Relocating to Colorado Springs for a military assignment is exciting — but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming. Between choosing the right neighborhood, understanding commute times, and navigating our unique Colorado weather, it helps to have a clear roadmap.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know before moving to Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, or Schriever SFB — from housing and schools to lifestyle tips and the local market.
Whether you’re PCSing, coming TDY, or planning ahead for a future assignment, this is the guide you’ll want bookmarked.
Why Military Families Love Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs consistently ranks as one of the best military cities in the U.S. thanks to:
- Strong military community support
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
- Outdoor activities year-round
- Affordable cost of living compared to other Front Range cities
- Easy access to bases across the region
- Top-rated schools in many districts
With five major installations in or near the city, you’ll feel right at home quickly.
Understanding the Bases
Fort Carson
Location: South Colorado Springs
Known for: Large Army presence, strong family amenities, excellent on-post facilities
Fort Carson sits right against the foothills, offering beautiful views, quick access to trails, and some of the most convenient housing options in the city.
Commute-friendly areas:
- Fountain
- Security-Widefield
- Lorson Ranch
- Broadmoor / Southwest Colorado Springs
- Cheyenne Meadows
Peterson Space Force Base
Location: Central-east Colorado Springs
Known for: Air Force + Space Force missions, easy airport access, strong surrounding school districts
Peterson is located off Powers Blvd — one of the main north-south corridors in the city.
Commute-friendly areas:
- Stetson Hills
- Springs Ranch
- Banning Lewis Ranch
- Cimarron Hills
- Village Seven
- North Powers Corridor neighborhoods
Schriever Space Force Base
Location: East of Colorado Springs
Known for: Space operations, secure campus, longer commute from most areas
Schriever sits farther out from the city, but many neighborhoods still offer reasonable commute times with direct access via Highway 94.
Commute-friendly areas:
- Banning Lewis Ranch
- Meridian Ranch (Falcon/Peyton)
- Woodmen Hills
- Claremont Ranch
- Paint Brush Hills
Where Military Families Choose to Live
Colorado Springs offers a wide range of housing styles and budgets — from new-build master-planned communities to quiet acreage living on the plains.
Here are some top picks by lifestyle:
For Newer Homes & Community Amenities
- Banning Lewis Ranch
- Meridian Ranch
- Lorson Ranch
- Flying Horse
For Quick Commutes to Fort Carson
- Fountain
- Security-Widefield
- Cheyenne Mountain area
For Top Schools
- District 20 (North Colorado Springs)
- District 49 (East Colorado Springs)
- District 12 (Broadmoor / Southwest)
For Acreage & Privacy
- Peyton / Falcon
- Black Forest
- Eastern El Paso County
As a top-producing local Realtor®, I help many military families narrow down their options based on commute needs, lifestyle, school preferences, and budget.
PCS Checklist for a Smooth Move
Here’s a quick timeline to help your relocation stay stress-free:
60–90 Days Out
- Contact a local Realtor® familiar with VA loans and military timelines
- Review housing options (on-post vs off-post)
- Start paperwork and orders confirmation
- Begin researching school districts
30–45 Days Out
- Schedule virtual tours or pre-arrival showings
- Get pre-approved with a VA-friendly lender
- Decide whether to live on or off base
- Reserve movers or confirm DITY setup
Arrival Week
- Turn in documentation
- Check in with the gaining unit
- Tour shortlisted homes
- Explore nearby neighborhoods and amenities
Schools & Education
Colorado Springs offers strong public, charter, and private school options. Some highly rated districts include:
- District 20 (Academy) – exceptional ratings, north side
- District 12 (Cheyenne Mountain) – consistently top-ranked in Colorado
- District 49 – large district with innovative charter options
- District 2 (Harrison) – near Fort Carson with strong military support programs
- Fountain-Fort Carson District 8 – extremely military-friendly
Many schools also offer:
- Military family liaisons
- Counseling and transition support
- After-school and STEM programs
Understanding the Local Housing Market
Colorado Springs continues to grow steadily each year. Here’s what military families should expect:
- A strong pool of VA-approved homes
- Competitive but manageable market conditions
- Large concentrations of newer homes under $550k in District 49 and Fountain
- Quick appreciation in areas near Powers Blvd and Marksheffel
- Homes near Fort Carson and Peterson tend to move quickly
If you’re considering buying, starting early is key — especially during summer PCS season.
Lifestyle: What to Expect When You Arrive
Colorado Springs offers an incredible quality of life:
Weather:
- 300+ days of sunshine
- Low humidity
- Occasional snow, but it melts quickly
- Winds and sudden temperature shifts — welcome to Colorado!
Outdoor Activities:
- Garden of the Gods
- Pikes Peak
- Cheyenne Mountain State Park
- Countless trails, lakes, and parks
Local Favorites:
- Craft coffee shops
- Farmer’s markets
- Breweries
- Family-friendly festivals
🤝 Need Help With Your PCS Move?
Relocating to Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, or Schriever SFB doesn’t have to be stressful. With years of experience helping military families transition smoothly into Colorado Springs, I’m here to guide you every step of the way — from virtual tours to closing day and beyond.
