Top 10 Best Duty Stations in the US Army
The US Army offers a wide range of duty stations across the globe, each with its unique characteristics, advantages, and challenges. While every soldier’s experience is unique, some duty stations stand out as more desirable than others. Here’s a list of the top 10 best duty stations in the US Army, considering factors like quality of life, cost of living, and job opportunities.
1. Hawaii - Schofield Barracks
Located on the island of Oahu, Schofield Barracks is a tropical paradise that offers an unparalleled quality of life. With its stunning beaches, lush greenery, and active volcanoes, Hawaii is a soldier’s dream duty station. The cost of living is relatively high, but the unique experience and breathtaking scenery make it well worth it.
2. Colorado - Fort Carson
Fort Carson, located near Colorado Springs, offers a great balance of outdoor recreation and urban amenities. The surrounding mountains provide endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring, while the city offers a thriving cultural scene and a strong economy.
3. Washington - Joint Base Lewis-McChord
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, located near Tacoma, Washington, is a favorite among soldiers due to its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. The base is surrounded by mountains, forests, and waterways, making it an ideal location for nature lovers.
4. Texas - Fort Hood
Fort Hood, located in central Texas, is a large and bustling military base that offers a great quality of life. The surrounding area is home to several lakes, parks, and outdoor recreation areas, making it perfect for soldiers who love the outdoors.
5. North Carolina - Fort Bragg
Fort Bragg, located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, is one of the largest military bases in the world. The surrounding area is rich in history and culture, with numerous museums, historic sites, and outdoor recreation areas.
6. Alaska - Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, located near Anchorage, Alaska, is a unique and adventurous duty station. The base is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including mountains, forests, and wildlife. While the cost of living is relatively high, the experience of living in Alaska is unparalleled.
7. Georgia - Fort Benning
Fort Benning, located in Columbus, Georgia, is a historic military base that offers a great quality of life. The surrounding area is rich in history and culture, with numerous museums, historic sites, and outdoor recreation areas.
8. New York - Fort Drum
Fort Drum, located in upstate New York, is a scenic and adventurous duty station. The base is surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains and numerous lakes and waterways, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
9. California - Presidio of Monterey
The Presidio of Monterey, located on the Monterey Peninsula in California, is a picturesque and historic duty station. The surrounding area is famous for its stunning coastline, scenic drives, and world-class golf courses.
10. Virginia - Fort Belvoir
Fort Belvoir, located in Fairfax County, Virginia, is a desirable duty station due to its proximity to Washington D.C. and the surrounding area’s rich history and culture. The base is surrounded by numerous museums, historic sites, and outdoor recreation areas.
🌟 Note: The ranking of the best duty stations can vary depending on individual preferences and priorities. These rankings are based on general feedback from soldiers and may not reflect your personal experience.
| Duty Station | Cost of Living Index | Average Home Price | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schofield Barracks, HI | 196.3 | $640,000 | $54,000 |
| Fort Carson, CO | 118.2 | $340,000 | $48,000 |
| Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA | 129.2 | $280,000 | $50,000 |
| Fort Hood, TX | 91.7 | $170,000 | $42,000 |
| Fort Bragg, NC | 94.3 | $180,000 | $44,000 |
| Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, AK | 146.4 | $380,000 | $56,000 |
| Fort Benning, GA | 88.2 | $140,000 | $40,000 |
| Fort Drum, NY | 102.2 | $160,000 | $45,000 |
| Presidio of Monterey, CA | 187.2 | $630,000 | $60,000 |
| Fort Belvoir, VA | 144.8 | $430,000 | $58,000 |
While every duty station has its unique advantages and challenges, these top 10 best duty stations in the US Army offer a great quality of life, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a strong economy.
In conclusion, the US Army offers a wide range of duty stations that cater to different preferences and priorities. Whether you’re looking for a tropical paradise, outdoor adventure, or a thriving cultural scene, there’s a duty station that’s right for you. By considering factors like cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life, you can make an informed decision about your next duty station.
