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Veterans & Active DutyPublished June 4, 2025
3 Essential Things Military Families Need to Know Before PCSing to Joint Base Andrews
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PCS season is always a mix of excitement and stress, especially when orders are sending you somewhere as strategic—and busy—as Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. Known for its critical mission support to the President and other top U.S. leaders, Andrews is more than just a military installation—it's a hub of high-level operations, nestled just outside Washington, D.C.
Whether it’s your first PCS or your fifth, here are three key things you need to know before heading to Andrews:
1. Start Your Housing Research Early—Inventory Moves Fast
The housing market around Joint Base Andrews is tight and competitive, especially for families who want to live off-base. Southern Maryland suburbs like Clinton, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, and Brandywine are popular with military families for their proximity, schools, and community feel. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
• Base housing waitlists can be long, so apply early through the housing office: https://www.andrewsfss.com/housing.
• Rental homes near base often get snapped up quickly—consider connecting with a military-friendly local Realtor who understands VA loans and your timeline.
• Traffic is a factor! Commutes into D.C. can vary wildly, so location matters if you plan to work or explore in the city.
2. Understand Maryland’s High Cost of Living and State Taxes
Maryland is a higher-cost-of-living state compared to many other duty stations. From housing prices to groceries and taxes, the DMV (D.C.-Maryland-Virginia) area comes with a steeper price tag. Important notes:
• BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) in the Andrews area is relatively generous, but budgeting carefully is still crucial.
• Maryland state income tax applies to active-duty service members if you declare Maryland as your residence—unless you maintain a legal residence in a no-tax state. Make sure your LES (Leave and Earnings Statement) reflects the correct home of record.
• Don’t forget about vehicle registration and emissions requirements—Maryland has specific inspection processes if you bring a car from out of state.
3. Explore Resources for Spouses and Kids Early
Joint Base Andrews offers a solid network of support for families—but you’ll want to plug into those resources ASAP. What to check out:
• Childcare options fill up quickly—register early through MilitaryChildCare.com.
• For older kids, nearby Prince George’s County Schools have varying reputations—many families choose charter, magnet, or private schools depending on needs.
• Spouses can connect with employment and education resources via the Military & Family Support Center, including resume workshops, job fairs, and MyCAA funding opportunities.
• There are also veteran and spouse-focused real estate professionals in the area who understand the unique challenges of military relocation.
Final Thoughts
PCS'ing to Joint Base Andrews means being close to the nation’s capital and all the opportunities (and traffic) that come with it. If you prepare early, plan your housing and finances wisely, and connect with the right local support, your move can be smoother than you think.
Whether you’re living on base or settling in one of the nearby communities, there are plenty of resources and people ready to help you thrive in your next chapter. Being Active Duty for over 20 years, I understand the stress that comes along with PCSing. Let’s connect so I can make the process easier.
Sean Tavalozzi ~ Realtor
Whether it’s your first PCS or your fifth, here are three key things you need to know before heading to Andrews:
1. Start Your Housing Research Early—Inventory Moves Fast
The housing market around Joint Base Andrews is tight and competitive, especially for families who want to live off-base. Southern Maryland suburbs like Clinton, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, and Brandywine are popular with military families for their proximity, schools, and community feel. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
• Base housing waitlists can be long, so apply early through the housing office: https://www.andrewsfss.com/housing.
• Rental homes near base often get snapped up quickly—consider connecting with a military-friendly local Realtor who understands VA loans and your timeline.
• Traffic is a factor! Commutes into D.C. can vary wildly, so location matters if you plan to work or explore in the city.
2. Understand Maryland’s High Cost of Living and State Taxes
Maryland is a higher-cost-of-living state compared to many other duty stations. From housing prices to groceries and taxes, the DMV (D.C.-Maryland-Virginia) area comes with a steeper price tag. Important notes:
• BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) in the Andrews area is relatively generous, but budgeting carefully is still crucial.
• Maryland state income tax applies to active-duty service members if you declare Maryland as your residence—unless you maintain a legal residence in a no-tax state. Make sure your LES (Leave and Earnings Statement) reflects the correct home of record.
• Don’t forget about vehicle registration and emissions requirements—Maryland has specific inspection processes if you bring a car from out of state.
3. Explore Resources for Spouses and Kids Early
Joint Base Andrews offers a solid network of support for families—but you’ll want to plug into those resources ASAP. What to check out:
• Childcare options fill up quickly—register early through MilitaryChildCare.com.
• For older kids, nearby Prince George’s County Schools have varying reputations—many families choose charter, magnet, or private schools depending on needs.
• Spouses can connect with employment and education resources via the Military & Family Support Center, including resume workshops, job fairs, and MyCAA funding opportunities.
• There are also veteran and spouse-focused real estate professionals in the area who understand the unique challenges of military relocation.
Final Thoughts
PCS'ing to Joint Base Andrews means being close to the nation’s capital and all the opportunities (and traffic) that come with it. If you prepare early, plan your housing and finances wisely, and connect with the right local support, your move can be smoother than you think.
Whether you’re living on base or settling in one of the nearby communities, there are plenty of resources and people ready to help you thrive in your next chapter. Being Active Duty for over 20 years, I understand the stress that comes along with PCSing. Let’s connect so I can make the process easier.
Sean Tavalozzi ~ Realtor
Keller Williams Flagship of Maryland
Danmar Properties Group
Personal Cell: 203-233-8445
Main KW Office: 410-729-7700
Work Phone: 301-945-8697
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