Military Relocation Guide: PCS Move to Phoenix, Arizona
PCS orders to Arizona? Here’s your complete guide to relocating to the Phoenix metro area — housing, schools, base info, and neighborhoods.
Military Relocation Guide: PCS Move to Phoenix, Arizona
Getting PCS orders to Arizona? Whether you’re heading to Luke Air Force Base, Fort Huachuca, or any installation in the state, the Phoenix metro area is one of the best places in the country for military families. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Military Families Love Arizona
Arizona consistently ranks as one of the most military-friendly states in the nation. Here’s why:
No state income tax on military retirement payProperty tax exemptions for disabled veteransOver 300 days of sunshine per yearLow cost of living compared to California and other western statesStrong veteran community with active VFW and American Legion postsExcellent VA healthcare facilities throughout the metro
Luke Air Force Base: What You Need to Know
Luke AFB is located in the West Valley, between Glendale and Litchfield Park. It’s home to the 56th Fighter Wing and is the largest fighter pilot training base in the Western world.
Key Details
Location: 14185 W Falcon St, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340Gate Hours: North and South gates operate 24/7Commissary & BX: Full-service facilities on baseSchools: Litchfield Elementary and Agua Fria Union High School districts serve base housing
On-Base vs. Off-Base Housing
On-base housing at Luke is managed by Corvias and includes single-family homes for various ranks. Wait times can be 3–6 months, so many families choose to live off-base.
Popular off-base areas near Luke AFB:Surprise (10–15 min) — Affordable, family-friendly, new constructionPeoria (10–20 min) — Great schools, parks, and diningGlendale (5–15 min) — Closest city, diverse housing optionsGoodyear (15–20 min) — Growing community with modern amenities
Best Neighborhoods for Military Families
Peoria, AZ
Peoria is a favorite among military families for good reason. Top-rated schools (Peoria Unified School District), beautiful parks, and neighborhoods like Vistancia and Lake Pleasant offer resort-style living at reasonable prices.
Average Home Price: $420,000–$550,000
Commute to Luke AFB: 15–25 minutes
Surprise, AZ
Master-planned communities like Marley Park and Sun City Grand (for retirees) make Surprise one of the fastest-growing cities in the Valley. It’s also one of the most affordable.
Average Home Price: $380,000–$480,000
Commute to Luke AFB: 10–20 minutes
North Phoenix
If you want to be closer to the action — shopping, dining, and entertainment — North Phoenix offers suburban comfort with easy highway access.
Average Home Price: $400,000–$600,000
Commute to Luke AFB: 25–35 minutes
Scottsdale, AZ
For those looking for upscale living, Scottsdale offers luxury homes, world-class dining, and outdoor recreation. It’s further from Luke but ideal for families stationed at other facilities.
Average Home Price: $600,000–$1,200,000+
Schools and Education
Arizona offers school choice, meaning military families can enroll their children in:Traditional public schoolsCharter schools (many highly rated)Private schools with military discountsOnline/homeschool programs through Arizona’s ESA program
Top School Districts Near Luke AFB
Peoria Unified School District — A-rated schoolsDeer Valley Unified School District — North PhoenixDysart Unified School District — Surprise/El Mirage
BAH Rates and Budgeting
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for the Luke AFB zip code (85309) varies by rank and dependency status. As of 2026:
E-5 with dependents: ~$1,800/monthE-7 with dependents: ~$2,100/monthO-3 with dependents: ~$2,400/month
These rates make homeownership very achievable in areas like Surprise, Peoria, and Glendale, where mortgage payments often fall within BAH.
PCS Move Timeline
60–90 Days Before Move
Research neighborhoods and school optionsConnect with a military-friendly realtorGet pre-approved for a VA loanSchedule a house-hunting trip (HTRS if eligible)
30–60 Days Before Move
Start home search remotely with your realtorArrange TMO/PPM moveNotify current schools and request records
0–30 Days Before Move
Close on your new home or sign a leaseSet up utilities (SRP or APS for electric, City of Phoenix/Peoria for water)Register vehicles with Arizona MVD within 30 daysGet an Arizona driver’s license within 30 days
Tips for a Smooth PCS to Arizona
Visit in summer before you commit — Arizona heat is real (110°F+ from June–September)Budget for cooling costs — Electric bills can spike in summer monthsConsider a pool — Most Arizona homes have them, and your family will use it 8+ months a yearConnect with the military community — Luke AFB has an active Spouses’ Club and Family Readiness GroupsWork with a veteran realtor — We understand PCS timelines, VA loans, and military needs
Let Us Help You Get Settled
The VA Real Estate Team specializes in helping military families find their perfect home in the Phoenix metro area. We’re veteran-owned and understand the unique challenges of a PCS move.
Call us at 602-554-8731 or contact us online to start your home search before you arrive.
