Airmen running in water
LIFESTYLE

A CAREER THAT
INCLUDES COMMUNITY

Everything You Need. Nothing Like You'd Expect.

When you’re in the Air Force, you’re a part of a community that’s a lot like civilian communities everywhere around the country. In fact, Air Force bases are basically self-contained cities with everything you need to live and raise your family.

Day in the Life

  • Day in the Life

  • Lieutenant Gail Muggil

  • Airman Sara Ortega-Corona

  • Airman Wesley Wilson

Housing

Most bases have full-size homes in residential areas on base for Airmen and their families. For those who are authorized to live off base, you’ll receive a housing allowance that can be used to pay for off-base housing.

To help you get accustomed to the military lifestyle, Airmen without families will start out living in dorms. Air Force dorms are similar to college dorms and have rec rooms, community kitchens, laundry facilities and oftentimes free Wi-Fi. All single Airmen in pay grades E-1 to E-3, and E-4s with less than three years of service, are provided unaccompanied on-base housing.

  • Airman in dorm drinking from a mug
  • Dorm kitchen
  • Dorm room layout
of

After you reach a certain amount of time living on base, you’ll be able to live off base if you choose. You’ll also receive a housing allowance depending on your rank and overall living needs.

  • Man and woman with baby
  • playground set
  • kitchen
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Amenities on Base

Most bases have a wide range of amenities, ranging from day care to golf courses. However, each base is different, and the amenities may vary.

*Not all amenities found on all bases

PERSONAL PURSUITS

Life as an Airman is more than a career. In addition to pursuing your passions, there are many benefits to take advantage of as well. Take a look at what these Airmen enjoy the most.

two airmen on flight line
female airman in hardhat
Airman in red tank top working out

work-life balance

Life in the Air Force requires hard work, but also allows time for your own pursuits. Typically, you can expect an eight-hour workday, leaving plenty of time to relax, recharge and do other things you enjoy once you change out of uniform.

For those in the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve, you’re able to serve part time one weekend a month while keeping your civilian career or furthering your education.

Airman on motorcycle
Airman with basketball
Airman with two children

LIFE ON DEPLOYMENT

Throughout your Air Force career, you can expect to be deployed out of the country at least once. The length of an Air Force deployment ranges from four to 12 months depending on an Airman’s specific job, location and mission requirements. However, even though you may be in a different country, you’ll receive similar benefits and accommodations you’re used to finding on base.

stylized map of world
Keeping In Touch With Family

STAY CLOSE EVEN WHEN YOU’RE FAR AWAY

Life in the Air Force can take you all over the world, and we know how important it is to make sure your loved ones are taken care of while you’re away. This is also why, no matter what, there are ways to connect with friends and family whether you’re deployed thousands of miles away or settling into a new base across the country.
  • No matter where you are stationed, there will always be communication options available (phone, email, video chat, etc.).
  • Enlisted and officer clubs feature a full calendar of social events for members, spouses and guests. Bases sponsor activities for toddlers to teens and generally have youth centers where children can spend time in a safe environment.
  • Airmen can take advantage of available space on Air Force aircraft when they wish to travel. We offer access to many international destinations as well as almost any state in the U.S.
  • No matter what stage you are in your Air Force career, you’re given 30 days of paid time off every year to enjoy however you please.
  • When you travel for work or have guests, you can take advantage of the on-base inn for rates that are less than what you’ll find off base.

LIFESTYLE FAQS

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