Your Complete PCS Guide to Davis-Monthan AFB

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Davis-Monthan AFB: Quick Facts

Branch	U.S. Air Force
Location	Tucson, AZ 85707
Host Unit	355th Wing
Mission	A-10C Thunderbolt II operations; electronic combat
Notable Feature	309th AMARG (“The Boneyard”) — largest aircraft storage facility in the world
Nearest Major Airport	Tucson International Airport (TUS) — ~5 miles
Climate	Hot desert; 330+ sunny days/year, mild winters, hot summers (105°F+)
Installation Website	davis-monthan.af.mil
DSN Prefix	228

BAH Rates for Davis-Monthan AFB (Tucson, AZ)

BAH for Davis-Monthan is calculated under the Tucson, AZ BAH area (MHA code AZ015). Rates below reflect the official 2026 figures effective January 1, 2026.

Pay Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-3	$1,695	$1,272
E-4	$1,695	$1,272
E-5	$1,905	$1,428
E-6	$2,121	$1,587
E-7	$2,145	$1,701
E-8	$2,178	$1,953
E-9	$2,253	$2,007
O-1E	$2,148	$1,902
O-2E	$2,190	$1,995
O-3E	$2,289	$2,109
O-4	$2,400	$2,139
O-5	$2,550	$2,154
O-6	$2,568	$2,175

Always verify current rates using the official DoD BAH calculator — rates can be updated mid-year. For the full breakdown of how BAH works, visit our 2026 BAH rates guide. And to see how your housing allowance fits into your overall compensation picture, check out our 2026 military pay charts.

Housing at Davis-Monthan AFB

On-Base Housing: Soaring Heights Communities

On-base housing at Davis-Monthan is managed by Soaring Heights Communities. The neighborhoods include a range of home sizes from 2- to 4-bedroom homes depending on rank and family size.

Soaring Heights Communities — Contact Info:

• Phone: (844) 388-5002
• Housing Management Office: (520) 228-3687
• Office Address: 8090 Ironwood St, Tucson, AZ 85708
• Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Website: soaringheightscommunities.com

Real talk on base housing: Reviews from residents are genuinely mixed. Some families have had excellent experiences with responsive maintenance and a great sense of community. Others have reported issues with maintenance response times, billing disputes, and move-out charges. If you do live on base, document everything in writing from day one — photos at move-in, written service requests, all of it. Connect with the Davis-Monthan PCS Pay-It-Forward® Facebook group for candid, current feedback from families actually living there now.

Wait times: DM typically has a waitlist for on-base housing. Contact Soaring Heights as soon as you have your orders — don’t wait until you arrive. If you’re placed on the waitlist, you’ll need to live off-base in the interim.

Off-Base Housing in Tucson

Tucson’s cost of living is one of its biggest selling points. Housing is significantly more affordable than most Air Force assignments, and your BAH goes a long way — many families can find a 3-bedroom house at or under their full BAH amount.

Most popular neighborhoods for DM families:

Rita Ranch / Vail — Southeast Tucson, about 10–15 minutes from the main gate. Newer construction, excellent schools (Vail School District ranks #2 in Arizona), and very popular with military families. Expect to pay $1,600–$2,200/month for a 3-bedroom rental.

Midvale Park / South Tucson — Closer to base, more affordable. Older housing stock but great for quick commutes. Some neighborhoods here are worth researching carefully before committing.

Civano / Houghton Road Corridor — Newer planned community with a neighborhood feel. A bit further east, but very popular with families who want space and newer homes. The $1,700–$2,400/month range covers most options here.

Sahuarita / Green Valley — About 20–25 minutes south of base. Very quiet, affordable, and family-oriented. Popular with families who prioritize space over commute time.

East Tucson — Good middle ground with access to shopping, restaurants, and the base. Neighborhoods like Tanque Verde and Saguaro Hills offer solid schools and a suburban feel.

Pro tip from DM families: Avoid signing a lease before visiting in person if at all possible. Tucson neighborhoods can vary dramatically block by block, and photos don’t always tell the full story. If you can’t do a house-hunting trip, lean on the DM PCS Pay-It-Forward® group — members post about specific streets and neighborhoods regularly. Our military moving tips guide also has advice on making smart housing decisions when you can’t visit first.

Planning to Buy a Home Near DM?

Tucson’s real estate market is still relatively affordable compared to most military markets, and using your VA home loan benefit here can be a smart financial move. No down payment, no PMI, and competitive rates.

→ Learn How to Use Your VA Home Loan

Schools Near Davis-Monthan AFB

There are no DoDEA schools at Davis-Monthan AFB. All children attend local public or charter schools, and the options vary significantly depending on where you live off-base. Fortunately, the Tucson area has a wide range of choices, including two schools located directly on the installation.

On-Base Schools

Borman K-8 School (TUSD, on-base)

• Address: 6630 E Lightning Dr, Tucson, AZ 85708
• Phone: (520) 584-4600
• Website: bormank8.tusd1.org
• Grades: K–8
• District: Tucson Unified School District

Borman is a TUSD school located directly on base, and it’s deeply embedded in the military community. Staff turnover is low and the school culture is well-suited to families who PCS frequently — teachers here understand military life.

Sonoran Science Academy (charter, on-base)

• Grades: 6–12
• Tuition: Free (public charter school)
• Focus: College-preparatory curriculum with STEM emphasis

Sonoran Science Academy is a tuition-free public charter school located on the installation, serving middle and high school students. It’s a strong option for families who want a more rigorous academic environment than TUSD’s neighborhood schools.

TUSD High Schools Serving DM Families

Palo Verde High Magnet School

• Address: 1302 S Avenida Vega, Tucson, AZ 85710
• Phone: (520) 584-7400
• Grades: 9–12
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Rincon High School

• Address: 421 N Arcadia Ave, Tucson, AZ 85711
• Phone: (520) 232-5600
• Grades: 9–12
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:45 AM – 3:45 PM

Your School Liaison Officer (SLO)

The DM School Liaison Officer is your best first call for school enrollment questions, district boundary issues, special education navigation, and finding the right fit for your kids. Contact the SLO at (520) 228-6040 — this is a free resource specifically for military families in transition.

Real talk on schools: TUSD has a mixed reputation, and academic performance varies significantly by campus. Many military families who live off-base explore charter school options like BASIS Tucson or Sonoran Science Academy. Families living in Rita Ranch or Vail access the Vail School District instead of TUSD, and Vail consistently ranks among Arizona’s top districts. Do your research based on your specific neighborhood and your kids’ grade levels — where you live determines which district you’re in. The DM PCS Pay-It-Forward® group is invaluable for real feedback from parents currently navigating this.

For the official TUSD school finder, visit tusd1.org. Arizona also has open enrollment, meaning students can apply to attend schools outside their residential area.

Medical Care at Davis-Monthan AFB

Davis-Monthan Medical Clinic (MTF)

• Address: 4175 S Alamo Ave, Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ 85707
• Phone: (520) 228-2778
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Closed weekends

The clinic provides primary care for active-duty members and their families enrolled in TRICARE Prime. Real talk: Appointment availability is the most consistent complaint from DM families — waits of 4+ weeks for non-urgent appointments are common. If you have a family member with chronic health needs, research your TRICARE network options in Tucson early. There are solid TRICARE-network providers in the community who can offer much faster access. For TRICARE enrollment and finding network providers, visit tricare.mil or call TRICARE West at 1-844-866-9378.

Base Facilities & Services

Commissary

• Address: 5455 E Comanche St, Tucson, AZ 85707
• Phone: (520) 543-6810
• Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Well-stocked and highly rated (4.6 stars). Families note the meat and deli departments are strong; produce gets mixed reviews.

Main Exchange (BX)

• Address: 5405 Granite St, Tucson, AZ 85708
• Phone: (520) 748-7887
• Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Large, recently cleaned up, with tax-free pricing. Good for electronics, clothing, and household items.

Temporary Lodging (TLF / Air Force Inns)

Davis-Monthan TLF

• Phone: (888) 235-6343

Family rooms are well-appointed with laundry and full kitchen setup — highly rated by recent visitors.

Air Force Inns

• Address: 3230 Davenport St, Tucson, AZ 85708
• Phone: (520) 228-3309

Consistently excellent reviews. Make reservations early — TLF fills up fast during PCS season (May–August). Reservations are available around the clock; confirm pet-friendly room availability when booking.

Outdoor Recreation

• Address: 3965 Craycroft Rd, Tucson, AZ 85711
• Phone: (520) 228-3736
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Equipment rentals (bikes, camping gear, trailers), discounted tickets to local attractions, and tour bookings. A great first stop when you arrive.

Visitors Center (Gate Access)

• Address: Craycroft Rd, Tucson, AZ 85707
• Phone: (520) 228-0135
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 5:30 AM – 9:30 PM

Highly rated for fast visitor pass processing. Bring vehicle registration and proof of insurance.

Living in Tucson: What DM Families Say

Tucson surprises people. It’s easy to see “desert” on the assignment sheet and picture a flat, barren landscape, but Tucson sits at over 2,400 feet elevation, surrounded by five mountain ranges — the Rincons, the Catalinas, the Tucson Mountains, the Santa Ritas, and the Huachucas in the distance. Additionally, the city has a surprisingly rich culture, food scene, and outdoor recreation community.

Weather: The Real Story

Tucson averages 330+ sunny days per year, with mild winters (highs in the 60s and 70s from November through March) and very hot summers. Expect 100–108°F days from June through September. The monsoon season (July–mid-September) is genuinely spectacular — dramatic afternoon and evening thunderstorms that cool things down and make the desert bloom overnight.

Honest note on summer: It’s hot. It’s dry heat, which many people find more manageable than humid climates, but it’s still triple digits for several months. Pools and early morning outdoor activity become a lifestyle. Most families adjust quickly; your kids will adapt faster than you will.

Outdoor Recreation — Tucson Is Exceptional

This is where Tucson shines brightest for military families who love the outdoors.

Sabino Canyon Recreation Area — One of the most beautiful hiking areas in the Southwest, 20 minutes from base. Free tram tours, easy family hikes, and epic backcountry trails. Learn more.

Coronado National Forest — Surrounds Tucson on multiple sides, offering everything from beginner trails to multi-day backpacking routes and camping. Free with the America the Beautiful pass.

Colossal Cave Mountain Park — About 30 minutes from base and great for families with kids. Cave tours, hiking, and history. Open daily 9 AM – 3/4 PM depending on the season.

Saguaro National Park — Located literally on the edges of the city and free with your National Parks pass. Two separate districts (east and west) with iconic saguaro forests, trails for all ages, and brilliant sunsets.

Skiing at Mt. Lemmon — Yes, you can ski in Arizona. Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley is about 45 minutes from base and gets real snow in winter. It’s a small resort but beloved by locals.

Dining & Culture in Tucson

Tucson is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy — the first city in the United States to receive that designation. The food scene is legitimately excellent, especially if you enjoy Sonoran-style Mexican food. Local spots like El Charro Café (the oldest Mexican restaurant in the U.S.) and dozens of family-run taquerias make it easy to eat well without spending much.

Cost of Living

Tucson is one of the most affordable mid-size cities in the American Southwest. Groceries, gas, dining out, and utilities all tend to run 10–20% below the national average. Your BAH goes far here, and families consistently report saving more money at DM than at their previous assignment. To prepare your full financial picture before you arrive, use our PCS binder and checklist to make sure nothing slips through the cracks.

PCS to DM: Your Next Steps

You don’t have to figure all of this out alone. Here’s how to keep your move organized:

→ Start Your Free PCS Plan
→ Explore Your VA Home Loan Options
→ Browse All Base Guides
→ Get Your PCS Toolkit

And join the Davis-Monthan PCS Pay-It-Forward® Facebook group — it’s the fastest way to get current, honest answers from families who are at DM right now.

Frequently Asked Questions: PCS to Davis-Monthan AFB

What is Davis-Monthan AFB known for?

Davis-Monthan is home to the 355th Wing and the A-10C Thunderbolt II, but it’s perhaps most famous for the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG) — known as “The Boneyard” — the world’s largest aircraft storage and regeneration facility, with over 4,000 aircraft stored in the desert climate.

What BAH area is Davis-Monthan AFB under?

Davis-Monthan AFB falls under the Tucson, AZ BAH area (MHA code AZ015). 2026 rates range from $1,695/month (E-3 or E-4 with dependents) to $2,568/month (O-6 with dependents). Always verify current rates at the DoD BAH rate lookup tool.

Who manages on-base housing at Davis-Monthan?

On-base family housing is managed by Soaring Heights Communities. You can reach them at (844) 388-5002 or the Housing Management Office at (520) 228-3687. Their office is located at 8090 Ironwood St on base. Contact them immediately when you receive orders — waitlists exist, and waiting until arrival puts you at the back of the line.

Are there DoDEA schools at Davis-Monthan AFB?

No. There are no DoDEA schools at Davis-Monthan AFB. However, two schools are located on the installation: Borman K-8 (a TUSD public school serving grades K–8) and Sonoran Science Academy (a tuition-free public charter school serving grades 6–12). For school enrollment guidance, contact the School Liaison Officer at (520) 228-6040.

What is the medical care situation at Davis-Monthan?

The Davis-Monthan Medical Clinic (MTF) provides primary care for active-duty and TRICARE Prime enrollees. Hours are Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM; phone (520) 228-2778. Be aware that appointment availability can be limited — many families use TRICARE network providers in Tucson for routine and specialty care. Call TRICARE West at 1-844-866-9378 or visit tricare.mil to find network providers.

What are the best neighborhoods to live in near Davis-Monthan?

The most popular areas for military families include Rita Ranch/Vail (newer homes, top-rated schools, 10–15 min to gate), Civano (planned community feel, newer construction), and Sahuarita/Green Valley (very affordable, family-oriented, 20–25 min south). East Tucson also offers good suburban options with easy access to shopping and the base.

What is the weather like in Tucson at Davis-Monthan?

Tucson averages 330+ days of sunshine annually. Winters are mild (60s–70s). Summers are hot — expect 100–108°F from June–September. Monsoon season (July through mid-September) brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. It’s dry heat, which most people find more manageable than humid climates.

What outdoor activities are available near Davis-Monthan?

Tucson is an outdoor recreation paradise — Sabino Canyon, Saguaro National Park (both east and west districts), Coronado National Forest, Mt. Lemmon (with skiing in winter), and Colossal Cave Mountain Park are all within 30–45 minutes of the installation. The Outdoor Recreation office on base (520-228-3736) can help with equipment rentals and discounted tickets.

What commissary and BX options are available at Davis-Monthan?

DM has a full commissary (Mon–Sat 9 AM–7 PM, Sun 9 AM–6 PM, phone 520-543-6810) and a large main exchange/BX (Mon–Sat 9 AM–7 PM, Sun 10 AM–5 PM, phone 520-748-7887). Both are well-stocked and highly rated by residents.

How do I get a visitor pass at Davis-Monthan AFB?

The Visitors Center is located at Craycroft Rd and is open Monday–Friday, 5:30 AM – 9:30 PM. Call (520) 228-0135. Bring your ID, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Pass processing is typically fast and highly rated by visitors.

Key Takeaways

• DM is more than you expect. Tucson is affordable, sunny, and packed with outdoor recreation — most families who PCS here are pleasantly surprised.
• Contact Soaring Heights immediately when you get orders if you want on-base housing — there’s a waitlist, and waiting until arrival puts you at the back of the line. Call (844) 388-5002 or the Housing Management Office at (520) 228-3687.
• BAH goes far in Tucson. Most families can find quality 3-bedroom rentals at or under their full BAH rate, especially in Rita Ranch, Sahuarita, and East Tucson.
• There are no DoDEA schools at DM. Two schools are located on base — Borman K-8 (TUSD) and Sonoran Science Academy (charter, 6–12). Where you live off-base determines which district you’re in; Vail schools are highly rated if you live in Rita Ranch or Vail.
• The Medical Clinic has long wait times — know your TRICARE network options before you need them, not after.
• Start your PCS plan now using our free tool, download your PCS binder checklist, and join the DM PCS Pay-It-Forward® Facebook group to connect with families already at DM.