Barksdale Air Force Base: PCS Guide for Military Families

Barksdale AFB Quick Facts

Category	Details
Location	Bossier City, Louisiana (ZIP 71110)
Established	February 2, 1933
Size	22,000 acres
Primary Mission	Nuclear deterrence and global strike operations
Major Units	2nd Bomb Wing, Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), 307th Bomb Wing (AFRC)
Aircraft	B-52H Stratofortress
Population	~15,000 military and civilian personnel
Nearest Airport	Shreveport Regional Airport (~15 minutes)
Base Operator	(318) 456-1110 / DSN 312-781-1110
Official Website	barksdale.af.mil

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Base Mission and Major Units

Barksdale is the headquarters of Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) — the organization responsible for the nation’s entire strategic bomber and ICBM force. Consequently, the mission tempo here is high. The 2nd Bomb Wing, the oldest and largest bomb wing in the Air Force, executes both nuclear and conventional missions worldwide. Each year, the 2 BW logs approximately 1,100 sorties and 6,000 flying hours. Furthermore, the 307th Bomb Wing, an Air Force Reserve Command unit, flies alongside the active-duty wing to maintain additional B-52H capability.

Key Units at Barksdale AFB

Unit	Role
2nd Bomb Wing (2 BW)	Host unit; nuclear and conventional B-52H operations
Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC)	HQ for all Air Force strategic bombers and ICBMs
8th Air Force (“Mighty Eighth”)	Warfighting headquarters; global air power command
307th Bomb Wing (AFRC)	Reserve B-52H aircrew and support personnel
B-52H Formal Training Unit (FTU)	Initial and advanced aircrew qualification; 4–6 months
Det. 2, 57th Wing	B-52 Weapons School
49th Test Squadron	Bomber operational testing

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2026 BAH Rates — Shreveport/Barksdale AFB, LA

The following rates reflect 2026 BAH for the Shreveport/Barksdale AFB military housing area. Use these figures to plan your housing budget before you arrive. Additionally, you can verify your exact rate at the official DoD BAH calculator.

With Dependents

Pay Grade	Monthly BAH
E-1 through E-4	$1,545
E-5	$1,674
E-6	$1,920
E-7	$1,977
E-8	$2,037
E-9	$2,163
O-1 / O-1E	$1,710 / $1,983
O-2 / O-2E	$1,917 / $2,070
O-3 / O-3E	$2,079 / $2,217
O-4	$2,391
O-5	$2,610
O-6	$2,631

Without Dependents

Pay Grade	Monthly BAH
E-1 through E-4	$1,161
E-5	$1,320
E-6	$1,437
E-7	$1,545
E-8	$1,728
E-9	$1,791
O-1	$1,410
O-2	$1,635
O-3	$1,827
O-4	$1,974
O-5	$2,004
O-6	$2,061

For a deeper look at how BAH works and how to maximize your housing allowance, visit our 2026 BAH rates guide. Furthermore, if you are comparing your total compensation package, our 2026 military pay charts break down base pay by grade and years of service.

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Housing at Barksdale AFB

Housing is typically the first big decision you will make after receiving orders. Fortunately, the Shreveport-Bossier City area offers genuine options at every price point. The median home price in Bossier City is approximately $202,700 — well below the national median. Similarly, rental rates are affordable compared to most Air Force installations in larger metro areas.

On-Base Housing

On-base housing at Barksdale is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities. Three distinct neighborhoods serve different rank bands. However, wait times typically run one to three months, so apply as early as possible — even before you have firm report dates. Contact the Housing Office at housing.af.mil to get on the list.

Neighborhood	Home Type	Best For
Heritage Heights	Duplex and single-family homes	Junior enlisted (E1–E4)
Liberty Heights	Spacious single-family homes with garages	Senior enlisted and junior officers
Freedom Estates	4-bedroom homes with two-car garages	Officers and senior NCOs

Families on the main base are zoned to Waller Elementary, Rusheon Middle School, and Bossier High School. In contrast, families on the East Reservation are zoned to Haughton Elementary, Haughton Middle, and Haughton High School. All active-duty families on base may also participate in the Bossier Parish School of Choice program — more on that in the Schools section below.

Off-Base Neighborhoods

Most Barksdale families live off base in the Bossier City and greater Shreveport area. Notably, the cost of living here is roughly 15% below the national average, so your BAH typically covers comfortable housing with money to spare at the E-5 level and above.

Area	Commute to Gate	Avg. 3BR Rent	Notes
South Bossier City	10–15 min	$1,300–$1,800/mo	Top pick; short commute, good schools, suburban feel
Haughton	15–25 min	$1,200–$1,700/mo	Quieter small-town vibe; newer homes; strong schools
North Bossier City	15–20 min	$1,200–$1,750/mo	Growing area; modern apartments and newer neighborhoods
Shreveport – Broadmoor	20–30 min	$1,100–$1,600/mo	Established area; longer commute but affordable

If you are considering buying at Barksdale, Louisiana offers strong veteran protections and no penalty for breaking a lease after PCS orders arrive. Our VA Home Loan guide explains exactly how to use your benefit in Louisiana, including how to structure your offer in a competitive market. Additionally, our Find Your Base directory links to resources for every installation your career may take you to next.

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Schools Near Barksdale AFB

School quality is a top priority for military families. Fortunately, Barksdale families have solid options in both Bossier Parish and Caddo Parish, depending on where they live. The School Liaison Office on base is a critical resource — contact them before you finalize your neighborhood decision.

Bossier Parish Schools

Bossier Parish Schools is an A-rated district and one of the fastest-growing in Louisiana. The district serves more than 23,500 students across 34 schools. Moreover, the student-to-teacher ratio is 16:1, which is manageable for classroom attention. Families living in Bossier City — including all on-base housing — fall under this district.

Notably, active-duty families living on base can send their children to any Bossier Parish school through the School of Choice program, regardless of zone. However, parents are responsible for providing their own transportation to and from the chosen school.

School	Level	Notes
Waller Elementary	Pre-K–5	~2 miles from main gate; 50+ Chromebooks per computer lab
Sun City Elementary	K–3	~3 miles south of Barksdale
Rusheon Middle School	6–8	Zoned for main base families; many military dependents enrolled
Elm Grove Middle School	6–8	Less than 3 miles from front gate; feeds into Parkway High
Bossier High School	9–12	Zoned for main base families
Haughton High School	9–12	Rated above state average; zoned for East Reservation families

Caddo Parish Schools

Families who choose to live in Shreveport attend Caddo Parish Schools. Overall, Caddo Parish serves approximately 45,000 students across 12 National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence. In addition, the district offers 5 Purple Star Schools and a Magnet Program with STEM, arts, and college-prep pathways. The student-to-teacher ratio is 15:1.

Private School Options

Several private schools serve Barksdale families. Specifically, Providence Classical Academy — located at 4525 Old Brownlee Road, Bossier City (318) 820-9465 — serves nearly 500 students from pre-K through 12th grade with small class sizes and a Christian classical curriculum.

School Liaison Contact

Contact	Details
Phone	(318) 456-4098 | Cell: (318) 564-9099
Email	BarksdaleSchoolLiaison@us.af.mil
Location	Bldg. 4400, 2nd Floor, Ste 2101
Hours	Mon–Fri, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Website	barksdalelife.com/school-liaison

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Arriving at Barksdale AFB: In-Processing and Gate Access

Gate Hours

Gate	Hours	Notes
West Gate (Shreveport Gate)	Open 24/7	Main entry; accessible from I-20 westbound
North Gate (Bossier Gate)	Mon–Fri 6 a.m.–5:45 p.m.; Sat 6 a.m.–12 p.m.; closed Sunday/holidays	Accessible from I-20 eastbound via Airline Drive

All visitors must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or other DoD-approved credential at entry. Additionally, state IDs must comply with the REAL ID Act — non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for unescorted access. Drones are strictly prohibited above or near Barksdale AFB airspace under 14 CFR § 99.7.

Welcome Center and In-Processing

Report to the Welcome Center in Building 455, near the main entrance, upon arrival. The center is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Plan for two to three days to complete all in-processing stops, which include Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your gaining unit. Request a sponsor through your gaining unit as soon as you receive orders — sponsors help enormously with the first-week checklist.

Visitor Control Center

The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is just outside the West Gate. It operates Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsor paperwork.

Documents to Hand-Carry

• PCS Orders (multiple copies)
• Military ID/CAC
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Birth certificates for dependents
• Social Security cards
• Vehicle registration and proof of insurance
• Medical and dental records

For a complete moving document checklist and a step-by-step timeline, see our PCS Binder and Checklist. Furthermore, if you are debating a DITY/PPM move versus government movers, our DITY move guide breaks down the pros, cons, and reimbursement math.

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Medical Care at Barksdale AFB

The 2nd Medical Group provides primary care for active-duty members and their families on base. For specialized care, TRICARE covers referrals to civilian providers in the Shreveport-Bossier area. Contact the medical group through the official TRICARE site for Barksdale to establish care and schedule appointments promptly after arrival.

Facility	Contact
2nd Medical Group (Primary Care)	barksdale.tricare.mil
Immunization Clinic	On base; required for Louisiana school enrollment
TRICARE Beneficiary Counseling	(800) 444-5445

Important note: Louisiana requires all students to have a current Louisiana Shot Record before school enrollment. Take your children’s existing immunization records to the on-base Immunization Clinic to obtain the correct Louisiana documentation before the school year begins.

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Child Care at Barksdale AFB

The Child Development Center (CDC) accommodates 190 children, ages 6 weeks through 5 years. Programs include extended day care, preschool, and hourly care. However, a waitlist exists for all age groups. Submit a DD Form 2606 along with a copy of your PCS orders to secure a spot as early as possible — your effective date on the waitlist is based on the postmark of your application.

CDC hours are Monday through Friday, 6:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is currently no annual registration fee, and fees are income-based. For more information, visit barksdalelife.com/child-and-youth.

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On-Base Amenities and MWR

Barksdale’s Force Support Squadron operates a full range of on-base services. Overall, the quality of amenities here is strong for a mid-size installation. Visit barksdalelife.com for current hours, events, and membership information.

Facility	Contact / Website
Commissary	commissaries.com
Base Exchange (BX)	shopmyexchange.com
Barksdale Inn (Lodging)	(318) 456-3091 / DSN 781-3091
Youth Center (19,922 sq ft)	3 activity rooms, gym, game room, music room
Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC)	(318) 456-8400 | barksdalelife.com
Barksdale Global Power Museum	Historical aircraft and artifacts on base
Space-A Passenger Terminal	(318) 456-8814 / DSN 312-456-8814 | 2lrsato.distro@us.af.mil

The Airman and Family Readiness Center is particularly valuable for incoming families. Specifically, the A&FRC offers spouse employment support, financial counseling, deployment readiness, and relocation assistance programs. These services are available to active duty, reservists, guard members, and DoD civilians.

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Everyday Life in the Shreveport-Bossier Area

Life off base in northwest Louisiana has a character all its own. The Red River runs between Shreveport and Bossier City, giving the region a split personality — Bossier City is more suburban and family-focused, while Shreveport offers arts, dining, and a larger city experience. Together, the metro area has a population of about 235,000.

What Families Love About Barksdale

• Affordable cost of living. At 15% below the national average, housing and groceries leave real money in your budget each month.
• Southern culture. Cajun food, Mardi Gras parades, and warm hospitality make the region feel welcoming, even for families from far away.
• Road-trip proximity. Dallas is 185 miles west, Little Rock is 175 miles north, and New Orleans is 325 miles south — all reachable for a weekend.
• Mild winters. January highs average in the mid-50s. However, summer heat and humidity are real — plan accordingly.

Honest Talk: Things to Know Before You Arrive

• Summer heat is serious. July averages in the mid-90s with high humidity. Ensure your future home has a reliable HVAC system.
• Mission tempo is high. The 2nd Bomb Wing flies year-round missions. Consequently, TDYs and exercises are frequent — spouses should connect with the FRG and the PCS Pay It Forward® group early.
• On-base housing waitlists are real. Apply as soon as orders arrive. Otherwise, budget for 1–3 months of off-base housing during the wait.
• School research matters. Both parishes offer strong options, but school quality varies by campus. Use the School Liaison before finalizing your neighborhood.

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Getting to Barksdale AFB

Driving Directions

From the east (I-20 westbound): Take Exit 22, Airline Drive, and turn left. Then turn left onto Old Minden Road (LA-72). Stay right as it merges onto Northgate Drive — this leads directly to the North Gate.

From the west (I-20 eastbound): Take the US-71S/Barksdale Blvd exit (Exit 20C). Turn left at the sixth traffic light onto Barksdale Blvd (Hwy 71). The West Gate is approximately one-half mile ahead on the left. This gate is open 24 hours.

From the south (I-49 northbound): Exit onto Bert Kouns Industrial Loop and travel east. Cross the Red River into Bossier City on 70th Street. Turn left at Hwy 71 and continue through five traffic lights. Then turn right into the West Gate.

Flying In

Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) is approximately 15 minutes from base. Four airlines serve the airport: Allegiant, American, Delta, and United, with service to Las Vegas, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Atlanta, Denver, Houston, Orlando, and Destin. There is no military shuttle from the airport to Barksdale — arrange transportation through your sponsor, a rental car, or a rideshare service.

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Temporary Lodging at Barksdale AFB

TLE covers up to 10 days of lodging costs while your family waits for permanent housing. The on-base Barksdale Inn should be your first call — reserve well in advance, especially during the busy summer PCS season.

Option	Distance	Phone / Notes
Barksdale Inn (on base)	On base	(318) 456-3091; standard rooms, suites, TLFs with kitchenettes; pet-friendly rooms available
La Quinta Bossier City	~3 miles / 7 min	Budget-friendly; free breakfast; pets welcome (no fee, up to 2 pets)
Holiday Inn Express Bossier City	~4 miles / 10 min	Free breakfast; government/military rates; pet-friendly (fee applies)
Home2 Suites by Hilton Shreveport	~7 miles / 15 min	Kitchenettes; indoor pool; military rates with ID

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Moving Tips for Your Barksdale PCS

• Contact the Base Transportation Office at (318) 456-3097 as soon as orders arrive to schedule your household goods move.
• Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to manage your shipment and upload required documents.
• Photograph all high-value items before packing. Furthermore, keep important documents — orders, IDs, medical records — with you during transit, not in shipped boxes.
• Book on-base lodging early. Summer PCS season fills quickly.
• Review the military moving tips guide for strategies that save time and money on your move.
• Confirm pet policies at your lodging before arrival — on-base rooms are limited.

Wondering if a DITY/PPM move makes sense for your Barksdale PCS? Our DITY move guide walks through the weight allowance, reimbursement rates, and how to calculate whether you’ll come out ahead. Also, don’t forget to review PCS tax write-offs — you may be able to deduct more than you think.

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Frequently Asked Questions: PCS to Barksdale AFB

What is the 2026 BAH rate for Barksdale AFB?

The 2026 BAH rate for the Shreveport/Barksdale AFB area starts at $1,545 per month for E-1 through E-4 with dependents and $1,161 without dependents. An E-5 with dependents receives $1,674 per month. Officers at the O-5 level receive $2,610 with dependents. Verify your exact rate at the official DoD BAH calculator.

What neighborhoods near Barksdale AFB are best for military families?

South Bossier City is the most popular choice — it offers a 10–15 minute commute, reputable schools, and rents of $1,300–$1,800 per month for a 3-bedroom home. Haughton is another strong option for families who want newer homes, low crime, and top-rated schools at a slightly longer commute. Many families avoid Shreveport’s higher-crime areas, so research specific neighborhoods before signing a lease.

How long is the on-base housing waitlist at Barksdale?

Expect a waitlist of approximately one to three months, depending on your rank and family size. Apply through Balfour Beatty Communities as soon as you have orders — even before your report date is confirmed. Budget for off-base temporary lodging or a short-term rental while you wait.

What school district serves Barksdale AFB?

Families living on base or in Bossier City attend Bossier Parish Schools, an A-rated district with 23,500+ students across 34 schools. Those living in Shreveport attend Caddo Parish Schools, which has 12 National Blue Ribbon Schools. Moreover, active-duty families on base can use the School of Choice program to enroll at any Bossier Parish school, regardless of zone.

What gates are open at Barksdale AFB?

The West Gate (Shreveport Gate) is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is the primary entry point for most visitors. Meanwhile, the North Gate (Bossier Gate) is open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., Saturday from 6 a.m. to noon, and is closed on Sundays and federal holidays.

Does Barksdale AFB have Space-A travel?

Yes. The Barksdale passenger terminal offers Space-A flight capability. Contact the terminal at (318) 456-8814 or DSN 312-456-8814, or email 2lrsato.distro@us.af.mil. Eligibility follows standard DoD Categories I–VI, so confirm your documents — CAC, leave forms, and dependent IDs — are in order before arriving at the terminal.

What medical care is available at Barksdale AFB?

The 2nd Medical Group provides primary care for active-duty members and enrolled dependents on base. Contact the clinic at barksdale.tricare.mil to establish care immediately after arrival. For specialty care, TRICARE connects you to civilian providers in the Shreveport-Bossier area. Notably, the on-base Immunization Clinic is where you get your children’s Louisiana Shot Records for school enrollment.

What is the Child Development Center (CDC) situation at Barksdale?

The CDC at Barksdale accommodates 190 children from 6 weeks to 5 years old. However, all age groups currently have waitlists. Submit DD Form 2606 with a copy of your PCS orders as early as possible — your waitlist date is based on your application postmark. The CDC is open Monday through Friday, 6:15 a.m. to 6 p.m., with income-based fees and no annual registration charge.

Is Barksdale AFB a good assignment for military families?

Overall, most families rate Barksdale positively, especially for the affordable cost of living and tight-knit community feel. However, the mission tempo is high — the 2nd Bomb Wing is an operational unit with frequent TDYs and exercises. Families who connect with the FRG and the PCS Pay It Forward® community early tend to have the smoothest experience.

How far is Barksdale AFB from major cities?

Barksdale is conveniently positioned in the Ark-La-Tex region. Dallas is 185 miles to the west (approximately 2.5 hours). Little Rock is 175 miles to the north (about 2.5 hours). Jackson, Mississippi is 220 miles to the east. New Orleans is 325 miles to the south, accessible via I-49 and I-10 in approximately 4–4.5 hours.

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Key Takeaways

• Apply for on-base housing immediately. The Balfour Beatty waitlist runs 1–3 months. Don’t wait until after you arrive to start the application.
• Your BAH goes far here. With the cost of living 15% below the national average and rents starting around $1,200–$1,300 for a 3-bedroom, most grades will cover housing comfortably with room to spare.
• Call the School Liaison before choosing a neighborhood. Bossier Parish is A-rated, but campus quality varies. The liaison at (318) 456-4098 can match your child’s needs to the right school before you sign a lease.
• CDC waitlists start the moment orders arrive. Submit your DD Form 2606 with PCS orders immediately — the postmark date locks in your spot.
• Get a sponsor through your gaining unit as soon as possible. Sponsors are invaluable for navigating in-processing, temporary lodging, and the first-week checklist.
• Connect with the community before you arrive. The Barksdale PCS Pay It Forward® group and your free PCS Plan give you a support network on the ground before your household goods even ship.