Military Housing In Virginia Beach: Your Ideal Guide
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Military families stationed in Virginia Beach are in for a treat! This vibrant city, located along the Atlantic coast, offers a unique blend of community, culture, and convenience, making it an ideal place for military personnel and their families to call home. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about military housing in Virginia Beach, from options available to resources that can help make your transition as smooth as possible.
Understanding Military Housing Options in Virginia Beach
On-Base Housing
For many military families, living on base is a top priority. Virginia Beach is home to several military installations, including Naval Air Station Oceana and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek. Here’s a quick overview of the benefits of on-base housing:
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Community: Living on base allows you to become part of a close-knit military community. You'll have easy access to other military families, creating support networks and friendships.
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Convenience: Proximity to work, schools, and facilities like fitness centers and child care services makes on-base living incredibly convenient.
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Cost-Effective: Most on-base housing is subsidized, meaning you could save money compared to off-base options.
Off-Base Housing
If on-base housing isn't for you, Virginia Beach offers a variety of off-base housing options. These include:
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Apartments: With numerous apartment complexes to choose from, you'll find options that fit various budgets and family sizes. Popular areas include Town Center and the Oceanfront.
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Single-Family Homes: Renting or buying a home can provide more space and a sense of permanence. Areas such as Lynnhaven and Kempsville are great for families.
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Townhouses: If you're looking for a balance between an apartment and a single-family home, townhouses could be a perfect option.
Here's a table summarizing the primary housing options available in Virginia Beach:
<table> <tr> <th>Housing Type</th> <th>Benefits</th> <th>Considerations</th> </tr> <tr> <td>On-Base Housing</td> <td>Community, convenience, cost-effective</td> <td>Availability may be limited</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Apartments</td> <td>Diverse options, amenities, flexible lease terms</td> <td>Potentially higher cost in prime areas</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Single-Family Homes</td> <td>Space, permanence, family-oriented neighborhoods</td> <td>Maintenance responsibilities, variable pricing</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Townhouses</td> <td>Less maintenance than single-family homes, community feel</td> <td>Homeowner association fees</td> </tr> </table>
Important Notes
When searching for housing, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and priorities, such as proximity to schools, work, and recreational facilities.
Transitioning to Virginia Beach
The Move
Moving to a new city can be stressful, but there are resources available to help ease the transition. Here are a few tips to consider:
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Local Resources: The Military and Family Support Center (MFSC) offers resources and support to military families. They can assist with housing searches, budget planning, and community resources.
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Networking: Connect with other military families through social media groups or local events to gather information about the best neighborhoods, schools, and activities.
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Home Finding Services: Utilize professional home-finding services that specialize in military relocations to streamline your search.
Adjusting to Life in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach boasts plenty of recreational opportunities. The city is renowned for its beautiful beaches, parks, and outdoor activities, which can make it an exciting place for both adults and kids. Here are some local attractions:
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Beaches: With over 35 miles of coastline, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for relaxation, swimming, and beach sports.
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Parks and Recreation: The city has numerous parks, including First Landing State Park, which offers hiking trails and scenic views.
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Cultural Attractions: Explore the Virginia Aquarium, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, and local festivals that showcase the city’s vibrant culture.
Finding the Right School
For families with children, education is a critical consideration. Virginia Beach offers numerous public and private schools, along with various resources for military families. Here's what you should know:
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Virginia Beach City Public Schools: Known for their strong academic performance, the school district has programs specifically for military families, including “Student Transition Specialists” to help with school transfers.
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Private Schools: If you're looking for alternatives, there are several private and charter schools in the area, each with unique curriculums and extracurricular activities.
Important Notes
When considering schools, visit in person, if possible, to get a feel for the environment and talk to teachers or administrators about how they support military families.
Staying Connected and Supported
Living in a new city can feel isolating at times, but Virginia Beach has a strong military presence, which fosters an environment of support. Look for opportunities to connect through:
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Community Events: Attend local events and festivals, which often have military appreciation components.
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Family Support Groups: Many military installations host family support groups that provide social and emotional support for military families.
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Online Forums: Websites and social media groups dedicated to military life can be invaluable for finding advice, resources, and companionship.
Conclusion
Military housing in Virginia Beach offers a range of options tailored to fit the diverse needs of military families. With its welcoming community, rich history, and abundance of recreational activities, Virginia Beach is not just a place to live; it's a place to thrive. As you embark on this new journey, take advantage of the resources available to ensure a smooth transition. Whether you choose on-base or off-base housing, you're sure to find a place that feels like home.