Military Relocation Made Simple on Florida’s Space Coast

Whether you’re PCSing to Patrick Space Force Base, retiring from military service, accepting a civilian DoD position, or relocating your family to Florida’s Space Coast, welcome.

As a USAF Gulf War Veteran and former Department of Defense contractor, I understand that military moves involve much more than simply buying a house. Every assignment brings new questions about neighborhoods, schools, commuting, VA financing, base housing, insurance, and finding the right community for your family.

This Military Relocation Resource Center was created to help military members, veterans, DoD civilians, and their families make informed decisions before arriving on the Space Coast.

Why Military Families Choose Florida’s Space Coast

Florida’s Space Coast offers a unique combination of military heritage, coastal living, strong employment opportunities, and year-round outdoor recreation.

Many military families choose the area because of:

• Patrick Space Force Base
• Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
• NASA & Kennedy Space Center
• Defense contractors
• Excellent beaches
• Highly rated communities
• Florida’s lack of state income tax
• Strong veteran community

Whether your assignment lasts four years or you’re planning retirement, the Space Coast offers opportunities for every stage of military life.

Patrick Space Force Base Housing Options

One of the biggest decisions you’ll make during a PCS is where to live.

Options include:

• On-base housing
• Buying near Patrick SFB
• Renting off base
• Beachside communities
• Melbourne
• Satellite Beach
• Indian Harbour Beach
• Palm Bay
• Viera

Each option has advantages depending on your commute, family size, budget, and long-term goals.

VA Home Loans

One of the greatest benefits earned through military service is access to the VA Home Loan program.

Benefits may include:

• No down payment (for qualified borrowers)
• Competitive interest rates
• No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
• Flexible credit guidelines
• Lower cash-to-close requirements

If you’re eligible, a VA loan can be one of the most powerful tools available when purchasing a home.

Buying vs. Base Housing

Every military family faces this question.

Should you:

Rent?

Live on base?

Buy?

The answer depends on:

• Length of assignment
• BAH
• Housing inventory
• Market conditions
• Long-term financial goals
• Future PCS plans

For many families, buying may offer the opportunity to build equity while using VA benefits you’ve already earned.

House Hacking for Military Families

Many military members use their VA benefits to purchase a duplex or small multifamily property, live in one unit, and rent the remaining units.

This strategy—known as House Hacking—can reduce housing expenses while helping build long-term wealth.

It’s one of the most overlooked wealth-building strategies available to eligible service members.

Living on the Space Coast

Military life extends beyond the installation.

Local communities offer:

• Beaches
• Parks
• Fishing
• Boating
• Surfing
• Family activities
• Great schools
• Local restaurants
• Community events

Finding the right neighborhood is just as important as finding the right home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a home before arriving?

Yes. Many military families purchase remotely using virtual tours, electronic signatures, and local representation but I strongly recommend getting to know the area, in person, before committing

Should I buy or rent during my PCS?

That depends on your assignment length, financial goals, and current market conditions.

Can I use a VA loan more than once?

Yes. In many cases, VA loan benefits can be restored or reused, subject to VA eligibility rules.

What communities are closest to Patrick Space Force Base?

Satellite Beach, Indian Harbour Beach, Melbourne, Melbourne Beach, Palm Bay, and Viera are among the communities many military families consider.

Military Relocation Resource Center