Keesler AFB
Keesler Air Force Base Relocation Information
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Welcome to Keesler AFB!
Keesler AFB, located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, is home to the 81st Training Wing and houses the 2nd Air Force (NAF- Numbered Air Force) and the 403rd Wing (Air Reserve). It serves as a leading Joint Training Installation, collaborating with the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and civilians. The base trains more than 28,000 students annually, making it the largest employer in the region.
Keesler AFB has a rich history dating back to 1941, when it served as an Army Air Corps training base during World War II. Initially known as Keesler Field, it was named in honor of 2nd Lieutenant Samuel Reeves Keesler Jr., a Mississippi native and World War I aviator. Throughout its history, Keesler has served as a training hub for a variety of Air Force specialties, including communications, electronics, and meteorology. Today, it remains a vital installation, hosting technical training for a wide range of military career fields.
Keesler AFB is home to:
- 81st Training Group
- 81st Medical Group
- 81st Mission Support Group
- Second Air Force
- 403rd Wing
- 85th Engineering Installation Squadron
Frequently Asked Questions About Keesler AFB
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1) What is Keesler AFB known for?
Keesler Air Force Base is known as a premier training center for the United States Air Force, specializing in technical education, including communications, electronics, and cyber operations.
2) What is the largest Air Force base in Mississippi?
Keesler AFB is the largest Air Force base in Mississippi, employing over 7,000 active duty, contractors, and civil service. That number does not include the nearly 4,000 family members, 104,000 retirees in the area, or the 28,000 students that pass through to complete training.
3) What is the zip code for Keesler AFB?
The zip code for Keesler AFB is 39534. Nearby zip codes include 39531 and 39530.
4) What is the BAH for Keesler AFB?
BAH for Keesler AFB ranges from $1,362 for E-1 to $1,995 for E-9 with dependents and from $1,422 for O-1 to $2,466 for O-7 with dependents. See housing section for more info.
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Base Location and Information
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Located in Biloxi, Mississippi, Keesler AFB offers a blend of coastal charm, rich history, and Southern hospitality. Biloxi is on the Gulf of Mexico and boasts stunning beaches that serve as a focal point for leisure and relaxation.
The city's culture is deeply rooted in its history. Explore attractions like the Biloxi Lighthouse, which serves as a symbol of resilience after enduring numerous hurricanes over the centuries. The Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art showcases the unique pottery of George E. Ohr, known as the "Mad Potter of Biloxi," while the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum provides insight into the city's maritime heritage. Biloxi's culinary scene reflects its coastal location, with an abundance of fresh seafood. From casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants, residents can indulge in mouth-watering bites.
Community events and festivals play a significant role in Biloxi's social life, bringing residents together to celebrate local traditions and culture. Events like the Biloxi Mardi Gras parade and the Biloxi Seafood Festival showcase the city's vibrant spirit and offer opportunities for residents to connect with their neighbors.
When you’re ready to unplug from the daily routine, military families stationed at Keesler AFB have options. Mobile is just under an hour to the east from Biloxi, while New Orleans is an hour and a half to the west. Both are exciting, adventure-filled weekend destinations.
Nearby military installations:
Arrival Lodging
The Air Force Inns at Keesler is located on base and offers accommodations for incoming servicemembers and their families. The facilities house 603 rooms spread throughout 14 buildings, each with the same convenience to base amenities.
Keesler AFB Lodging Location:
405 Fisher Street Bldg. 470
Keesler AFB, Mississippi, 39534
Phone: 228-374-0088
Keesler AFB Housing
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On-base housing at Keesler AFB is privatized and managed by Hunt Military Communities. Four neighborhoods offer three- and four-bedroom layouts with access to community amenities like playgrounds, jogging trails, fitness centers, and more. Sandhill Landing is one of the four neighborhoods and is located about 25 minutes from Keesler AFB near the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge.
Keesler AFB Housing Contact Information:
Keesler Family Housing
300 Patrick Drive
Biloxi, MS 39531
Phone: (866) 210-0127
For additional questions and information, contact the Housing Service Center at (228) 376-8615.
Keesler AFB Off-Base Housing
View homes for sale and houses for rent near Keesler AFB: Keesler AFB Homes
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Service members and their families who choose to live off base near Keesler AFB often look for homes in Biloxi, D’iberville, Ocean Springs, and Gulfport.
Keesler AFB BAH Information
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a U.S.-based allowance determined by geographic duty location, pay grade, and dependency status. It provides uniformed service members compensation based on housing costs in local civilian housing markets when government quarters are not provided. Learn more about your Basic Allowance for Housing.
Keesler AFB is near Biloxi and Ocean Springs with many options to buy or rent. Some sample Keesler AFB BAH rates for zip code 39534:
- E-1 with dependents: $1,362
- E-1 without dependents: $1,200
- E-9 with dependents: $1,995
- E-9 without dependents: $1,497
- O-1 with dependents: $1,422
- O-1 without dependents: $1,311
- O-7 with dependents: $2,466
- O-7 without dependents: $1,920
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Area Weather & Climate
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Biloxi has a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures average in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, while winters are typically mild, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s. However, residents should be aware of hurricane season, which spans from June to November, as Biloxi is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes.
To learn more about hurricane preparedness, visit MDOT.
Keesler AFB Area Schools
School-age children who live on Keesler AFB or in Biloxi fall under the Biloxi Public School District.
Biloxi Public Schools contact information:
160 St. Peter Street
Biloxi, MS 39530
Phone: (228) 374-1810
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Families living in Ocean Springs fall under the Ocean Springs Public School District.
Ocean Springs Public Schools contact information:
2300 Government Street
Ocean Springs, MS 39564
Phone: (228) 875-7706
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Families who live in Vancleave fall within the Jackson County School District.
Jackson County Schools contact information:
4700 Col Vickrey Rd Vancleave
MS 39565
Phone: (228) 283-3000
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Private School Review is a great tool to find information about Keesler area private schools. Families interested in homeschooling should follow the Mississippi Department of Education homeschool regulations. For any questions or concerns, contact the Keesler AFB School Liaison Office.
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Support for Military and Families
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The cost of living in Biloxi is lower compared to national averages. The median home price, utilities, transportation, and healthcare costs also trend under the national average, making homeownership more accessible. As for employment, some of the largest employers in Biloxi include the gaming and hospitality industries.
Some helpful links:
Things to Do
Biloxi Beach: Enjoy a relaxing day on the beautiful sandy shores of Biloxi Beach, just a short drive from Gulfport and Keesler AFB.
Beauvoir: Explore historic Beauvoir, the former home of Jefferson Davis and now a museum and library offering insights into Civil War history.
Gulf Islands Waterpark: Have a fun-filled day with the family, enjoying thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and splash pads.
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center: An interactive children's museum offering educational exhibits and outdoor play areas.
Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum: Learn about the rich maritime history and seafood industry of the Gulf Coast region at this fascinating museum in Biloxi.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art: This renowned museum in Ocean Springs features the vibrant artwork of Walter Anderson and other regional artists.
Ship Island Excursions: Take a ferry ride to Ship Island for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring historic Fort Massachusetts.
Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum: Delve into the world of model trains at this museum in Gulfport, featuring intricate displays and interactive exhibits.
Biloxi Lighthouse: Climb to the top of the iconic Biloxi Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Gulf Coast and learn about its maritime history.
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Base Address:
500 Fisher Street, Building 0701
Keesler AFB
,
39534-2554