Moving to Los Angeles Air Force Base
Los Angeles AFB in El Segundo hosts Space Systems Command, which buys and develops the Space Force's satellites and related systems, working closely with the aerospace industry nearby. It is an office-style installation with no large residential community on site, so housing choices and cost of living are the main challenge for families.
| Branch | Space Force |
|---|---|
| Nearest city | El Segundo, CA |
| Airports | Los Angeles International (LAX), right next to El Segundo |
| Climate | Mild Mediterranean coastal climate with little rain and cool marine layer |
| Cost of living | Very high; rents and mortgages may run 15%-40% above the national average, and BAH may not cover the difference |
| On-base housing | Privatized housing at Fort MacArthur in San Pedro (Tierra Vista Communities), about 20 miles from the base and open to all ranks |
| Medical care | Fort MacArthur clinic in San Pedro (TRICARE and dental services); no full hospital on base |
| Family support center | Airman and Family Readiness Center |
Where families live
Fort MacArthur (San Pedro)
Military housing near the coast with school assignments at Leland Street and White Point elementary schools.
El Segundo
Walkable small city next to the base with a strong local school district, but pricey housing.
Manhattan Beach / Hermosa Beach
Beach communities popular with families who can afford the premium.
Torrance
Large suburb with a wide range of housing and shopping at somewhat lower prices than the beach cities.
Redondo Beach
Beach-adjacent suburb with townhomes and apartments.
Schools
There are no DoD schools. Children living at Fort MacArthur attend Los Angeles Unified schools such as Leland Street Elementary, White Point Elementary, Dana Middle School and San Pedro High School. Families living off base near El Segundo and the beach cities should confirm district boundaries by address.
- Los Angeles Unified School District — Serves Fort MacArthur and San Pedro.
- El Segundo Unified School District — Serves families living near the base.
- Torrance Unified School District — Serves a large share of nearby South Bay suburbs.
Los Angeles AFB School Liaison Office (310-653-8631).
Things to do near Los Angeles Air Force Base
- South Bay beachesoutdoorsManhattan, Hermosa and Redondo Beach with bike path and pier walks.
- Hollywood and Los Angeles attractionsfamilyStudios, museums and theaters within a short drive.
- Fort MacArthur MuseummuseumCoastal defense history in San Pedro.
- Point Vicente and Palos Verdes coastoutdoorsScenic cliffs and whale watching.
- Downtown El SegundofoodRestaurants and breweries near the base.
- Santa Monica and Veniceday-tripBoardwalks and shopping up the coast.
Realtors & local services
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Local programs & support
- Military OneSource: Los Angeles AFB installation guideOfficial overview of services and relocation help.
PCS tips for Los Angeles Air Force Base
- Housing is the big issue: compare Fort MacArthur homes with off-base rents and your BAH before arriving.
- Traffic on the 405 and 110 can double commute times; scout your route at rush hour.
- Childcare waitlists are common at the Child Development Center; apply early.
- California vehicles must pass strict emissions standards; check requirements for out-of-state cars.
- California property tax rules differ from many states, so factor them into a purchase.
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 California
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.