Fort Bliss
Updated: September 22, 2023
Written by Veteran.com Team
Fort Bliss, primarily in El Paso, Texas, but extending into New Mexico, is the largest U.S. Army Forces Command installation. The 1st Armored Division calls it home. Its primary roles include soldier training and support and rapid deployment platforming. The base boasts vast training areas, including extensive airspace for missile and artillery exercises.
Base Operator:
(915) 744-2010
Address:
1408 Cassidy Road
Fort Bliss, TX 79906
What Kind of Base is Fort Bliss?
Covering roughly 1,700 square miles, Fort Bliss provides the U.S.’s largest contiguous restricted airspace. Aside from the 1st Armored Division, it is a significant deployment training hub and houses the Joint Task Force North and the El Paso Intelligence Center. With roots dating back to 1849, it has a storied history, including pivotal training roles during the Cold War.
Fort Bliss History
Fort Bliss was named after LTC William Bliss in 1849 and has historical significance, including participation in the Punitive Expedition into Mexico and training anti-aircraft artillery battalions during WWII. Today, it remains a critical strategic deployment site, ensuring the readiness of its units.
Fort Bliss Housing
On-post housing on Fort Bliss encompasses rental options and housing. Balfour Beatty Communities manages the housing. There are roughly 4,300 housing units available. There are seventeen neighborhoods with military housing options. Soldiers E5 and below are mandatorily assigned to barracks.
Off-base housing is also an option, with many choosing to reside in the surrounding areas of El Paso County.
To apply for housing, contact the 915-568-4005.
PCS and TDY Lodging
The IHG Army Hotel offers two locations for temporary lodging options. They are:
- Candlewood Suite on Duncan Street
- Holiday Inn on Victory Avenue
Call 915-565-7777 for additional reservation information you need.
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What is the BAH for Fort Bliss?
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) at Fort Bliss varies depending on rank, years of service and dependency status. Visit the Texas state BAH page or see the chart below for more information.
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EL PASO, TX BAH Rates
Military Housing Area: TX279
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $1,491 | $1,176 |
| E02 | $1,491 | $1,176 |
| E03 | $1,491 | $1,176 |
| E04 | $1,491 | $1,176 |
| E05 | $1,620 | $1,287 |
| E06 | $1,974 | $1,482 |
| E07 | $1,998 | $1,500 |
| E08 | $2,025 | $1,698 |
| E09 | $2,076 | $1,797 |
| W01 | $1,995 | $1,497 |
| W02 | $2,013 | $1,695 |
| W03 | $2,046 | $1,809 |
| W04 | $2,088 | $1,977 |
| W05 | $2,151 | $2,004 |
| O01E | $2,001 | $1,617 |
| O02E | $2,037 | $1,773 |
| O03E | $2,097 | $1,968 |
| O01 | $1,671 | $1,356 |
| O02 | $1,971 | $1,578 |
| O03 | $2,043 | $1,845 |
| O04 | $2,166 | $1,989 |
| O05 | $2,253 | $2,007 |
| O06 | $2,268 | $2,022 |
| O07 | $2,283 | $2,052 |
For more information, look at BAH rates by state or calculate your exact BAH rate.
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Fort Bliss Surrounding Area
Areas surrounding Fort Bliss, offer a mix of urban amenities and a charming Western town atmosphere. Outdoor and recreational attractions in the area include the rugged Franklin Mountains and the historic Rio Grande. There are also historical and cultural sites to explore, such as the Buffalo Soldier Gate and the Fort Bliss and Ironsides Museums. It also offers the option to travel across the U.S.-Mexico Border to visit parts of Mexico.
Healthcare
William Beaumont Army Medical Center calls Fort Bliss home. It caters to everyone, from warfighters to their families and our retirees.
Beyond the Medical Center, care extends to the Soldier Family Medical Clinic, Mendoza Family Medical Clinic, Rio Bravo Medical Center, and several dental facilities.
Furthermore, William Beaumont’s mission encompasses the operation of the Army’s inaugural Residential Treatment Facility, addressing substance and alcohol misuse alongside a regional trauma unit. The center also engages in clinical medical research, preventive medicine, and mental health services.
Childcare
Fort Bliss offers five on-post Child Development Centers (CDCs). These CDCs offer care ranging from full day to 24/7 care. Services cover infants, toddler and pre-school aged children. Several of the centers also offer school year care for students.
Schooling
Fort Bliss houses four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, all managed by the El Paso Independent School District. If you live off-post, note that El Paso has ten additional school districts: Socorro, Gadsden (NM), Ysleta, Canutillo, San Elizario, Clint, Anthony, Fabens, and Tornillo. The El Paso Independent School District, with the highest military student enrollment, is the most prominent. For any inquiries, reach out to the School Liaison office at 915-569-5064.
