to a new duty station easier. There are also many amenities available on-base, such as child care, gyms, and grocery stores.
However, there are some drawbacks to on-base housing. You may have less space than you would if you lived off base, and you may not be able to keep pets. Additionally, you may have to deal with noise restrictions and curfews.
Off-base housing
Off-base housing is any housing that is not provided by the military. This includes apartments, houses, and townhomes. When you live off base, you will be responsible for utilities and maintenance and won’t be eligible for a housing allowance. However, you will have more space and freedom when it comes to choosing your living situation. You will also probably be able to have any pet you want (if your landlord allows it). And you will be able to maintain your desired lifestyle without any interference.
Making the decision
When deciding whether to live on or off base, you should consider a few things. First, think about your budget and whether you can afford the monthly cost of off-base housing. If you are eligible for a housing allowance, this may help offset the cost of living off base.
Second, consider your commute. If you live off base, you will likely have a longer commute to work. This can be especially challenging if you don’t have access to a car. Finally, think about your lifestyle and whether on-base or off-base housing would be a better fit. If you want more space and freedom, you may want to consider living off base. However, if you are looking for a close-knit community and access to on-base amenities, on-base housing may be the better option.
At Freedom TDY Crashpad, we believe in providing luxurious and affordable military lodging near Randolph to service members. Our crash pad is owned by an active-duty military couple. We offer spacious bedrooms, fully-equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi, theatre rooms with surround sound, and even electric vehicle charging stations.
Contact us today for more information about our military accommodation near Randolph.
