Your Complete PCS Guide to Fairchild Air Force Base (2026)

Quick Facts: Fairchild AFB at a Glance

Detail	Info
Branch	U.S. Air Force
Location	Airway Heights, WA (12 miles west of Spokane)
Major Units	92nd Air Refueling Wing (KC-135), 141st ARW (WA ANG), 336th Training Group (SERE)
Installation Size	~13,000 acres
Main Gate Address	100 Chennault Ave, Fairchild AFB, WA 99011
Base Main Number	(509) 247-5492
Nearest Major City	Spokane, WA (~20 min east)
Nearest Airport	Spokane International Airport (GEG) — ~10 min from base
State Income Tax	None — Washington has no state income tax

2026 BAH Rates for Fairchild AFB (Spokane, WA)

Fairchild falls under the Spokane, WA BAH area. Additionally, Washington has no state income tax, which effectively stretches your BAH further than it looks on paper. The tables below reflect the official 2026 rates effective January 1, 2026.

2026 Enlisted BAH Rates — Spokane, WA

Pay Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1 / E-2 / E-3 / E-4	$1,947	$1,611
E-5	$2,184	$1,665
E-6	$2,553	$1,914
E-7	$2,658	$1,995
E-8	$2,772	$2,262
E-9	$2,901	$2,367

2026 Officer BAH Rates — Spokane, WA

Pay Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
O-1	$2,235	$1,707
O-1E	$2,679	$2,181
O-2	$2,550	$2,106
O-2E	$2,826	$2,343
O-3	$2,844	$2,418
O-3E	$2,937	$2,547
O-4	$3,048	$2,658
O-5	$3,195	$2,721
O-6	$3,222	$2,826

Always verify current rates at the official DoD BAH calculator — rates are updated annually each January.

The good news: Spokane’s housing market is genuinely competitive at BAH rates for most ranks. Specifically, E-5s and E-6s can typically find 3-bedroom homes off base without going significantly out of pocket. Meanwhile, O-3s and above have solid options in the better school districts throughout the metro area.

Use our full 2026 BAH rates guide to look up rates for every pay grade and compare them across duty stations.

On-Base Housing at Fairchild AFB

On-base family housing at Fairchild is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities. Separately, unaccompanied personnel housing (UPH) is available for junior enlisted through a different office.

Balfour Beatty Family Housing

• 📍 210 Bong St, Building 2190, Fairchild AFB, WA 99011
• 📞 (509) 244-6500
• ⏰ Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Wed until 6:00 PM)

Unaccompanied Personnel Housing (UPH)

• For unaccompanied Airmen E-1 through E-3, and E-4 with fewer than 3 years of service
• 📞 (509) 247-3275

Military Housing Office

• 📍 210 Bong St, Fairchild AFB, WA 99011
• 📞 (509) 247-5185

What to know before you sign a lease with Balfour Beatty: Fairchild’s on-base housing gets mixed reviews, and you should go in with eyes open. The community managers are generally responsive and maintenance issues tend to get addressed. However, the homes use lower-quality materials — things wear out faster than you’d expect, especially with kids or pets. If you have pets, read the lease terms carefully. Specifically, residents have reported unexpected pet-related charges at move-out.

On the flip side, living on base means you’re five minutes from the flight line and within walking distance of the BX and commissary. You’re also plugged into the base community from day one — a real advantage for first-duty-station families. Therefore, request your housing application as soon as your orders are confirmed. Waitlists can run 3–6 months depending on rank and family size.

Additionally, ask specifically about the condition of your unit before signing. Do a thorough move-in inspection and document everything with photos.

Off-Base Housing: Best Neighborhoods Near Fairchild AFB

Most families at Fairchild live off base in the communities west of Spokane. Furthermore, off-base living often gives you more space and a quieter feel than on-base neighborhoods. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular areas:

Airway Heights

The closest community to base — 5–10 min commute.

Airway Heights is the small city directly adjacent to Fairchild’s main gate. It’s affordable, convenient, and heavily military. You’ll find newer construction, easy access to the commissary and BX, and a real sense of community among military families. The trade-off is that it’s more suburban with limited dining and entertainment options. However, Billie’s Diner (a local institution at 13008 W Sunset Hwy) and West Plains Brewing are solid spots worth knowing about.

• Average rent range (2026): $1,200–$1,800/month for a 3-bedroom
• Who it’s best for: Junior enlisted, first-duty-station families, anyone wanting a short commute

West Spokane / Spokane Valley

15–25 min commute. More city feel, more options.

If you want Spokane’s amenities — restaurants, shops, parks, Riverfront Park, the Centennial Trail — West Spokane and the Valley give you that without a prohibitive commute. These areas have good schools and more housing variety. They also offer better long-term appreciation if you’re considering buying with your VA home loan. Overall, this is a popular choice for families prioritizing schools and community amenities.

• Average rent range (2026): $1,400–$2,200/month for a 3-bedroom
• Who it’s best for: O-3 and above, families prioritizing schools or buying a home

Medical Lake

10–15 min from base. Small town, quiet, affordable.

Medical Lake is a small town about 10 miles southeast of Fairchild — close to base and noticeably more affordable than Airway Heights. It has its own school district (Medical Lake School District) that gets solid reviews from military families. Consequently, this area attracts families wanting space, quiet, and lower rent without a long commute.

• Average rent range (2026): $1,100–$1,600/month for a 3-bedroom
• Who it’s best for: Families wanting more space, lower cost of living

Real Talk on Off-Base Housing

Spokane’s housing market has tightened over the past few years, but it remains more affordable than most major metro areas with an Air Force base. BAH generally keeps up with the market for most pay grades. Start your housing search at least 60–90 days out — the best rentals go fast, especially in June and July.

Join the Fairchild AFB PCS Pay-It-Forward® Facebook group — this is the best resource for real-time housing leads, landlord recommendations, and neighborhood intel from families who just made this move.

Should You Buy or Rent at Fairchild?

If you’re planning to be at Fairchild for 3+ years, buying with a VA home loan is worth serious consideration. Spokane has seen steady home appreciation. Moreover, Washington’s lack of state income tax means your overall financial picture here is favorable. The VA loan’s zero-down-payment benefit is significant in this market — it lets you build equity immediately rather than putting BAH toward someone else’s mortgage.

2026 Spokane-Area Home Price Ranges

Area	Typical Home Price Range
Airway Heights / Medical Lake	$280,000–$380,000
West Spokane	$320,000–$450,000
Spokane Valley	$300,000–$420,000

Learn how your VA home loan benefit works →

Schools Near Fairchild AFB

School options near Fairchild depend entirely on where you live. Notably, Fairchild does not have a DoDEA school — all schools serving families here are public schools. However, the school options are solid and military-connected families are well-supported throughout the area.

On-Base: Michael Anderson Elementary (Medical Lake School District)

Michael Anderson Elementary is physically located on Fairchild AFB, but it is a public school operated by the Medical Lake School District — not a DoDEA school. Students in grades PK–5 living on base typically attend here. After 5th grade, on-base students are bused to Medical Lake Middle School and Medical Lake High School, approximately 8 miles away.

• 📍 400 W. Fairchild Highway, Fairchild AFB, WA 99011
• 📞 (509) 565-3600
• ⏰ Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–3:30 PM
• Grades: PK–5
• 62% of students are at or above proficiency in math; 57% in reading — both above state averages
• Student-to-teacher ratio: 16:1

The school is well-regarded and has a strong culture of supporting military-connected students. In addition, the district has a dedicated Military Family Advocate who works directly with FAFB and transitioning families. For questions, contact rornelas@mlsd.org or call (509) 565-3273.

Medical Lake School District (Off-Base, Medical Lake Area)

Families living in Medical Lake feed into this same small, well-regarded district (~2,500 students). The district has built K-12 STEM programs in partnership with DoD. It’s also known for strong teacher-student relationships, thanks to smaller class sizes.

• 📞 (509) 565-3100 | mlsd.org

West Valley School District (Airway Heights Area)

Families renting or buying in Airway Heights and surrounding communities attend West Valley schools. The district is accustomed to military families and transitions smoothly through PCS cycles.

• 📞 (509) 922-5467 | westvalleysd.org

Spokane Public Schools (Spokane Proper)

Larger urban district with more program variety, including IB, STEM, and arts-focused schools. However, quality varies significantly by school — research individual schools before choosing your neighborhood.

• 📞 (509) 354-5900 | spokaneschools.org

Pro tip: If you have a child with special needs or an IEP, request records transfer before you arrive. Contact Fairchild’s School Liaison Officer (SLO) through the Airman & Family Readiness Center at the base main number — they’ll help with school placement, district enrollment, and transition support.

Medical Care at Fairchild AFB

92nd Medical Group (Primary MTF)

• 📍 701 Hospital Loop, Fairchild AFB, WA 99011
• 📞 (509) 247-2361
• ⏰ Mon–Fri 7:30 AM–4:30 PM

The 92nd MDG offers primary care, women’s health, pediatrics, mental health, and specialty referrals. Pharmacy service is available at the MTF and at a separate refill pharmacy near the BX.

Refill Pharmacy

• 📞 (509) 247-5567
• ⏰ Mon–Fri 7:30 AM–1:30 PM, 2:00–4:30 PM (closed weekends)

For specialist needs, expect referrals into the Spokane civilian network. Fortunately, TRICARE’s civilian network in Spokane is strong — Providence and MultiCare both have robust networks in the area. If you have a family member with ongoing specialty care needs, verify your provider network before arriving.

TRICARE Resources

• TRICARE West Region: 1-844-866-9378
• Find providers: tricare.mil/FindDoctor

What to Expect: Life at Fairchild AFB

The Mission

Fairchild is home to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, flying KC-135 Stratotankers. The 92 ARW is one of the Air Force’s largest air refueling wings. Additionally, the 141st Air Refueling Wing (Washington Air National Guard) also operates from Fairchild, flying the same KC-135 platform. Both wings conduct strategic air refueling missions that extend the reach of U.S. airpower worldwide.

Fairchild also hosts the 336th Training Group, which runs the Air Force’s SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) school. As a result, the base has a unique population of instructors and students that adds a distinct character to the community.

The 92 ARW mission comes with a real deployment tempo — TDYs are frequent. Therefore, if you’re the spouse at home managing the household, connect with the Airman & Family Readiness Center early. They have resources specifically for deployed and TDY families.

On-Base Amenities

Fairchild is a mid-size base. Here’s what you’ll find on installation:

• BX (Base Exchange): Small but adequate; good clothing sales section
• Commissary: Full-service commissary on base
• Dining facilities: 2 DFACs
• On-base dining: Burger King
• Fitness center: Available (hours vary by season)
• Chapel, legal assistance, MPF: All on base
• Child Development Center (CDC): Full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants through preschoolers

The honest truth: Fairchild’s on-base retail options are limited. However, Spokane has what you need — you’ll be driving into the city for most shopping, dining, and entertainment, and that’s perfectly manageable given the short distance.

The Spokane Area: What You’re Getting Into

Spokane is a real city of about 230,000 people, and the metro area is closer to 600,000. It’s not a military town that revolves around the base — it has its own economy, culture, and identity. For military families, that’s mostly a good thing.

What Spokane has going for it:

• Outdoor recreation: Skiing at Mt. Spokane and nearby Idaho resorts (Schweitzer, Silver Mountain), hiking, biking the 40-mile Centennial Trail, river kayaking, and fishing
• Four actual seasons: Including real snow in winter — get snow tires
• Cost of living: Significantly lower than other Pacific Northwest cities like Seattle and Portland
• No state income tax: Washington’s lack of income tax means your take-home pay goes further
• Proximity to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho: Just 30 minutes east, with beautiful lakes and a charming downtown — a favorite day-trip destination for Fairchild families

What to prepare for:

• Winter driving: Spokane gets real snow — all-season tires at minimum, snow tires strongly recommended
• Smoke season: Eastern Washington sees wildfire smoke in late summer — air quality can be poor in August and September
• Limited direct flights: Spokane’s airport (GEG) is convenient and uncrowded, but you may connect through Seattle or Portland for many destinations
• Deployment tempo: The 92 ARW keeps people busy, so build your support network before your sponsor deploys

Getting to Fairchild AFB

From Spokane International Airport (GEG): Take US-2 West approximately 10 miles. The base is on your right. Total drive time: roughly 10–15 minutes.

From I-90 heading west: Take Exit 277B onto Highway 2 heading west. Follow signs to the installation.

From I-90 heading east: Continue through Spokane and take Exit 277, which connects to Highway 2. Remain on Highway 2 through Airway Heights and follow signs to the base.

Gate Access: All visitors require a valid ID and vehicle registration. Government ID holders enter through the main gate on Chennault Ave. Contractors and visitors should use the visitor control center. Commercial vehicles have a designated gate — follow signs clearly marked on approach.

PCS Checklist: Before You Arrive at Fairchild

• ☐ Contact Housing (Balfour Beatty: 509-244-6500 or Military Housing Office: 509-247-5185) to get on the waitlist or begin your off-base search
• ☐ Register with DEERS and update your records
• ☐ Request school records transfer and contact the School Liaison Officer through the Airman & Family Readiness Center
• ☐ Enroll in TRICARE West Region (1-844-866-9378)
• ☐ Update vehicle registration — Washington requires registration within 30 days of establishing residency
• ☐ Get a Washington State driver’s license within 30 days of arrival
• ☐ Plan for snow tires before your first November in Spokane
• ☐ Connect with the Fairchild AFB PCS Pay-It-Forward® Facebook group for real-time tips
• ☐ If moving yourself: review your DITY/PPM entitlements at our complete PPM move guide

Start your full PCS plan here →

Useful Phone Numbers & Contacts

Office	Phone
Base Main Number	(509) 247-5492
Housing — Balfour Beatty (Family)	(509) 244-6500
Military Housing Office	(509) 247-5185
Unaccompanied Housing (UPH)	(509) 247-3275
92nd Medical Group	(509) 247-2361
Pharmacy (Refill)	(509) 247-5567
Michael Anderson Elementary	(509) 565-3600
Medical Lake School District	(509) 565-3100
West Valley School District	(509) 922-5467
Spokane Public Schools	(509) 354-5900
TRICARE West Region	1-844-866-9378

VA Home Loans at Fairchild: What You Should Know

Washington State is one of the better states for VA loan purchases. There’s no state income tax, no mortgage tax, and the Spokane housing market — while it has grown — remains attainable on a VA loan for most military pay grades.

If you’re thinking about buying near Fairchild, the VA loan’s zero-down-payment benefit is especially valuable in a market where home prices have climbed. You’re preserving cash while building equity, and you’re not paying PMI.

Moreover, because BAH is treated as qualifying income by lenders, your 2026 BAH rate directly boosts your home-buying power. Talk to a VA-experienced lender before your PCS move — not after you arrive.

Learn how to use your VA home loan benefit →

FAQ: PCS to Fairchild Air Force Base

What city is Fairchild Air Force Base in?

Fairchild AFB is technically located in Airway Heights, Washington — a small city approximately 12 miles west of downtown Spokane. Most people, however, refer to it as the Spokane area. The base ZIP code is 99011.

What units are at Fairchild AFB?

The primary active-duty unit is the 92nd Air Refueling Wing (92 ARW), which flies the KC-135 Stratotanker. Additionally, the 141st Air Refueling Wing (Washington Air National Guard) operates from Fairchild, also flying KC-135s. Fairchild is also home to the 336th Training Group, which operates the Air Force’s SERE school.

How is the housing situation at Fairchild AFB?

On-base family housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities and is available for most ranks. However, waitlists can run 3–6 months. Unaccompanied housing is available for E-1 through E-3 and E-4 members with under three years of service. Many families, consequently, choose to live off base in Airway Heights, Medical Lake, or the broader Spokane area. BAH rates are generally competitive with local rental prices for most pay grades.

Is Fairchild AFB a good duty station?

Fairchild consistently gets positive reviews from military families. The Spokane area offers a lower cost of living than most Pacific Northwest cities, excellent outdoor recreation, and no state income tax. However, the main trade-off is frequent TDYs and deployments associated with the refueling mission — so build your local support network early.

Does Fairchild AFB have a DoDEA school on base?

No — Fairchild does not have a DoDEA school. Michael Anderson Elementary is physically located on base, but it is a public school operated by the Medical Lake School District (grades PK–5). After 5th grade, students are bused to Medical Lake Middle and High Schools. Notably, the district has a dedicated Military Family Advocate to support transitioning families.

What is the BAH rate at Fairchild AFB in 2026?

Fairchild uses the Spokane, WA BAH area. Specifically, rates range from $1,611/month (E-1 through E-4 without dependents) to $3,222/month (O-6 with dependents). See the full BAH tables above or use the DoD BAH calculator for your specific grade and dependency status.

What medical care is available at Fairchild AFB?

The 92nd Medical Group (MTF) provides primary care, women’s health, pediatrics, pharmacy, and specialty referrals. Hours are Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–4:30 PM. For after-hours urgent care, TRICARE West Region (1-844-866-9378) can direct you to network urgent care facilities in Spokane. In addition, TRICARE’s civilian network through Providence and MultiCare is strong in the Spokane area.

Does Washington State have income tax?

No — Washington State has no state income tax. As a result, this is a meaningful financial benefit for military members stationed at Fairchild. It effectively increases take-home pay compared to many other duty stations.

What is the closest airport to Fairchild AFB?

Spokane International Airport (GEG) is approximately 10 miles east of the base — about a 10–15 minute drive. It’s a manageable regional airport with direct flights to Seattle, Portland, Denver, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and other hub cities. Furthermore, the airport is notably uncrowded compared to major metro airports.

Is it worth buying a home near Fairchild AFB?

For members expecting a tour of 3 years or more, buying with a VA loan is worth serious consideration. Spokane home prices are moderate, the no-income-tax environment is favorable, and the VA loan’s zero-down benefit is significant. Moreover, BAH counts as qualifying income for your loan approval. Talk to a VA-experienced lender before your PCS to understand your options.

Key Takeaways

• Fairchild is a solid duty station. Spokane is a real city with real amenities, a lower cost of living than most of the Pacific Northwest, and no state income tax — all of which work in your favor financially.
• Start housing early. On-base waitlists can be 3–6 months. If you want on-base family housing, contact Balfour Beatty (509-244-6500) as soon as your orders are confirmed.
• BAH is workable. Most pay grades can find off-base housing within BAH without going significantly out of pocket, especially in Airway Heights and Medical Lake.
• Schools are public, not DoDEA. Michael Anderson Elementary is on base but run by Medical Lake School District — it’s a solid school, and the district has dedicated support for military families. However, expect a different transition experience than a DoDEA school.
• Plan for deployments and TDYs. The 92 ARW keeps a real deployment tempo. Build your local support network early — the Fairchild AFB PCS Pay-It-Forward® group is the best place to start.
• Winter tires are not optional. Eastern Washington gets real snow. Budget for all-season or snow tires before your first November in Spokane.
• Use your VA loan if you’re buying. Zero down, no PMI, and a favorable tax environment make Spokane one of the better markets to use your VA benefit in the Pacific Northwest. Learn more →
• Start your full PCS plan here →