For those preferring to live off-base, the surrounding areas of Glendale, Surprise, and Goodyear offer diverse housing options, from single-family homes to apartments. Living in these areas is relatively affordable compared to other parts of the United States, but starting your search early is advisable to find a place that meets your needs and budget.

PCSing to Luke Air Force Base: A Comprehensive Guide For Moving to Luke AFB

Are you preparing for a military relocation to Luke AFB in Glendale, Arizona? This guide has everything you need to know for a smooth move. We cover base housing and on-base amenities.

A permanent change of station to Luke Air Force Base offers significant benefits for service members and their families, making it an ideal choice for those undergoing such a transition.

Luke AFB is just 15 miles west of Phoenix. It has been training U.S. Air Force pilots since 1941 and has graduated over 61,000 pilots. The base is home to nearly 5,000 active-duty members and more than 6,500 family members who live in a friendly and supportive community.

Starting your PCSing to Luke Air Force Base journey means joining a vibrant community. We’ll cover life at Luke Air Force Base, including housing, education, and fun activities. We’ll also talk about getting used to Arizona’s unique climate.

Key Takeaways

• Luke Air Force Baseis a central training hub for F-35 and F-16 fighter pilots

• On-base and off-base housing options are available, with affordable living costs in surrounding areas

• The base is supported by excellent school districts and family services

• Numerous recreational facilities and proximity to Phoenix offer a wide range of activities

• Preparing for Arizona's desert climate is crucial for a comfortable transition

Welcome to Luke Air Force Base

Starting your PCS journey to Luke AFB means moving to the Valley of the Sun. This area is famous for its dry, moderate climate. It's in the West Valley of Maricopa County, Arizona, and is known for being modern and vibrant.

Base Mission and Host Unit

The 56th Fighter Wing at Luke Air Force Base is a key part of the Air Education and Training Command. Its main job is training the world's best F-16 and F-35A fighter pilots. The base trains over 400 F-16 pilots and 300 air control experts annually.

It also manages the Barry M. Goldwater Range, a vast military training area in the Sonoran Desert. The wing ensures pilots have top-notch training facilities and resources at Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field.

Personnel Category	Population
Active-Duty Personnel	4,599
Reservists	818
Air Force Civilian Employees	1,206
Students	1,200
Family Members	6,700
Military Retirees	68,900
Total Winter Population	85,200

Luke AFB has a population of 85,200 in the winter, including active-duty reservists, civilians, students, families, and retirees. It's a lively community that supports its service members and their families. As you prepare for your move, you'll join a friendly and dynamic community in the Valley of the Sun.

Housing at Luke AFB

When you move to Luke Air Force Base, you’ll find many housing options. Support services are available through the Military Housing Office (MHO) and other resources to assist you in navigating these options. These include both on and off-base choices.

On-base, Balfour Beatty Communities manages the privatized housing. It offers a cozy and handy living space for military families. Off-base, Glendale, Surprise, and Goodyear have a variety of homes at prices that are pretty good compared to other places in the U.S.

On-Base Housing Options

Luke Air Force Base has privatized family housing through Balfour Beatty Communities. They offer different neighborhoods for various family sizes. The housing has excellent amenities like:

• Community Centers

• Swimming pools

• Miniature golf courses

• Playgrounds

Rent is paid to the property manager from your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). Up to your BAH amount, utilities like gas and electricity are covered in the rent. Balfour Beatty Communities also provides personal property and liability insurance for each home.

For unaccompanied Airmen, Luke Air Force Base has housing for those in ranks E-1 to E-3 or E-4 with less than three years of service. There are 905 rooms in 11 permanent party dorms and one pipeline dorm. These rooms have sports facilities, lounges, and security.

Housing Type	Details
Military Family Housing	Two, three, and four-bedroom floor plans managed by Balfour Beatty Communities
Unaccompanied Housing	Available for unaccompanied Airmen in the ranks of E-1 to E-3 and E-4 with less than three years of service

Off-Base Housing in Surrounding Communities

Living off-base? Glendale, , and  offer many housing types, like single-family homes and apartments. These areas have lots of amenities and are pretty affordable.

The Military Housing Office (MHO) helps all DoD personnel find good housing in the local area.

When looking at off-base housing, consider commute time, school districts, and how close you are to shops and fun spots. With the MHO's help and some research, you can easily find a great home near Luke AFB for you and your family.

Education and Family Services

Getting ready to PCS move to Luke Air Force Base means your family's education and support needs are covered. The base is near top-rated school districts like the Dysart Unified and Litchfield Elementary School Districts. These districts offer great programs from kindergarten to high school and focus on providing quality education and a supportive place for military kids to learn.

The Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) at Luke Air Force Base is key for families moving here. It's at 7282 137th Ave, Luke Air Force Base, AZ 85309, and is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed on the third Thursday of each month. Call (623) 856-6550 for help with moving, job chances for spouses, budgeting workshops, and more.

School Liaison Program

The Luke AFB School Liaison Program helps military families adjust to new schools. It helps Active Duty, DoD Civilians, Retirees, Guard, Reserve members, and their families. The School Liaison Officer helps with:

• Special Education Navigation

• College, Career, and Military Readiness

• Grants and Scholarships

• Transition Support

• Parent Workshops/Resources for Military-Connected Students

• Special Needs/EFMP Resources

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)

The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) at Luke Air Force Base supports families with special needs. It's a must for military families with special needs. The program offers services like local support, education, and care plans. Two EFMP-Family Support coordinators help families by assessing their needs and offering specific resources and info.

Program	Services Offered
Transition Assistance Program	Initial Counseling, Pre-Separation Counseling, TAP Workshops, Capstone
Personal Financial Readiness Program	Financial education, counseling, and workshops to maintain financial readiness and build resiliency
Military & Family Life Counselor	Non-medical short-term counseling for Service Members and their families
Key Spouse Program	Family readiness program focused on enhancing mission readiness
Heart Link Spouse Orientation Program	Acquaints new Air Force spouses with the Air Force way of life and strengthens military families.

Luke Air Force Base puts a big focus on supporting military families. Your kids will get an excellent education, and your family will have the resources to do well during your stay at the base.

Community and Recreation

The living environment at Luke Air Force Base is highly appealing, with favorable weather, a prime location, and numerous entertainment options contributing to a pleasant atmosphere for those considering a permanent move.

Luke Air Force Base is a lively community and neighborhoods with many fun activities for service members and their families. The 56th Services Squadron runs programs for 93,000 people, ensuring everyone has excellent facilities and things to do.

Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities

Staying fit is easy at Luke AFB Military with its fitness centers, pools, and sports fields. You can find all kinds of workout gear, group classes, and personal training. The pools are perfect for cooling off, and the sports fields are busy with leagues and tournaments all year.

Library and Outdoor Recreation Center

Check out the library and outdoor recreation center if you want something more relaxing. The library has books, magazines, and more, plus cozy reading spots. The outdoor center rents out gear and plans trips for hiking, biking, camping, and exploring the Southwest.

Proximity to Phoenix and Urban Amenities

Being close to Phoenix is a big plus at Luke Air Force Base. This city is full of fun and culture. You can catch games by the NBA Phoenix Suns and the MLB Arizona Diamondbacks, among others.

Sports Facilities in Phoenix	Number
Tennis Courts	Over 1,000
Golf Courses	70
MLB Teams (Spring Training)	12

Phoenix is also known for its arts and culture. Many museums, theaters, and music spots have events all year. With so much to see and do, you'll always find something fun at Luke Air Force Base.

Preparing for the Arizona Climate

Preparing to move to Luke Air Force Base means adapting to Arizona's unique climate. The desert has hot summers and mild winters, which can be a big change for someone moving from a cooler place.

Phoenix, where over 4,777,000 people live, can reach over 100°F (38°C) in the summer.

• Drink lots of water all day, even if you don't like it. Carry a reusable water bottle and fill it up often.

• Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear protective clothes to protect your skin from the sun. Try to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day.

• Do outdoor activities early in the morning or evening when it's cooler. Take breaks in the shade or air-conditioned places.

• Most airlines won't ship pets from April to September because of the heat. Make other plans for your pets during your summer move.

Arizona's summers are hot, but the winters are mild. It's nice and cool in Phoenix from November to March, perfect for being outside. You can enjoy activities and see cities like Glendale, Surprise, Buckeye, Goodyear, and Avondale.

"I was surprised by how quickly I adapted to the Arizona climate. By staying hydrated, using sunscreen, and planning my days around the cooler hours, I found that I could still enjoy all the outdoor activities the area has to offer." - Staff Sergeant Emily Thompson, 56th Medical Group.

Remember, Luke AFB has a diverse population. This includes:

Population Group	Number of Individuals
Active Duty personnel	4,803
Reservists	1,408
Civilians	1,203
Family Members	6,700
Retirees	80,000+

Understanding the climate and taking steps to prepare will help you enjoy your time at Luke Air Force Base. Arizona has a lot to offer.

Transportation and Gate Information

Getting ready for your move to Luke Air Force Base? Make sure you know about the transportation and gate info. If flying in, you'll likely land at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, just 22 miles from the base. You can get picked up by your sponsor or use commercial services to get there.

Luke Air Force Base has three main gates: South, Lightning, and North. The South Gate is open all day, every day. The Lightning Gate is open from 0500 to 2100. The North Gate has limited hours on weekdays and is closed on weekends and holidays.

Directions to Luke Air Force Base

Driving to Luke Air Force Base is accessible from major highways. From the north or south, take State Route 101 and exit onto Glendale Avenue. Then, head west on Glendale Avenue to the base entrance. Or, from the east or west, use Interstate 10 and exit onto Litchfield Road. Drive north on Litchfield Road to the base.

Gate Hours and Visitor Information

Gate	Hours of Operation
South Gate (Main Gate)	Open 24/7
Lightning Gate	Open daily 0500-2100
North Gate	Limited hours on weekdays, closed weekends, and holidays

Visitors to Luke AFB need a DoD-ID sponsor to get in. The Visitor's Center is at the South Gate for easy access. The Lightning Gate Visitor's Center is open Monday to Friday from 0700 to 1600 and weekends from 0800 to 1300.

Knowing about transportation, gate hours, and visitor info will help you navigate Luke AFB easily. Whether flying or driving, the base's location and gates make getting around simple. Enjoy all the vibrant military community has to offer.

PCSing to Luke Air Force Base: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Moving to a new base can be exciting but challenging, especially with the PCS process. Follow some key steps to make your move to Luke Air Force Base easier. Plan early, connect with a sponsor, and look into housing and local resources. This will help you settle into your new location home at Luke AFB smoothly.

Planning Ahead and Connecting with a Sponsor

Once you get your PCS orders, start organizing early. This reduces stress and gives you time to arrange everything. It's important to connect with a sponsor from Luke Air Force Base. They can give you insights into the base, housing, and community. They also help with questions and guide you through the PCS process.

Reach out to your sponsor as soon as you get your orders. For more support, use the Relocation Assistance Program at Luke Air Force Base. This program is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It offers extra help and resources for your move.

Exploring Housing Options and Local Resources

When looking at housing, think about what your family needs. Luke Air Force Base has on-base and off-base options. Look at all of them to find what suits you best. Joining base groups or social media can connect you with others and offer support.

Get to know the local services on and off base to make your move easier. Research schools, healthcare, and fun activities in the area. You'll find many amenities and resources with over 250,000 people in Glendale, Arizona.

Base Resource	Description
Relocation Assistance Program	Offers support and resources for PCSing families, available Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Housing Office	Provides information on on-base and off-base housing options and assistance with the application process
Military and Family Readiness Center	Offers a variety of programs and services to support military families, including financial counseling, employment assistance, and personal development workshops
Child Development Center and Youth Programs	Provides quality childcare and youth activities for military families

Use these base resources and plan for a smooth PCS to Luke Air Force Base. This will help you and your family settle in nicely.

Luke AFB History and Notable Facts

Getting ready to move to Luke Air Force Base? It's key to know its rich history and interesting facts. Named after a World War I ace, Luke Air Force Base has been crucial in training pilots for decades.

Lt. Frank Luke and the Base's Namesake

Luke Air Force Base honors 2nd Lt. Frank Luke, a World War I hero and Medal of Honor winner. He was from Phoenix, Arizona, and got the "Arizona Balloon Buster" nickname for downing enemy balloons and planes. His courage and commitment inspire today's Luke Air Force Base personnel.

Luke AFB During WWII and the Cold War

During World War II, Luke Field was the Army Air Force's biggest fighter training base, training over 12,000 fighter pilots. After the war, Luke stayed open, training pilots during the Cold War, too.

The 58th Tactical Training Wing started at Luke Air Force Base in the late 1960s. It trained pilots for the F-4 Phantom II, F-15E Strike Eagle, and F-16 Fighting Falcon. When the Cold War ended, the wing changed its name to the 58th Fighter Wing, reflecting its new mission.

Year	Event
1941	Luke Air Force Base is built
WWII	Luke Field becomes the largest fighter training base in the Army Air Force
1960s	58th Tactical Training Wing is established at Luke AFB
1994	The 56th Fighter Wing replaces the 58th Fighter Wing

In 1994, the 58th Fighter Wing was replaced by the 56th Fighter Wing due to the BRAC process and the Air Force Heritage Program. Today, the 56th Fighter Wing trains top fighter pilots and maintainers. They use advanced aircraft like the F-35A Lightning II and F-16 Fighting Falcon.

"The mission of Luke Air Force Base is to train the world's greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready Airmen."

As you head to Luke AFB, remember its rich history and important role in military aviation. From its beginnings as a WWII training base to now, Luke AFB keeps the legacy of its namesake and past Airmen alive.

Conclusion

PCSing to Luke AFB means joining a lively military community in Arizona. The area has a sunny climate, various housing choices, and is close to city comforts, making it an excellent place for service members and their families.

There's much to do on base and nearby Phoenix and Glendale. You can enjoy the outdoors or try the local Mexican and Southwestern food. The area is welcoming to the military and great for retirees, too.

Are you getting ready for your move to Luke AFB? Plan and find a sponsor to make the move easier. Look into living options on and off-base and get to know the local resources. Luke AFB is ready to welcome you with its history, critical mission, and focus on local community. You'll find a great mix of military life and family-friendly living in Arizona.

Where is Luke Air Force Base located?

Luke Air Force Base is in Glendale, Arizona. It's about 7 miles west of downtown Glendale and 15 miles west of Phoenix.

What is the mission of Luke AFB?

Luke AFB's mission is to train "the world's greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready Airmen." It's home to the Air Education and Training Command. The base has 26 squadrons flying F-16 and F-35A aircraft.

What are the housing options at Luke AFB?

Housing at Luke AFB is managed by Balfour Beatty and is privatized. It offers various neighborhoods with great amenities. There are options for different family sizes, making it comfortable and convenient.

Off-base, you can find housing in Glendale, Surprise, and Goodyear. Choices range from single-family homes to apartments.

What school districts serve Luke AFB?

Several school districts serve Luke AFB, including Dysart Unified School District and Litchfield Elementary School District. These districts provide programs from kindergarten to high school.

What recreational opportunities are available at Luke AFB?

Luke AFB has a strong community focus and offers many recreational activities. Facilities include fitness centers, swimming pools, and sports fields. The library and outdoor recreation center are also available.

Arizona's desert landscape is perfect for outdoor fun like hiking, biking, and exploring nature.

What is the climate like in Arizona?

Arizona has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. Preparing for the heat is essential, especially if you're moving from a cooler place. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for cooler times of the day.

How do I get to Luke AFB?

If you're flying, you'll land at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Your sponsor or commercial transport can pick you up. Luke AFB has three gates: South Gate (open 24/7), Lightning Gate (open daily), and North Gate (part-time).

What tips can you offer for a smooth PCS to Luke AFB?

Start planning early once you get your PCS move orders to reduce stress. Connect with a sponsor for insights on the base, housing, and community. When choosing where to live, consider your family's needs, commute, and local amenities.

Joining base groups or social media pages can help you meet others and find support.

Who is Luke AFB named after?

Luke AFB is named after 2nd Lt. Frank Luke, a Medal of Honor winner and the U.S.'s second top World War I ace, known as the "Arizona Balloon Buster."

How long has Luke AFB been active?

Luke AFB has been active for many decades, training over 61,000 pilots since 1941. It was the Army Air Force's most significant training base during WWII, graduating more than 12,000 fighter pilots. Unlike some other bases, it stayed active after the war.