Moving to MCAS Beaufort & MCRD Parris Island
The Tri-Command area includes MCAS Beaufort, an F-35 air station, MCRD Parris Island, the East Coast recruit depot, and Naval Hospital Beaufort. Life centers on the Lowcountry: marshes, historic Beaufort, and warm weather.
| Branch | Marine Corps |
|---|---|
| Nearest city | Beaufort, SC |
| Airports | Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV); Charleston about 65 miles north |
| Climate | Hot humid summers, mild winters; summer highs above 90F |
| Cost of living | Higher than the rest of South Carolina but below big-city markets |
| On-base housing | Atlantic Marine Corps Communities at Tri-Command (privatized; Balfour Beatty Communities) |
| Medical care | Naval Hospital Beaufort / Naval Health Clinic Beaufort |
| Family support center | Marine & Family Services / Family Service Center |
Where families live
City of Beaufort
Historic, walkable downtown with older homes.
Port Royal
Small waterfront town close to base.
Lady's Island
Popular with families wanting space.
Burton
More affordable housing and shopping.
On-base housing
Atlantic Marine Corps Communities homes near the base.
Schools
Off-base students attend Beaufort County School District (or Jasper, Colleton, Hampton depending on location). On-base families use DoDEA schools such as Elliott Elementary and Bolden Elementary/Middle. A School Liaison is at the Family Service Center.
- Beaufort County School District — Main district for the area; enrollment line (843) 322-2300.
On the installation: Elliott Elementary (PreK-2), Bolden Elementary/Middle (3-8)
MCAS Beaufort School Liaison Program at the Family Service Center
Things to do near MCAS Beaufort & MCRD Parris Island
- Hunting Island State ParkoutdoorsBeach, lighthouse and trails.
- Henry C. Chambers Waterfront ParkfamilyBeaufort waterfront with swings and river views.
- Beaufort History MuseummuseumLocal history.
- Charlestonday-tripHistoric city about an hour away.
- Savannahday-tripHistoric city to the south.
- Hilton Headday-tripBeaches and golf.
- Old Bull TavernfoodLocal dining spot.
Realtors & local services
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Local programs & support
- Tri-Command Housing Office (Atlantic Marine Corps Communities)Leasing office at Bldg 1140 for on-base homes.
PCS tips for MCAS Beaufort & MCRD Parris Island
- Expect aircraft noise near the air station.
- October, April and May are the most comfortable moving months.
- Contact the Tri-Command housing office early for on-base homes.
- Plan for hurricane season preparations.
Benefits to use on this move
- Dislocation Allowance (DLA)Service members relocating a household on PCS orders
- Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE)Families who need a hotel or short-term rental while moving within the U.S.
- Personally Procured Move (PPM / DITY)Families who want to move some or all of their own goods
- VA Home Loan GuarantyService members, veterans and some surviving spouses buying a home
- Pet Transportation ReimbursementFamilies moving a cat or dog on PCS orders
- Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military ChildrenSchool-age children of active duty families changing schools
- School Liaison ProgramParents choosing schools and transferring records
Other installations in the Southeast
Last researched 2026-10. Housing partners, school assignments and phone numbers change; confirm with the installation before you sign anything. Spot an error? Send a correction.