PCS to Keesler AFB: An Introduction to Biloxi and South Mississippi

Moving to a new place can be quite intimidating. The thought of relocating to a new environment can be quite overwhelming, especially if it is to a place you have never been to before. This is the case for those who have been assigned to Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi. 

Bryan David Broker, a retired military veteran, and owner of Expect Realty, is here to tell you that relocating to Keesler Air Force Base isn’t that bad. Located only a couple of blocks away from the Gulf of Mexico, Keesler is a great little base and home to the 81st training Wing, 81st Medical Group and 81st Mission Support Group. It also has an 18-hole golf course, harbor, and many other need amenities. 

Unfortunately, in 2005, Hurricane Katrina happened and destroyed much of the Gulf Coast, including Keesler Air Force Base. Thankfully, the base has completely recovered and rebuild to include the BX and commissary which are really nice facilities.

Keesler does have base housing but most of it is off base. The on-base housing is called Bayridge and is for Officers and Senior Enlisted. The two off-base communities are East and West Falcon which are just off base and Sand Hill which is about a 15-20 minute drive and located in Vancleave just off of interstate 10 exit 57.

There are numerous apartment complexes and single-family residents that have been converted into rental properties within a short commute to Keesler. There are also ample opportunities for those who are looking to purchase a home. Biloxi, Gulfport, Ocean Springs and D’Iberville are all within a comfortable commute. 

To search for the latest listing in the area click here.

The good news is that traffic on the Gulf Coast is tame, especially when compared to other locations around the country. Interstate 10 and Highway 90 connect most of the Gulf Coast and there are a couple of bridges that come across into Biloxi. Highway 90 in Ocean Springs and Highway 49 in Gulfport can get congested at rush hour and are best avoided if possible.

If you want to walk or ride a bicycle into base, there are several neighborhoods which are just outside the Southwest and East of the base. These are mostly older cottage style homes with mature trees and sidewalks. 

When considering homes for sale in Biloxi or surrounding areas, there are a couple of things that are unique to the Mississippi Gulf Coast market that you should be aware of. Insurance rates are high and the flood insurance program is aggressively raising rates on certain homes. Finding a home that does not require flood insurance is advisable. Additionally, termites are bad and a termite inspection is recommended and usually required. Also, we have a lot of gnats, the biting kind, and mosquitos which are most prevalent near bodies of water and marsh grass.

Overall, a PCS move to Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi isn’t that bad and quite frankly is a closely held secret of many military retirees. There are many activities, restaurants and entertainment options in the area. Plus, there are many great housing and commute options that will make your Tour of Duty here on the Gulf Coast a great experience.

At Expect Realty, we understand the unique needs of those relocating to Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi. Our experienced team of real estate agents are knowledgeable about the local real estate market and can help you find the perfect home for you and your family. Our CEO and broker is a military veteran and retiree who understands how disruptive a move is to our veterans and their families. We specialize in residential home sales in Biloxi and surrounding towns, and we are here to help you find your dream home. Give us a call at (228) 215-1861 and let us know you are a veteran planning a PCS move to Keesler and we’ll get the ball rolling for you. We have your back, just let us know how we can help.

To search for the latest listing in the area click here.

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