United States Air Force academy
KEY CONTACTS
Air Force Academy
Housing Management Office
6556 W Columbine Dr.
USAF Academy, CO 80840
PH: (719) 333-2247
(719) 333-3539;
(719) 333-9269
Air Force Academy
Family Housing
4609 W Bighorn Dr.
USAF Academy, CO 80840
PH: (844) 211-2666
Email:
AFAContact@huntcompanies.com
Airman and Family
Readiness Center
6248 West Pine Loop
USAF Academy, CO 80840
PH: (719) 333-3444
Most installation services will be available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. As always, call first to confirm hours and availability of services.
Helpful hint: Contact these offices early in the week during the morning time
About United States Air force Academy
Colorado Springs is home to a number of military installations and is an enviable posting! Fort Carson, Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, and the prestigious United States Air Force Academy are all located in this picturesque Colorado town. Did you catch that? There are THREE Air Force installations here. If there is ever a clue to a phenomenal standard of living, it’s that. As a bonus, U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks Colorado Springs in the top ten of their “Best Places to Live” list. Quality of life, job prospects, and affordability were key in their ranking of metropolitan cities. The U.S. Air Force Academy, home to the 306th Flying Training Group, graduates approximately 1,000 cadets each year, who receive a commission into the Air Force as lieutenants.
The history of Colorado Springs is rooted in the Gold Rush of the mid-1800s. Here at the eastern foot of the Rockies, you’ll still find evidence of wealthy mine owners in the grand Victorian homes near Cheyenne Mountain as well as of the eclectic and frontiersman’s spirit of the miners down in the foothills and surrounding plains. With more than 300 days of glorious sunshine a year, the dry climate and mellow seasons promote an extremely active lifestyle. Locals and tourists alike enjoy year-round outdoor recreation.
Want next-day Amazon shipping, Uber, and grocery delivery service? This area has all of the modern day amenities a city slicker can dream of. Being that it is a city, you may have to spend some time and really explore to find something that fits your BAH, but no worries! We’re here to help. No matter what area you choose, you’ll still be reasonably close to any other part of town. Most of your day-to-day needs are reachable within 15 to 20 minutes of wherever you choose to call “home.” With top-rated hospitals and treatment facilities, you won’t have to journey far for specialized services. As a bonus, if you’re searching for a bigger city, greater employment opportunities, or just a place to get away, Denver is only a little over an hour away!
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Nearby Neighborhoods
Briargate
About
If you ask people stationed in Colorado Springs about where to live, they are very likely to recommend Briargate. This is a fantastic area for families and is conveniently located near most installations. The “big brand” (and luxury brand) shopping is centralized here, and the area is bursting with amenities. Fantastic schools, tightly knit communities, larger homes set on bigger lots, and incredible mountain vistas make this a top contender for most families PCSing to the area.
Neighbors
Here in the suburbs, you’ll find a ton of military families, retirees, as well as the working class and professionals of Colorado Springs. This is a very popular area for the Air Force Academy because of its proximity to the school, but many find the commute to other installations reasonable as well.
Neighborhood Feel
Most of the homes in the area were built over the last 20 years. There was a boom in building in the 1990s, then a lull, but now you’ll find construction taking off again and spreading northward. This provides ample opportunity to find newer neighborhoods and a chance at personalized construction, if that’s what you’re looking for. The neighborhoods are very family-friendly and planned out in a way to foster a strong sense of community. Trails, parks, well-lit sidewalks, and mature and well-maintained landscaping are common. Some of the neighborhoods have a “cookie-cutter” feel to them, but newer construction is widely available as well. Homes here tend to be roomier and have more land as well as some variation in elevation—not just parcels of flat farmland. Some homes are set on hillsides, and most have stunning mountain views.
Neighborhood Info | Briargate
Points of Interest
● The Promenade Shops at Briargate
● Pine Creek Golf Course
Big Plus
● Briargate is bursting with new strip malls and outdoor shopping with all the brands you know and love.
● Because it is located near I-25, commuting south to Fort Carson and getting to downtown is easy.
● Briargate boasts an incredible YMCA and multiple parks, trails, and even skate parks.
● This area is part of the highly sought-after school district Academy District 20.
Things to Consider
● Though the commute to anywhere other than the Air Force Academy can be tough, families can access basic services like the commissary, military treatment facilities, and the BX located at the Academy.
Highlighted Areas
● Wolf Ranch
● Cumbre Vista
● Cordera
● Pine Creek
By the Numbers
● Population: 42,000
● Household Income: $96,284
● Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for a local market analysis.
School Scoop
● In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or in another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
● Briargate is zoned in the highly sought-after Academy District 20 (D20). This district con-sistently ranks among the top 10% in the state. D20 offers a robust selection of extra-curricular activities and athletics, International Bacca-laureate (IB) programs, and Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and even supports a healthy Home School Academy program (homeschooling is quite popular in Colorado Springs).
● District 20 offers eight high school options, including the popular Pine Creek High School and a unique Classical Academy.
East/Northeast
About
East and Northeast are situated between Central and Powers, which places them in ideal proximity to Peterson SFB. The farther north you go, the larger homes with more land and higher prices you’ll find.
Neighbors
There are moderate military populations in both areas. East is a popular choice for those stationed at Peterson SFB and Schriever SFB, while Northeast is typically home to those commuting to the Air Force Academy. Families are found in abundance.
Neighborhood Feel
Most of the neighborhoods in Northeast and East are older and charming. The 10- to 30-year-old homes are well maintained with mature landscaping. Some areas are hilly and some have views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range Mountains.
Neighborhood Info | East/Northeast
Points of Interest
● Pulpit Rock Park
● Palmer Park
● Templeton Gap Trail
Big Plus
● This area is conveniently located between Academy Blvd. and Powers Blvd., two main roads with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options galore.
● You can stretch your dollar a bit further here, but the price points tend to increase as you travel north.
● Two fantastic and highly sought-after school districts serve this area: Colorado Springs School District 11 and Academy
District 20.
Things to Consider
● Some areas, particularly in East Colorado Springs, can be hit or miss. We recommend not purchasing sight unseen in this area. Working with an experienced real estate agent can be of tremendous value in this market!
● Traffic can be heavy during peak times, and the lack of throughways adds time to commutes east and west. The main boulevards have generously placed traffic lights, and commuting south can be especially time consuming.
By the Numbers
● Population 112,000
● Household Income $57,800
● Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for
School Scoop
● In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or in another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
● East Colorado Springs has 18 primary and secondary
● Schools, including the Colorado Springs Charter Academy. Public schools in East Colorado Springs belong to Colorado Springs School District 11.
● Northeast Colorado Springs has 13 public schools., including Scott Elementary School. Public schools in Northeast Colorado Springs are in Colorado Springs School District 11 or Academy School District No. 20.
Highlighted Areas
● University Park
● St. Andrews
● Wagon Trails
● Old Farm
● Rustic Hills
● Village Seven
Monument
About
Monument is just north of the U.S. Air Force Academy, with Pike National Forest, rolling plains, and rocky foothills as its natural borders on the other three sides. It was originally established by homesteaders in 1865 and became a stop on the Rio Grande Railroad in 1872. The railroad brought commerce and more settlers, and the town of Henry’s Station was established, later to be renamed Monument after the nearby Monument Creek and Monument Rock.
Monument boasts a quaint downtown and thriving small business scene, as well as larger shopping centers with “big-brand” stores like Walmart and Home Depot. The restaurant scene has a local flare, but recognizable chains like Chili’s and Texas Roadhouse are also scattered about. It is also very convenient to Denver, which broadens entertainment and amenity options as well as employment opportunities for spouses!
Neighbors
This is a very family-friendly area, and Air Force Academy folks love Monument, as it is located just beyond the North Gate. This community has a historic, small-town feel, though it is rapidly growing. Homes are more on the pricey side, and you’ll typically find affluent, dual-income couples, retirees, and higher ranking military officers living here.
Neighborhood Feel
Being in the foothills, you’ll find some neighborhoods and homes on an incline amongst forested land and mature landscaping, and others on flatter ranges. Many homes have views of either Pikes Peak or the Front Range. An assortment of home styles can be found, and coexisting with wildlife is a part of life in this area. Monument is classified as a suburb, with most homes built between 1970-1990 and larger homes in abundance.
Neighborhood Info | Monument
Points of Interest
● Downtown, Monument Marketplace, and Jackson Creek Crossing
● Santa Fe Trail
● Pikes Peak Greenway
● Fox Run Regional Park
● Tri-Lakes Family Center YMCA
Big Plus
● Because Monument is so far north and provides such easy access to I-25, living here opens up employment opportunities in Denver for spouses. It’s less than an hour to Denver’s metro area and about two and a half hours to some of Colorado’s best ski resorts.
● Any military member can utilize services at the Air Force Academy, which boasts a fantastic commissary, MTFs, a BX, and collegiate sports.
● It’s only a 10- to 15-minute commute to the Air Force Academy.
● Monument students are assigned to very desirable schools.
Things to Consider
● This is a pricey area, and BAH alone is probably not going to be sufficient. Cost of living is also higher here than elsewhere in Colorado Springs.
● Commutes to Fort Carson are upwards of an hour, while Peterson SFB and Schriever SFB are even longer.
By the Numbers
● Population: 22,000
● Household Income: $129,000
● Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for a local market analysis
School Scoop
● In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or in another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
● Public schools in Monument are part of Lewis-Palmer School District 38.
● The Lewis-Palmer School District has five elementary schools, one middle school , and two high schools. D38 also has a charter school that serves pre-K to 10th grade students.
Highlighted Areas
● Promontory Pointe
● Jackson Creek
Northgate
About
Located east of the Air Force Academy, north of Briargate, and south of Monument, Northgate is a growing area with incredible mountain views and unmatched amenities. Its proximity to I-25 facilitates travel to shops, restaurants, and entertainment as well as trips to downtown Colorado Springs. There are luxury master-planned com-munities and golf course communities available here, along with quintessential Colorado Rockies vistas.
Neighbors
Some of Colorado Springs’ most affluent residents live in Northgate. The five-minute commute to the Air Force Academy draws many higher ranking officers along with dual-income military families.
Neighborhood Feel
Homes here are spaciously placed on natural, scrub oak-covered hills. The neighborhoods are replete with amenities such as trails, bird-enticing ponds, and views of the majestic mountains and the prestigious Air Force Academy. Preserves, parks, and hiking trails offer an abundance of outdoor activities. European-style architecture is prevalent (think estates and villas), but arts and crafts and Spanish-style homes are available as well.
Neighborhood Info | Northgate
Points of Interest
● Great Wolf Lodge
● Copper Ridge at Northgate
● Rampart Range
Big Plus
● Because Northgate is so far north and provides easy access to I-25, living here opens up employment opportunities in Denver for interested spouses.
● The Air Force Academy is only five minutes away and boasts a fantastic commissary, medical clinics, a BX, and collegiate sports.
● Northgate feeds to top-rated public schools.
Things to Consider
● This is a pricey area, and BAH alone is probably not going to be sufficient. Cost of living is also higher here than elsewhere in Colorado Springs.
● Commutes to Fort Carson are upwards of an hour, while Peterson SFB and Schriever SFB are even longer.
By the Numbers
● Population: 19,000
● Household Income: $124,000
● Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for a local market analysis.
School Scoop
● In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or in another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
● Northgate is zoned in the highly sought-after Academy District 20 (D20). This district consistently ranks among the top 10% in the state. D20 offers a robust selection of extracurricular activities and athletics, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and even supports a healthy Home School Academy program (homeschooling is quite popular in Colorado Springs).
● Academy District 20 includes several charter school options, including a unique Classical Academy.
Highlighted Areas
● Gleneagle
● Flying Horse
● Stone Crossing
● Wildwood at Northgate
● Pinecreek
● Black Forest
Northwest
About
Northwest is located exactly as its name describes and is an ideal location for those stationed at the Air Force Academy. Occupying the area between the mountains and I-25 and just north of Garden of the Gods, Northwest area homes are very desirable, and the supply can be limited. While still a reasonable choice for those stationed at Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, and Schriever SFB, living here will make your commute to those installations much longer.
Neighbors
You’re more likely to reside amongst dual-income families in this region. Upper ranking military officers stationed at the AF Academy love the area, and spouses tend to find excellent employment opportunities here as well as in Denver. Retirees also find refuge here.
Neighborhood Feel
There’s a great mix of old and new in this region replete with “old town” Colorado charm. There really isn’t a single prevailing home type; you’ll see either spacious new construction in a variety of architectural styles or ‘70s-style split-level homes. This area spans the foothills and the hillsides, where wildlife is plentiful and the vistas are stunning. Newer, master-planned com-munities boast themed playgrounds and parks as well as walking/biking trails.
Neighborhood Info | Northwest
Big Plus
● Shopping is abundant, and you’ll find all the brands you recognize and rely on (from Target all the way through luxury brands).
● You’ll have easy access to the Air Force Academy amenities—even if you’re stationed down south at Fort Carson or Peterson SFB. There’s a BX, a commissary, military treatment facilities, and all the collegiate sports your heart desires.
● Master-planned communities with parks, trails, and a variety of architectural styles ranging from craftsman, to cottage, to Spanish style were all built from the ‘90s onward.
● This area includes the most sought-after area school district, Academy District 20.
● Denver is quite convenient from here and northwest is a great place to live if the military spouse wants to try to commute to Denver for work.
Things to Consider
● This is a fairly pricey area for most families, and your money may not go as far.
● It’s a difficult commute to anything other than the Air Force Academy, so the closer you can position yourself to the main highways, the more time you’ll save.
By the Numbers
● Population: 87,000
● Household Income: $97,428
● Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for a local market analysis
School Scoop
● In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or in another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
● Northwest is partially zoned in the highly sought-after Academy District 20 (D20). This district consistently ranks among the top 10% in the state. D20 offers a robust selection of extracurricular activities and athletics, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and even supports a healthy Home School Academy program (homeschooling is quite popular in Colorado Springs).
● One of the more popular elementary schools in the Northwest area is Rockrimmon Elementary School. The public schools in Northwest Colorado Springs are in Colorado Springs School District 11 or Academy District 20. Make sure to verify the zoning directly with the district.
Highlighted Areas
● Cordera
● Rockrimmon
● Peregrine
● Pinecliff
● University Park
● Mountain Shadows
West
About
While the wealthy mine owners settled in their palatial estates higher up in the hills, the miners and railroad workers flocked to West Colorado Springs. This area is proud of its blue-collar origins and has remained true to its eclectic roots. Here, you would have found the saloons and shops that were the lifeblood of the old gold rush towns. Some of those pieces of history have been preserved and celebrated in Old Colorado City, which today is a large tourist draw. West is very convenient to Central Colorado City, the “downtown” area, and also near to natural wonders like Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs. If you are looking for homes on an incline, proximity to epic trailheads, and the classic Colorado lifestyle, this is your place.
Neighbors
The inhabitants of West Colorado Springs are as eclectic as the homes. Young couples and singles abound because of the proximity of Central’s shopping and nightlife. Diverse, young, hip, and trendy are all descriptors used to describe the area’s residents.
Neighborhood Feel
Rich in history and character, West has something for everyone. You can find elegant Victorians, quaint arts and crafts bungalows from the ‘20s-‘30s, mid-century ranches, as well as high-end new builds. Nearby quaint shops and restaurants sprinkle life here with its own local flavor.
Neighborhood Info | West
Points of Interest
● Garden of the Gods
● The Cog Railway
● Manitou Springs
● Old Colorado City
● Rock Ledge Ranch
● Glen Eyrie Castle
● Seven Falls
● The Incline
Big Plus
● Heritage and history abound!
● Parks, historic sites, tourist attractions, and natural landmarks are all nearby.
● Here you’ll experience mellow vibes and quintessential Colorado culture and landscape.
● Wildlife is a part of life on the west side of town. Bears, deer, bobcats, even the occasional moose and mountain lion sightings are quite common.
Things to Consider
● West has a very young, hipster feel, and some areas may not be as equipped for families as some other communities, so do your homework.
● Because of recent devastating wildfires, there is a lot of new construction mixed in with the old.
● The homes are fairly affordable for families, but families with children living in the area often attempt to opt into neighboring districts. It is possible to “choice” into other districts, but not guaranteed or even likely in some cases.
● A nearby neighbor to the west, Manitou Springs, has a high water table and 11 springs. Because of this, flooding is an ever-present concern and occurs often. Be aware of flood zones and prepare accordingly if you buy/rent near the springs.
● It’s worth noting that Manitou Springs is regarded as an unofficial hub of Colorado Springs legal weed industry
By the Numbers
● Population: 65,715
● Household Income: $51,200
● Median Home Value: Home values change rapidly in this market, so ask your real estate agent for a local market analysis.
School Scoop
● In Colorado Springs, you can “choice” into a different school in the district or in another district, space allowing, during the choice application window. The only way to guarantee admission to a school in your district is by residing within the district boundaries.
● The public schools in West Colorado Springs are in Colorado Springs School District 11. West Colorado Springs contains 7 schools, which includes Howbert Elementary, Jackson Elementary, Mann Middle School, and Palmer High School.
Highlighted Areas
● Old Colorado City
● Pleasant Valley
● Mesa Heights
● Gold Hill Mesa
● Crown Hill Mesa
● The Retreat at Cheyenne Mountain
Looking at relocating?
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7 Reasons You Should Consider Buying a Home
1. TAX ADVANTAGES
To encourage homeownership, the IRS has provided many tax breaks for owning a home. Credits may be available for specific home improvements, such as using clean energy or for qualified first-time home buyers. The way most homeowners see those advantages is through income tax itemization and deductions like mortgage interest and real estate taxes.
2. STABALIZE MONTHLY HOME COSTS
Owning your own house is one of the safest bets on stabilizing your monthly home costs. There’s no worry of rent getting increased significantly after each year of living in someone else’s home. Additionally, when you answer to yourself, there is no worry of landlord changes or unexpected lease termination.
3. HOUSE HACKING
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
4. Increased Privacy
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
5. Pets Are Welcome!
For those who choose to rent instead of buying, it can be extremely difficult to find rentals who allow for your
four-legged, furry friends. Landlords often require hefty pet deposits or place heavy restrictions on the number of pets and breeds they allow—if they will even allow pets. When considering quality of life, including beloved pets and the indoor and outdoor space available to them matters. Having the flexibility to include ALL members of your family as a homeowner is priceless!
6. Pride of Ownership
One of the greatest benefits of owning your own home is the pride of ownership that comes along with it. Not only are homeowners more inclined to take good care of their investment with routine maintenance and cleaning, but also they are free to make design choices ranging from hanging artwork on the walls, to paint colors, to customization of closets, electronics, and more. As military families who relocate frequently, having your home reflect who you really are feels important.
7. Safe and Stable Long Term Investment + Forced Savings
Owning a home has historically been one of the safest, lowest risk financial investments that tends to have long-term stability and success. As your home value appreciates and your mortgage balance decreases, what’s left is growing equity with an eventual paid off home. Making a monthly house payment is akin to setting aside a specific amount each month into a savings account—it’s a little difficult to access in the moment, but over time it can build into something significant in the form of equity.
FIVE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU IN YOUR RELOCATION PROCESS
Your PCS is underway!
The home buying and moving transition process has begun. Now what? If it feels like there are a million things to do, don’t fret because you don’t have to do them all yourself. During the relocation process, there are many service providers that can assist you in making your move a smooth one.
Consider these five resources to help you in the process
1. MOVING COMPANIES
Sure, the military offers transportation and relocation services, but many service members decide to coordinate the transfer of household goods themselves. Not only can you often earn money on the difference between moving costs and weight allowances, but you can be assured that you have more control over your belongings. Services that moving companies offer can range from delivery of boxes and pods for the “you-pack” model all the way to full-service logistics companies that will do all of the packing, loading, driving, and unpacking for you.
2. STORAGE
Whether you need to store your household goods for a few weeks until you close on your home or you decide that you have more stuff than square footage, storage companies abound. Sizes, conditions, and contracts vary widely so be sure to do your homework before you commit. Particularly in climates with extreme cold, heat, or humidity, it is important to consider using only climate-controlled storage to ensure the protection of your furniture and temporarily unused items.
3. TEMPORARY HOUSING
It is not uncommon for there to be a short gap of time during a military move between when you arrive at your new duty station and your new home being available to inhabit. No longer are hotels the only option for sticking out a few days or weeks during the wait. Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO) and Airbnb are great options to make you feel more at home while you wait for your home. In fact, why not take advantage of seeing your new city through the eyes of a tourist? Find a location near new local attractions and dining and enjoy a few days of getting to know the lay of the land.
4. USPS/IRS
Once you get settled in at your new home, it’s important that you alert agencies that will make sure your current and up-to-date address is on file. The United States Postal Service (USPS) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are two of the most important and by doing so, any important mail or documents in your name should be forwarded or sent along to your new address. It’s also a good idea to notify banks, credit card companies, and other debt collectors of a change of address. These days nearly all of these transactions can be handled online.
5. DISCARD & DONATE SERVICES
No matter how much you purge, toss, organize, minimize, or donate before you pack up the moving truck, it never fails that after you get unpacked on the other side there seems to be more stuff to declutter. Discard and donate services can help with this. Many are a phone call away and will happily come to your residence for a pickup. Others are structured where you simply drop off at a store. A lot of these services are charitable organizations and will offer you documentation for your own taxes based on your donation. It’s a win-win: you downsize by donating, and someone else benefits from your use of your items.
