(Jun 7, 2023)
This guide offers an overview of Patrick Air Force Base and the surrounding communities, including what military personnel should expect when buying a home off base. We'll also highlight some of the best communities to consider when buying a home.
An Overview of Patrick Air Force Base
Patrick Air Force Base is located on the east coast of Florida near Cocoa Beach, directly adjacent to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. It has been an active military installation since 1940, when it first opened as a Naval Auxiliary Landing Field, and was later acquired by the United States Army in 1942.
After World War II ended, the military base became known as Patrick Air Force Base (PAFB) in 1948 and was used primarily for military aircraft testing and missile launches. Today, PAFB is a central military hub specializing in space launch operations and supporting other military units worldwide.
Living Off Base Near Patrick Air Force Base
There are plenty of housing options for military personnel looking to live off-base in the surrounding communities near PAFB. And for those who make this area their home, there are many things to enjoy. Here are some of them.
Gorgeous Landscapes
The Sunshine State is one of America's most beautiful regions, and military personnel stationed at Patrick Air Force Base can enjoy all the natural beauty of Florida's stunning landscapes.
The lush greenery of nearby forests, the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and the sandy beaches make living off-base near PAFB an incredibly rewarding experience. Military personnel can enjoy a peaceful getaway whenever needed, thanks to miles of nature trails and recreational areas.
Pleasant Climate All Year Round
The subtropical climate of Florida means military personnel living off base can enjoy mild winters and hot, sunny summers all year round. During the summer, you can enjoy fun in the sun at nearby beaches or escape into nature.
Whether you're looking for a place to relax or just enjoy the great outdoors, PAFB is the perfect place for military personnel who want to take advantage of nice weather all year.
Ready Access to Public Transit
The Lynx bus service offers routes connecting military personnel to other popular attractions in the area, making it easy to explore nearby towns and cities without relying on your own car.
You can also take advantage of the Amtrak train station near Titusville, which offers military personnel convenient access to other major cities across the country. And for military personnel who don't have a car, plenty of taxi and ridesharing services are available.
Affordable Housing Options
Military personnel looking for an affordable off-base home near Patrick Air Force Base will find plenty of housing options throughout the area. With military housing allowances and programs such as VA home loans, military personnel can find a home that fits their budget.
But that's not all. Thanks to Florida's lower property taxes and no state income tax, military personnel can save even more when buying a home off-base.
Proximity to Orlando and Tampa
Living off base near Patrick Air Force Base means you have easy access to two of the largest cities in Florida - Orlando and Tampa. Located within a few hours' drive of PAFB, military personnel can take advantage of all the attractions and activities these significant cities offer.
Whether you're looking for a fun weekend getaway or want to explore some of Florida's biggest tourist attractions, military personnel stationed at PAFB will be spoiled for choice.
Abundant Outdoor Activities
With miles of lush forests, you and your family can enjoy a peaceful getaway whenever they need it. The area is home to numerous parks and trails, making it easy for you to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping year-round.
And for those looking for more excitement, you can take advantage of the nearby Atlantic Ocean, its beaches, and nearby golf courses.
Exceptional Shopping Options
The nearby Patrick Air Force Base Exchange offers you a variety of shopping options and deals. Shopping at the base exchange is also more convenient than ever, thanks to its online store, which allows you to browse and purchase items from home.
In addition, there are numerous malls, boutiques, and stores located just minutes away from Patrick Air Force Base, giving military personnel plenty of options when it comes to shopping.
Great Cuisine
Patrick Air Force Base and the surrounding area offer various restaurant options for those who love to explore different cuisines. From classic American fare to international delicacies, you can always find something to satisfy your taste buds.
And for those who want a more casual dining experience, there are plenty of pubs and bars near Patrick Air Force Base. Among the top restaurants to try are Patrick's Beachside Bar and Grill, Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar, and Pier One Pub.
School Systems Near Patrick Air Force Base
There are plenty of options for quality education for military families with children looking to move near Patrick Air Force Base. The school district in Brevard County offers a wide range of educational opportunities for students of all ages.
Several private schools located nearby Patrick Air Force Base offer an excellent, specialized education. Here's a closer look at the educational institutions in the area:
Daycare Facilities Near Patrick Air Force Base
If you have children below five years, Patrick Air Force Base offers numerous daycare facilities that provide quality education and care for your little ones. The Patrick AFB Child Development Center, provides full-time care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
The Patrick AFB Family Child Care program also allows military families to select certified home providers near the base. Other nearby daycare options in Brevard County include Little Rascals and Park Avenue CDC.
Elementary Schools Near Patrick Air Force Base
For elementary school-aged children, there are several public schools located near PAFB. These include Ocean Breeze Elementary School, Sea Park Elementary School, and Surfside Elementary School. These institutions offer a comprehensive education program that strongly emphasizes core subjects.
Private schools in the area include Patrick Air Force Base Christian Academy, which offers a faith-based education, and The Master's Academy, which offers a college preparatory program.
Middle Schools Near Patrick Air Force Base
Regarding middle schools, Patrick Air Force Base is served by DeLaura Middle School for public education and Patrick Air Force Base Christian Academy for private education. Both of these institutions offer core subjects, sports teams, and extracurricular activities such as chorus and theater.
Other middle schools near Patrick Air Force Base include Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School and Space Coast Jr./Sr. High School, both located within 10 miles of Patrick Air Force Base.
High Schools Near Patrick Air Force Base
For high school-aged students, Patrick Air Force Base residents can choose from either Melbourne Senior High School or Eau Gallie High School for public education.
Private educational options include Patrick Air Force Base Christian Academy and Brevard County Virtual School.
Colleges Near Patrick Air Force Base
Patrick Air Force Base is near universities such as the University of Central Florida, Rollins College, Florida Tech, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
For those looking to pursue higher education, Patrick Air Force Base is home to Eastern Florida State College and Brevard Community College.
Both institutions offer associate degrees in a variety of subjects as well as bachelor's degrees in specific fields such as nursing or engineering.
The Process of Buying a Home Near Patrick Air Force Base
If you're used to living on base and are now considering buying a new home near Patrick Air Force Base, it can be helpful to know what the process entails. Here are the eight significant steps you need to follow:
Step 1 - Make Sure You're Financially Prepared
A home is a significant purchase, so it is vital to make sure you are financially prepared for the long-term commitment. Before starting your search, review your credit score and debt levels, and look at your budget to ensure you can afford the monthly payments associated with buying a new home near Patrick Air Force Base.
This is also the perfect time to weigh your home loan options and decide whether you want to pursue a traditional mortgage or a VA loan. Be sure to get pre-approved before you start searching for Patrick Air Force Base homes.
Step 2 - Research Patrick Air Force Base Communities
Once you have determined that you are in an excellent position to buy a home, research the Patrick Air Force Base area and decide which communities best fit your needs. Each has its unique character and amenities, so be sure to explore each before deciding.
Some qualities to look for when researching Patrick Air Force Base communities include affordability, schools, crime rates, and access to military bases.
Step 3 - Determine Your Budget and Home Requirements
Once you have identified Patrick Air Force Base communities that meet your needs, determine a budget and how much you can afford to spend on a new home. Consider any extra costs associated with buying a house, such as closing costs, property taxes, and insurance.
At this point, creating a list of must-haves for your new home, such as proximity to Patrick Air Force Base or living in an established neighborhood, is also helpful.
Step 4 - Locate Patrick Air Force Base Real Estate Listings
Now that you know what Patrick Air Force Base communities you're interested in and how much you can spend, it's time to start looking for houses. You can explore Patrick Air Force Base real estate listings online or hire a real estate agent specializing in the area.
Working with a local agent is helpful because they understand the Patrick Air Force Base market and can provide personalized service tailored to your needs. If you decide to go this route, carefully research each potential agent before making your decision.
The right real estate agent can prove helpful in pointing out Patrick Air Force Base homes that meet your criteria and providing the needed assistance during the negotiating process.
Step 5 - Make an Offer on Patrick Air Force Base Homes
Once you find Patrick Air Force Base homes that fit your needs, make an offer and negotiate until both parties are satisfied with the terms. Be sure to consider all factors, such as closing costs, contingencies, and other details, before making an offer.
Your real estate agent is valuable in this process because they understand Patrick Air Force Base market conditions and can help you move closer to achieving your goals.
Step 6 - Secure Financing and Arrange Inspections
If your Patrick Air Force Base home purchase offer is accepted, it's time to secure financing and arrange any necessary inspections.
Patrick Air Force Base homes are subject to various rules and regulations, so you must familiarize yourself with local laws to ensure you have complied with all required standards.
Step 7 - Close on the Sale
Once financing is secured, and any inspections have been performed, you can close the Patrick Air Force Base home sale.
Your real estate agent or attorney can help guide you through this final stage, ensuring that all paperwork and details are taken care of before the house officially changes hands.
Top 5 Communities Around Patrick Air Force Base
The kind of neighborhood you choose near Patrick Air Force Base will significantly affect your overall happiness. Here are the top 5 communities near Patrick Air Force Base, Florida:
Patrick's Pointe
Patrick's Pointe is a family-friendly community featuring single-family homes with spacious yards. Residents enjoy access to hiking and biking trails, such as Patrick's Pointe Park, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops in the area.
You can also enjoy stunning lake views and easy access to Patrick Air Force Base.
Patrick's Harbor
Patrick's Harbor is a vibrant community that offers plenty of amenities, such as neighborhood parks and nearby golf courses.
Homes here range from charming single-family houses to luxury apartments and condominiums. Patrick's Harbor also has its marina with direct access to Patrick Air Force Base.
Indian Harbor Beach
Indian Harbor Beach is a family-friendly community featuring single-family homes with spacious yards. Residents have access to nearby beaches and parks, along with plenty of shopping and dining options.
A particular attraction of Patrick Air Force Base is the nearby Patrick's Pointe Park, where you and your family can enjoy picnics and outdoor activities.
Patrick's Garden
Patrick's Garden is an up-and-coming community featuring modern homes with plenty of outdoor space.
Homeowners can access many amenities, such as Patrick Air Force Base's marina and beautiful lakefront views. Patrick's Garden offers a great combination of convenience and natural beauty.
Satellite Beach
This upscale beachfront community offers a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to condos. This neighborhood features some of the best schools near Patrick Air Force Base, including Patrick Air Force Base Elementary and Patrick Air Force Base High School.
Satellite Beach is an excellent choice for families who want access to Patrick Air Force Base while still living in a peaceful, beach-side neighborhood.
What's Next?
Living Near Patrick Air Force Base provides an excellent opportunity for military personnel and their families to enjoy the perks of Patrick Air Force Base without having the restrictions of on-base housing. The surrounding communities offer plenty of amenities such as restaurants, shops, parks, and more.
Families can also benefit from living close to good schools and Patrick Air Force Base's marina. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly neighborhood or an upscale beachside community, Patrick Air Force Base and its surrounding towns have something for everyone.
(Jun 7, 2023)
