Best Places to Live in Colorado Springs | Military PCS Guide Near Fort Carson & Space Force Bases

Moving to Colorado Springs on Military Orders?

If you just received PCS orders to Fort Carson, Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, or the U.S. Air Force Academy, one of the first—and most important—questions you’ll face is:

Where should we live?

Colorado Springs offers a wide range of neighborhoods, lifestyles, and price points. The right area depends on your base, commute tolerance, family needs, and long-term goals. Choosing incorrectly can cost you time, money, and unnecessary stress—especially when using a VA loan.

This guide breaks down where military families actually live in 2025 and why.

Best Neighborhoods Near Fort Carson

Fountain / Security-Widefield

• Commute: 10–15 minutes

• Why military families choose it: Affordability, proximity, strong resale demand

• Best for: Junior enlisted, first-time VA buyers, short PCS timelines

These areas remain some of the closest and most budget-friendly options for Fort Carson personnel.

Powers Corridor / Banning Lewis Ranch

• Commute: 20–30 minutes

• Why it’s popular: Newer homes, parks, schools, master-planned communities

• Best for: Families wanting newer construction and long-term appreciation

Banning Lewis Ranch continues to attract military families who want space, amenities, and growth potential.

Best Areas Near Peterson & Schriever Space Force Bases

Meridian Ranch / Falcon

• Commute: 15–25 minutes

• Vibe: Suburban, newer builds, family-oriented

• Why it works: Great value for square footage and VA loan buyers

Falcon remains one of the fastest-growing areas for Space Force families due to affordability and modern housing.

Briargate / Northgate

• Commute: 20–30 minutes

• Known for: Top-rated schools, safety, established neighborhoods

• Best for: Families prioritizing schools and long-term stability

These neighborhoods consistently perform well for resale and quality of life.

Best Communities Near the U.S. Air Force Academy

Northgate / Monument

• Commute: 10–20 minutes

• Why families love it: Mountain views, quieter lifestyle, strong schools

• Home styles: Single-family homes, newer developments, custom builds

Monument offers a small-town feel while staying close to the Academy and I-25.

Palmer Lake

• Vibe: Mountain town charm

• Best for: Buyers wanting privacy, character, and scenery

• Trade-off: Limited inventory, higher prices per square foot

Historic & Central Options (Lifestyle-Driven Picks)

Broadmoor / Old North End

• Commute: Varies by base (20–35 minutes)

• Why choose it: Character, mature trees, proximity to downtown

• Considerations: Older homes, higher maintenance, limited inventory

These areas appeal to officers, retirees, and professionals seeking charm over new builds.

Honorable Mentions (Outside City Limits)

• Woodland Park: Mountain living, longer commute

• Peyton: Space, newer builds, quieter lifestyle

• Black Forest: Acreage, privacy, custom homes

• Pueblo: Lower prices, longer commute—best for budget-focused buyers

VA Loan & PCS Tips for Colorado Springs

• VA loans work exceptionally well in this market

• New construction + VA loans = strong buying power

• Commute time matters more than most buyers expect

• Resale potential should always factor into your decision

Many PCS buyers focus only on price—smart buyers focus on location + exit strategy.

About the Author

I’m Daniel Padilla, U.S. Army (Ret.) Chief Warrant Officer and Founder of The PCS Team. I specialize in military relocations, VA loans, and Colorado Springs real estate, and I’ve helped hundreds of families move here successfully.

I’ve lived the PCS life—and I know how different this market can feel when you’re buying from another state or country.

Thinking About PCSing to Colorado Springs?

📞 Call or text: 719-900-6998
🌐 Website: LivingInCOS.com

Whether your PCS is in 9 days or 9 months, my team and I are here to help you move with confidence, clarity, and strategy.

If you found this guide helpful, check out our weekly videos and blogs covering military PCS tips, VA loan strategies, and real-time Colorado Springs housing market updates.