Military Relocation to Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs has long been one of the most popular duty stations in the country. With five major military installations, high-performing schools, and easy access to Front Range recreation, the region supports service members and their families through every season of life. If you’re relocating for a PCS, this guide will help you understand local housing options, how to use your VA benefits effectively, and what to consider as you choose a community.

Understanding the PCS Process in Colorado Springs

A Permanent Change of Station moves quickly. Between orders, TMO scheduling, temporary lodging, and school enrollment, the timeline can feel compressed. Planning early reduces stress and gives you more choice in neighborhoods, floorplans, and move-in timing.

Most inbound service members are assigned to one of the following installations: Fort Carson on the south side of the city; Peterson Space Force Base east of downtown; Schriever Space Force Base southeast near the airport; the U.S. Air Force Academy on the north end near Monument; and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station in the southwest foothills. Knowing where you’ll report helps you focus on communities with the commute and amenities you want.

If your report date is firm, consider whether a move-in ready new home or a resale property best fits your schedule. If your window is flexible, a to-be-built new home may give you the exact layout and homesite you want.

Where to Live: Communities by Base and Lifestyle

Colorado Springs offers a wide range of neighborhoods, from master-planned communities with parks and trails to quieter areas with mountain views. The best fit depends on your commute, school preferences, and the kind of daily routine you want.

Near Peterson and Schriever Space Force Bases

East-side communities offer quick access via Powers Boulevard, Marksheffel Road, and Highway 24. Challenger Homes builds in several nearby neighborhoods — including Falcon Meadows at Bent Grass, Copper Chase at Sterling Ranch, and Ascent at Woodmen Heights — all offering modern floorplans, nearby parks and trails, and convenient proximity to shopping and schools. Many families choose this area for its balance of open space and accessibility to both Peterson and Schriever Space Force Bases.

Near Fort Carson

South-side options such as Bradley Heights and nearby Southeast Colorado Springs neighborhoods give you a straightforward commute to the gates while keeping you close to schools, recreation centers, and daily essentials. Buyers who value newer construction and predictable maintenance often prioritize these areas for PCS timing.

Near the U.S. Air Force Academy

If you prefer the north side or Monument for school options and quick interstate access, look at Home Place Ranch in Monument and Westcreek at Wolf Ranch in northern Colorado Springs. Families often choose these locations for proximity to highly regarded districts and a wide range of youth activities.

Why Many Military Buyers Choose New Construction

Resale homes can be a great fit, especially if you need immediate occupancy in a specific area. New construction, however, often aligns well with military life due to predictability, lower maintenance, and flexible possession options.

• Energy efficiency and comfort. New homes are built to current codes with tighter building envelopes, modern windows, and efficient HVAC systems. The result is a more comfortable home and potential utility savings over time.
• Warranty coverage. Structural and systems warranties reduce surprise expenses in the first years of ownership. Predictable maintenance helps with budgeting when duty schedules are busy.
• Modern layouts and storage. Open kitchens, flexible lofts, main-level suites, and practical storage support family routines, visiting relatives, and occasional TDY transitions.
• Move-in ready availability. Many builders offer completed homes that can close quickly. If your PCS window is short, a move-in ready option can deliver new-home benefits on a compressed timeline.

Move-In Ready vs. To-Be-Built

Move-in ready homes suit tight PCS schedules. You’ll know the exact price, finishes, and closing date sooner, which simplifies rate locks and household planning. To-be-built homes give you more control over homesite and design selections. If your report date allows, this path lets you align the home with your long-term needs and may provide the best overall value.

VA Loan Essentials for Colorado Springs Buyers

The VA Home Loan is one of the most powerful tools available to eligible service members and veterans. It is designed to make homeownership accessible while keeping monthly costs manageable.

• Zero down payment for most buyers. You can often purchase without a large upfront investment.
• No private mortgage insurance. Eliminating PMI helps keep your monthly payment efficient.
• Competitive interest rates. VA-backed loans typically offer favorable terms relative to many conventional options.
• Streamlined refinancing. The Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) can simplify rate reductions later.
• Assumability. A qualified future buyer may be able to assume your VA loan, which can enhance resale appeal if you are reassigned.

To use a VA loan on a new construction home, work with a VA-experienced lender and a VA-approved builder. You will need a Certificate of Eligibility, and the property must meet VA appraisal standards. If you are building from the ground up, coordinate timelines with your lender since rate lock periods are finite and may require extensions. Appraisal and inspection milestones should be planned early so your closing stays on track.

Renting vs. Buying: Decision Factors for Service Members

The right answer depends on your service length, housing inventory near your base, and longer-term plans.

• Service length and flexibility. If you expect to remain in the region or return later, buying can be compelling. If your timeline is short and uncertain, renting may reduce risk.
• Maintenance bandwidth. New construction reduces early maintenance so you can focus on your mission. If you choose a resale, review inspection findings carefully and set a realistic repair budget.
• Resale and rental market. Areas near bases with strong schools and amenities tend to attract both buyers and long-term renters. If future rental income is part of your plan, prioritize communities with convenient commutes and daily services.
• Equity and stability. Building equity can provide financial flexibility in future moves. If you plan to rent after reassignment, discuss property management options while you are still local.

Schooling, Services, and Everyday Life

Families often rank school access alongside commute time when choosing a neighborhood. Colorado Springs includes multiple well-regarded districts with strong academics, extracurricular options, and community support. Enrollment timelines and documentation requirements can vary, so check district websites early and keep records handy for registration. Many master-planned communities sit within a short drive of libraries, youth sports facilities, and medical providers, which simplifies busy schedules.

Everyday convenience matters as much as commute length. Map your day: base gate, childcare or school, grocery runs, and after-school activities. Neighborhoods that reduce time in the car can make a noticeable difference in quality of life during a PCS transition.

PCS Checklist: From Orders to Keys

A simple plan keeps the move organized and reduces last-minute surprises.

• As soon as you receive orders. Speak with a local VA-experienced lender, outline your budget using a range around your BAH, and review your timeline. Identify two or three communities that match your commute and school preferences.
• About 45 to 30 days before arrival. Tour model homes in person if possible, or schedule virtual tours. Compare commute routes at different times of day. Gather loan documents and confirm preapproval details.
• About 30 to 15 days before move-in. If purchasing a move-in ready new home, check in with your lender, schedule an appraisal and closing milestones. If building, align construction progress with your lender’s timeline and discuss rate-lock strategy. Arrange temporary lodging if needed.
• Arrival week. Complete your final walk-through, set up utilities, and submit school registration documents. Take a drive through the neighborhood to locate parks, trails, medical clinics, and grocery options so your first week feels organized.

Making Life Better for Military Families

At Challenger Homes, Making Life Better means building communities that honor service and make daily life simpler. Thoughtful neighborhood design, energy-efficient construction, and practical floorplans help families settle quickly and live comfortably from day one. Whether you need a move-in ready home aligned to a tight PCS date or you want to personalize a to-be-built plan near your base, our team is ready to guide you through every step. When you are prepared to explore, schedule a model home tour or browse move-in ready homes to find the right fit for your next chapter in Colorado Springs.