When relocating as a member of the military, you’ve got a lot of logistical issues to deal with in a short time — not the least of which is finding a place to live. If you are reporting to Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama and you have the option of living off-base, it’s easy to be confused by the challenge of looking for homes to rent near Maxwell AFB — or even a place to buy. Lowder New Homes has been building homes in the Montgomery, Alabama area for more than six decades. We’ve worked with many military service people and their families, and we know the cities and neighborhoods near the base that are most conducive for the military lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best places to live near Maxwell Air Force Base.
Montgomery
As the capital city of Alabama and the most populous city near Maxwell AFB (home to 200,000 people), Montgomery is an excellent choice for those looking for convenience to the base. Montgomery has all the amenities you’d expect from a mid-size city, along with a healthy serving of southern hospitality. Enjoy dining at local hangouts like Southern Comfort and Dreamland BBQ — or fine dining at Central or Vintage Year. Enjoy family attractions like the Montgomery Zoo or the W.A. Gayle Planetarium. Take in cultural opportunities like the Montgomery Ballet and the Museum of Fine Arts. Visit historical landmarks like the Civil Rights Memorial and Dr. Martin Luther King’s former church and home, Dexter Avenue Baptist Church. Or take in a round of golf at one of several championship courses.
For military personnel, Montgomery offers a wide range of housing options in a diversity of neighborhoods. Best of all, you’ve got an easy commute — even the eastern suburbs of Montgomery are only a 30-minute drive to the base.
Neighborhoods to check out: Hampstead, Deer Creek, New Park, Stoneybrooke, The Ridge at Sturbridge
Prattville
Located just 10 miles northwest of Maxwell AFB along I-65, Prattville offers an excellent alternative for those who prefer its quieter, small-town charm to the busier vibe of Montgomery. This town of 35,000 people is nicknamed the Fountain City after its numerous artesian wells, and the Daniel Pratt Historic District features great shopping, dining, and a view into yesteryear with its many historic buildings and homes. There are plenty of places to enjoy the outdoors, including the Autauga Creek Canoe Trail, the Wilderness Park and Bamboo Forest, and Capitol Hill golf along the famed Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Prattville is also a very military-friendly community as many military families have been drawn here for its affordable homes and convenience to base.
Neighborhoods to check out: Hedgefield, Mountain Lakes
Millbrook
If you’re looking for more of a quiet country setting to call home, Millbrook may be the place for you. It’s a town of 15,000 located on the opposite side of I-65 from Prattville, offering the best combination of small-town charm and convenience to the city. The great outdoors is definitely the main attraction here, from the hiking and fishing of Jackson Lake Island to the wildlife and educational opportunities of the Alabama Nature Center. You’re also only minutes away from shopping and dining, and a short commute from Maxwell AFB.
Neighborhoods to check out: Cotton Terrace, Grand Park
Pike Road
Although Pike Road sits on the opposite side of Montgomery from Maxwell AFB, it’s still only about a 30-minute commute, and as it’s one of the fastest-growing communities in Alabama, there are plenty of reasons for military personnel and their families to consider living here. The Pike Road School District is in high demand as one of the newest and most innovative school systems in the state, which means many of the neighborhoods are family-friendly and great places to raise kids. You’re minutes away from many shopping and dining options, and nearby recreation options like hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and golf all add to the country-suburban feel of this attractive area. For all that Pike Road has to offer, military families are also impressed by the affordable home prices here.
Neighborhoods to check out: Woodland Creek
New Construction Homes for Military Personnel
When relocating to Maxwell Air Force Base, there are naturally plenty of opportunities to rent apartments or houses in these and other communities near base — and some even buy homes in the area. But another alternative to consider is to buy a new construction home in one of the area’s newer neighborhoods. While many military members assume it’s better to rent considering how often transfers happen, it actually makes plenty of financial sense to buy or build a new home. Here’s why:
- It’s more accessible than you think. New construction homes are eligible for VA loans, and depending on your rank, your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) can cover most or all of the payments.
- It’s more affordable than you think. New construction homes in this area cost about the same as existing homes — with a lot less upkeep and maintenance. Builders also can provide extra financial help with cash back incentives and preferred financing options.
- It provides a greater sense of stability. Military families often feel a sense of transience. Living in a new construction home can provide more “normalcy” for the military lifestyle.
- It’s a great investment, both short- and long-term. Given the rising home values here, if you do have to relocate out of the area, you’ll likely sell your home for a profit — or you can hang on to your investment and rent it out.
If you are a member of the armed forces considering buying a new construction home near Maxwell AFB, Lowder New Homes can help. We offer generous incentives for military personnel, our preferred lenders are experienced with VA loans, and we have certified Military Relocation Professionals (MRPs) on staff who can help facilitate your needs. To learn more, call us today at 334-270-6789.
