Edwards Air Force Base
Updated: September 27, 2023
Written by Veteran.com Team
Edwards Air Force Base (AFB) in California is the core location for the Air Force Test Center, Air Force Test Pilot School, and NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center. It primarily conducts aerospace system research, development, and testing. Notably, the base has aided the advancement of aircraft like the Bell X-1, North American X-15, and the Space Shuttle and supported commercial aerospace industry testing.
Base Operator:
661-277-1110
Address:
90 Farrell Drive
Building 5620
Edwards AFB, CA 93524
Edwards AFB History
Established in the 1930s as Muroc Field, it underwent several renamings before settling on Edwards AFB in 1950. The base is notable in aviation history, highlighted by events like Chuck Yeager breaking the sound barrier and the Space Shuttle’s first landings.
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Edwards AFB Housing
At the military base, housing options are diverse and cater to a variety of needs. On-base housing is managed by a private partnership, providing a secure and convenient living environment for a large number of residents.
Off-base housing is available in the surrounding areas of Lancaster, Palmdale, and Acton.
How to Apply For Housing
Corvias Military Living manages and operates housing on-base housing. There are home rentals spanning from two to four bedrooms. To apply to on-post housing, you can call 661-385-6060 or apply through their online portal.
PCS and TDY Lodging
Those traveling on PCS or TDY orders have priority at the on-base High Desert Inn. Make reservations as soon as you have travel orders for best results–call the High Desert Inn at 661-275-7666.
There are some pet-friendly facilities on base, but know that demand for such facilities is high and you should book early. Due to PCS and TDY seasons, demand in general for rooms at the Inn is high–you may be issued a statement of non-availability for off-base temporary lodging, but you will not be reimbursed on your travel voucher for expenses off-base if you do not obtain the certificate prior to your expenses.
Airmen PCSing to Edwards AFB are granted up to 30 days of lodging authorized.
What is the BAH for Edwards AFB?
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) at Edwards Air Force Base varies depending on rank, years of service and dependency status. Visit the California state BAH page or see the chart below for more information.
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EDWARDS AFB/PALMDALE, CA BAH Rates
Military Housing Area: CA457
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,313 | $1,734 |
| E02 | $2,313 | $1,734 |
| E03 | $2,313 | $1,734 |
| E04 | $2,313 | $1,734 |
| E05 | $2,475 | $1,995 |
| E06 | $2,829 | $2,163 |
| E07 | $2,913 | $2,319 |
| E08 | $3,006 | $2,553 |
| E09 | $3,141 | $2,652 |
| W01 | $2,850 | $2,268 |
| W02 | $2,955 | $2,550 |
| W03 | $3,066 | $2,664 |
| W04 | $3,171 | $2,847 |
| W05 | $3,300 | $2,934 |
| O01E | $2,928 | $2,472 |
| O02E | $3,048 | $2,628 |
| O03E | $3,189 | $2,823 |
| O01 | $2,526 | $2,148 |
| O02 | $2,826 | $2,424 |
| O03 | $3,063 | $2,700 |
| O04 | $3,342 | $2,913 |
| O05 | $3,540 | $2,964 |
| O06 | $3,570 | $3,042 |
| O07 | $3,597 | $3,096 |
For more information, look at BAH rates by state or calculate your exact BAH rate.
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Edwards AFB Surrounding Area
Edwards Air Force Base is located in California, approximately 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles. The base is situated in the Mojave Desert and covers an area of 470 square miles. Nearby towns include Lancaster, Palmdale, and Rosamond. The surrounding area offers a variety of outdoor and recreational attractions, including hiking and camping in the nearby Angeles National Forest, boating and fishing in the nearby Lake Palmdale, and off-roading in the nearby Jawbone Canyon. Historical and cultural sites in the area include the Antelope Valley Indian Museum, the Lancaster Museum of Art and History, and the Blackbird Airpark, which showcases the history of the SR-71 Blackbird spy plane.
Healthcare
On-base medical services can be found at the 412 Medical Group at Edwards AFB, offering a range of clinics and specialty care.
Note: off-base emergency services are the only option for those living on Edwards AFB.
Childcare
The Edwards AFB Child Development Centers (CDCs) offer several different options for childcare.
The Edwards AFB CDC welcomes children aged six weeks to age 5. Notably, the Edwards CDC holds accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This NAEYC Accreditation greatly supports CDC Staff in cultivating a shared dedication to quality.
Schooling
There are no DoDDS schools located at Edwards Air Force Base. Children living on base attend schools in the nearby Muroc Unified School District. Off-base residents can send their children to any of the surrounding districts.
Contact the Edwards AFB School Liason at 661-277-2713.
