Welcome to Eglin Air Force Base!

Welcome to the Eglin Air Force Base resources page, your one-stop destination for information, support, and services for service members, their families, and civilian personnel. Located along the beautiful Emerald Coast Gulf of Mexico region of Northwest Florida in Okaloosa County, Eglin Air Force Base serves as the primary location for research, development, testing, and evaluation of air-delivered weapons, navigation, and guidance systems.

On this page and linked pages, you will find a wealth of information regarding available resources, including housing, healthcare, education, employment opportunities, recreational activities, and community support services. We understand the unique challenges that military life can present, and our goal is to make your time at Eglin AFB as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Whether you are new to the area or a seasoned veteran, we hope that this webpage will serve as a valuable tool in helping you navigate and make the most of the many opportunities available at Eglin Air Force Base.

This page was created by Air Force veterans and spouses supporting our community!

Eglin Air Force Base Location & Missions

Eglin Location & Statistics

Eglin Air Force Base, spanning over 724 square miles, is the largest Air Force installation in the world and is one of the most important military installations for air weapons development in the Department of Defense. It boasts a diverse population of more than 20,000 military and civilian personnel, with an additional 20,000 family members calling Eglin AFB home. Eglin sits smack dab in the middle of the Emerald Coast in Okaloosa County, right between Fort Walton Beach and Niceville Florida. If you zoom out, Eglin is located between the larger cities of Pensacola and Panama City, also touching Santa Rosa and Walton Counties.

The economic impact of Eglin AFB on the surrounding communities is significant, with an estimated $2.5 billion annually in direct and indirect contributions. The base supports approximately 38,000 jobs in the local area, making it a vital component of the regional economy. With its extensive land and air space, Eglin AFB is uniquely positioned to support the military’s mission of maintaining national security and developing cutting-edge technologies. The base is a hub of innovation and hosts the 96th Test Wing, which plays a crucial role in advancing the United States Air Force’s capabilities.

Eglin Air Force Base Missions

Some of the primary missions and units stationed at Eglin AFB include:

1. 96th Test Wing (96 TW): The primary unit at Eglin AFB, responsible for testing and evaluation of air-delivered weapons, navigation, and guidance systems. The wing also provides installation support to a wide array of tenant units and maintains the base’s expansive land and air spaces.
2. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL): The AFRL Munitions Directorate, based at Eglin, conducts research and development on advanced weapons technologies, including precision-guided munitions, advanced propulsion systems, and autonomous systems.
3. 33rd Fighter Wing (33 FW): The 33 FW is a graduate flying and maintenance training wing for the F-35 Lightning II, the Air Force’s fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft. The wing trains pilots and maintainers from the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, and international partners.
4. 53rd Wing (53 WG): The 53 WG is responsible for operational testing and evaluation of new equipment and systems proposed for use by U.S. combat air forces, such as electronic warfare systems, software, and avionics.
5. 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne): The 7th SFG(A) is a U.S. Army Special Forces unit responsible for planning and executing unconventional warfare, counterterrorism, and special reconnaissance missions. Their area of responsibility covers the majority of Central and South America.
6. Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal (NAVSCOLEOD): Jointly run by the U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps, NAVSCOLEOD trains military and civilian personnel in the detection, identification, and disposal of unexploded ordnance, improvised explosive devices, and other hazardous materials.
7. 20th Space Control Squadron: The 20th Space Control Squadron stands as a vigilant defender of our nations space assets. They play a crucial role in detecting, tracking and identifying space objects to ensure the safety and security of our space domain.

Top Things to Know Before Your Eglin PCS

When PCSing to a new base there are always so many unknowns, no matter the base. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a sense of what to expect to ease the transition? We thought so to, so our team has a list of the Top 6 things to know before PCSing to Eglin! Be sure to check out the Youtube video for a more in-depth explanation of this list!

• The Base Housing Waitlist is long. The waitlist varies from months to a year plus depending on the housing you qualify for. Once you have hard orders for Eglin get on the housing waitlist asap, even if you are unsure if you want to buy, or rent. This gives you another option incase you change your mind about buying or renting. Check out our Facebook group for monthly updates for the waitlist timeline.
• The Base Child Development Centers (CDC) Waitlists are long. These time frames can vary from two to twelve months depending on your priority. Single Parent Active Duty Military has first priority, followed by Dual military, followed by Single Military and working parent, and then Single Military and stay at home parent. Make sure you add yourself to the waitlist as soon as you know you are PCSing to Eglin.
• Off Base Rentals are hard to find. Rentals are just hard to find, especially pet friendly. Plus the rental rates are pretty high. Further away from base the easier it will be to find a rental.
• Temporary Housing is hard to find. This is even more difficult to find than rentals. Try your best to get TLF on base. You can always try to rent an AirBnB while waiting for a home to open.
• Drive times and Commutes. Driving time may take longer than you expect. We live where others vacation, so during peak tourist season traffic can be horrendous.
• The local housing market is unique and competitive. If you look at a map of Eglin AFB and the surrounding areas you can see there is a large area between Hurlburt Field & Eglin AFB that has no housing. These are test sites and ranges owned by the bases. What does that mean for the housing market? Well it means our market is competitive and homes hold value due to the lack of space to build more homes. That is great for the value of homes, but also make it more challenging when trying to find a home. Make sure you have a realtor who is familiar with our market!

If you have any questions or need help finding a home please reach out to our team. You can reach us here: www.facebook.com/group/panhandlepcs . We would love to answer your questions and assist you with your PCS!

Key Eglin PCS Move Resources

Eglin Air Force Base Lodging

Lodging for Eglin AFB can be booked either online or by phone. You make a reservation by phone by calling: 850-882-8761 or DSN: 872-8761 or to make a reservation online, visit their website at: af.dodlodging.net . Lodging may fill quickly, especially during peak PCS season, so be sure to make a reservation as soon as you can. There are some rooms that are pet friendly, but not many. If lodging is full, they can provide you with a list of local lodging facilities. 

Eglin DITY Move Weigh Stations

Doing a Personally Procured Move (PPM)? Previously known as a DITY move, there are several things you need to know about to ensure you are properly reimbursed for your move. One of them being, weigh stations. First of all you will need to know where weigh stations are to get a certified weight ticket. Make sure to get a weight of the empty container/truck and a full weight, once your belongings are packed inside. Try to ensure the fuel level is close to the same amount for both weights so it is most accurate.  Keep your receipts for the certified weight tickets so you can get reimbursement for those as well. The weight tickets will cost around $10, but some companies may charge more. Make sure to keep all of your receipts and weight tickets, you will turn these in with all of the remaining paperwork needed for your PPM move. (It is always a great idea to make a copy of everything to keep for yourself too!) Below you will find a list of local weigh stations.

Note that operating hours and availability of weigh stations may vary, depending on the location and season. Contact the weigh station ahead of time to inquire about their hours of operation. This will help you plan your travel route accordingly and avoid any unplanned stops or delays.

List of DITY Move Weigh Stations for Eglin Air Force Base:

• Waste Management 108 Hill Ave NW, Fort Walton Beach, FL (850)244-3970
• Loves Travel Stop 17750 State Highway 285 Dr, DeFuniak Springs,FL 32435 (850) 951-1067
• Weigh Station Eastbound 101 Florida 10, Pensacola, FL 32534  (850) 941-6028
• Weigh Station Eastbound 11001 Mobile HWY, Pensacola FL 32526  (850) 941-6050
• Weigh station westbound 7370 Florida 10, Grand Ridge, Fl 32442 (850) 482-1281
• Florida Dot scale 1845 Fl-95, Cantonment, Fl 32533
• Cat Scale 3225 W 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, FL 32534   (850) 471-9132

Where to Live Near Eglin Air Force Base

When receiving orders to a new base,  one of the first things that comes to mind is where you will live. When choosing where to live there are a few things to keep in mind, one being the distance you are willing to commute to work. Do you want to live close to the beach, or do you prefer a more secluded area? What we have found is that members who are stationed at Eglin AFB prefer to live in the following towns/cities, and here are a few reasons why.

• Valparaiso & Niceville– Just to the East of Eglin. This is the highest priced area to live near Eglin AFB. A lot of these communities have been renovated which adds to the value of the home. Short drive to Destin for activities and shopping.
• Bluewater Bay – One of the shorter commutes to Eglin is Bluewater Bay, it on average takes around 20 minutes (not including traffic) to get to Eglin. Close to Destin for shopping and entertainment.
• Shalimar – West of Eglin. A little more expensive than Fort Walton, but a little more developed similar to Niceville.
• Fort Walton Beach -One of the most popular choices for lower prices and also one of the shorter commutes, panning out to around 20 minutes (without traffic) to get to Eglin from FWB. FWB also has a lot of options as far as restaurants and shopping. Downtown FWB also has several local spots to check out and they do events downtown as well.
• Destin – If you don’t mind a longer commute, let’s say add another 10-30 minutes on to the FWB time (not including traffic) then you might want to consider Destin! Destin is a good choice for those who enjoy more to do. Destin has it all from beaches, nightlife, waterparks, activities for the family and tons of food options.
• Crestview – If you are looking to get the most bang for your buck, then Crestview may be your best option. With newer homes being built, you tend to get a larger home and more yard, but be aware the traffic can be rough, and it is a longer commute.

As you can see there are several options to consider when deciding where to live while stationed at Eglin. If you would like a more in depth explanation of the area, check out this video: https://youtu.be/nJ0S3At0ors . Also, feel free to reach out to our team so we can help you narrow down your search!

Eglin Air Force Base Homes for Sale

To see more homes for sale near Eglin Air Force Base, see this page.

Eglin Air Force Base Housing and BAH

Eglin Base Housing by Mayroad

Eglin’s base housing is managed through a company called Mayroad. The base housing waitlist is long, and changes quickly. If you want to live on base it is very important that you get your name on the list as soon as possible. Once you officially have orders you can contact Mayroad and begin the process to be added to the waitlist. Waitlist times can vary from 3-4 months to over a year depending on the type of home you qualify for. Mayroad housing is newer, build within the last decade.

Feel free to join our Facebook community where we update our members on the Housing waitlist monthly.

Updated Eglin Base Housing Waitlists: www.facebook.com/groups/panhandlepcs

Eglin Air Force Base Housing by Mayroad: https://www.themayroad.com/eglin-air-force-base-eglin-afb-fl/

BAH Rates for Eglin Air Force Base

Unfortunately, all military members and families would agree that the basic allowance for housing is too low for the cost of living in the area. That’s why the Military Home Team works hard to ensure the financial success of our clients! Here are current BAH Rates for Eglin AFB:

• E1 – E4 –  $2340 w/ Dependents | $2013 w/o Dependents
• E5 –   $2343 w/ Dependents | $2220 w/o Dependents
• E6 –   $2370 w/ Dependents | $2340 w/o Dependents
• E7 –   $2553 w/ Dependents | $2361 w/o Dependents
• E8 –   $2778 w/ Dependents | $2373 w/o Dependents
• E9 –   $2940 w/ Dependents | $2379 w/o Dependents
• W-1 – $2373 w/ Dependents | $2358 w/o Dependents
• W-2 – $2646 w/ Dependents | $2358 w/o Dependents
• W-3 – $2922 w/ Dependents | $2382 w/o Dependents
• W-4 – $2952 w/ Dependents | $2394 w/o Dependents
• W-5 – $2988 w/ Dependents | $2604 w/o Dependents
• O1E – $2595 w/ Dependents | $2367 w/o Dependents
• O2E – $2880 w/ Dependents | $2376 w/o Dependents
• O3E – $2955 w/ Dependents | $2388 w/o Dependents
• O1 –   $2346 w/ Dependents | $2337 w/o Dependents
• O2 –   $2367 w/ Dependents | $2364 w/o Dependents
• O3 –   $2913 w/ Dependents | $2385 w/o Dependents
• O4 –   $2997 w/ Dependents | $2565 w/o Dependents
• O5 –   $3048 w/ Dependents | $2697 w/o Dependents
• O6 –   $3075 w/ Dependents | $2907 w/o Dependents
• O7+ – $3096 w/ Dependents | $2952 w/o Dependents

Eglin AFB BAH Calculator

Access the DOD BAH Calculator here (zip code for Eglin is 32542): https://www.travel.dod.mil/Allowances/Basic-Allowance-for-Housing/BAH-Rate-Lookup/

Eglin Phone Numbers

Here are essential Eglin Air Force Base Phone Numbers:

• Housing Office: (850) 882-4533, Ext #3
• Privatized Base Housing: (850) 613-5050
• Lodging: (850)-389-4943 or (850)-882-8761
• Security Forces: (850) 882-2000     
• Airman & Family Readiness Center: (850) 882-9060
• Outdoor Recreation: (850) 882-5058
• Appointment Line: (850)-883-8600
• Commissary: (850) 609-3172
• School Liaison: (850)-882-4319
• Transportation Management Office (TMO): (850) 882-8331

Full Eglin Air Force Base Phone Directory: (Coming Soon)

Eglin Air Force Base Area Schools and School Registration

Moving to a new area with kids can be stressful, but there are resources available to help ease the transition. Okaloosa County Schools simplified the registration process, the first step is to create a parent account on the Focus Portal. Once you complete the account the portal will walk you through what is needed for registration. Please note, you will need a physical address in order to complete the registration process. You also have the opportunity to reach out to the School Liaison Officer on base so they can help guide you through the process! You can reach the Eglin School Liaison by phone or email, or stop by the office located below. 

School Liaison:

• Phone: 850-882-4319
• Email: Elaine.LaJeunesse@us.af.mil
• Address: 2549 Gaffney Road.,  Building 2579., Suite 6 The “Bubble Building” 

New Student Registration for Okaloosa County: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/page/registration

• Military Resource: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/page/military-families

New Student Registration for Walton County: https://santarosaschools.org/en-US/military-families

Eglin Air Force Base Child Development Centers & Area Daycares

CDC Waitlists are long, and are based on priority. If you are in need of childcare be sure to get added to the waitlist as soon as you know you are PCSing. Priority is based on military status and spousal military status.

Register for Eglin Childcare at: www.MilitaryChildCare.com.

Both CDC II and CDC III offer several options for children from the age of 6 weeks to 5 years. Both CDC’s offer full time options, space available hourly care, Florida Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK), and Parent Night Out’s on a monthly basis. Reach out to the CDC for more information.

Additional Resources: https://www.eglinlife.com/cdc/index.html | www.dafchildandyouth.com/ 

• Eglin CDC II:   850-883-7425 | Building 2782 Boatner Road
• Eglin CDC III:  850-882-5519 | Building 2781 Boatner Road

(Off base facilities coming soon)

Eglin Air Force Base Hospital (96th Medical Group)

Eglin Air Force Base has a fully accredited medical facility that provides a wide range of healthcare services. It falls under the 96th Medical Group, which is responsible for delivering medical care and support to the base’s military community.

The Eglin Regional Hospital offers comprehensive medical services, including primary care, specialty care, emergency care, surgical services, and diagnostic imaging. 

The hospital’s capabilities extend beyond routine medical care. It is equipped with advanced medical technologies and facilities to provide specialized services such as cardiology, orthopedics, women’s health, pediatrics, mental health, and physical therapy. They also have a pharmacy, laboratory, and radiology department to support diagnostic and treatment needs.

• Eglin AFB Appointment Line: (850)-883-8600
• Eglin AFB Pharmacy: (850)-883-9011
• Eglin Mental Health: (850)-883-8373
• Eglin Dental: (850) 883-8324/8325

96th Medical Group Website: https://eglin.tricare.mil/

Eglin Air Force Base Jobs

(Coming Soon)

Things to Do On and Near Eglin Air Force Base

Living on the Emerald Coast has so many amazing opportunities to be outdoors! Of course you are surrounded by some of the best beaches in the world, but besides the beaches what is there to do? Well there are other things to take advantage of. Below you will find some fun and exciting things to check out while stationed at Eglin AFB.

Air Armament Museum – Home of over 29 different aircraft from the WWII era through the present. This museum is dedicated to collecting and persevering the artifacts and memorabilia associated with the Air Armament Museum. The museum is open daily and is open for groups to visit.

Eagle and Falcon Golf Courses located on Eglin AFB – If you like golfing, Eglin has two golf courses for you to take advantage of! Plus on Sundays take advantage of discounted rates for family golf!

Destin – Only a short drive away from Eglin AFB and filled with unlimited things to do. Destin is loaded with tons of great restaurants, bars, beaches and activities. There are outlet malls to shop and it is home to Big Kahuna’s Waterpark. Destin has so much to offer for both kids and adults, so be sure to check it off your list.

The Eglin Beach Park – Although you have access to a number of beaches along the Emerald Coast, the Eglin Beach Park is only accessible to DOD Id card holders (Military personnel, veterans, family members & contractors/civilians & their guests). This beach is located on Okaloosa Island before the Destin bridge. Check on details and current hours of operation here.

Okaloosa Island Boardwalk – You can find all you need for your beach day at the local shops on the boardwalk. There are also great restaurants to stop in to grab a bite to eat, all while taking in the remarkable views of the Emerald Coast!

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park – Located on Okaloosa Island, the Gulfarium is a chance to not only have fun, but also learn all while making memories! The Gulfarium is a mixture of an aquarium, and also a research center, which opened in 1955. There are several discounts available, so be sure to ask!

Weather at Eglin Air Force Base

The temperatures at Eglin AFB can average from the 40’s to the 90’s throughout the year, although the humidity can change the way it feels outside. The summers are long here (majority of the year), with a lot of humidity and of course sun. Winters here are more mild, but can be cold and windy. If you are a beachgoer, or love the outdoors,  you will love the weather here like we do! There are plenty of days to enjoy the sun! 

More Resources

Need to find an Eglin AFB or Duke Field phone number, address or hours of operation? Check out these resources!

The Complete Eglin Phone Numbers Directory – Eglin Air Force Base Florida

Eglin Hurlburt Weigh Stations List & DITY/PPM Tips!

Duke Field Phone Numbers, Hours, & Address Directory

The Complete Eglin Base Housing Guide

Work with the Top Military Real Estate Team for your PCS

The Military Home Team is dedicated to helping you find your next home, or sell your current home. Our team is made up of Military veterans, and spouses, so we understand the PCS process because we have all experienced it ourselves. We are focused on serving our military members, and, we are dedicated to making the process as simple as possible.

Our lender partners charge no fees for VA loans, offer competitive rates and offer unrivaled service. Our Title partners also offer steeply discounted title fees for military families. Not only do we help our military clients find their next home, we also help support the local community by running a Facebook group that provides valuable information for military families, feel free to join the group here: www.facebook.com/groups/panhandlepcs .

If you want to work with the top rated Military first team, simply fill out this form and we looking forward to serving you!