Buckley Space Force Base: Your Complete 2026 PCS Guide to Aurora, Colorado

Buckley AFB to Buckley SFB: What Changed (and What Didn’t)

If you’re searching for “Buckley AFB,” you’re not wrong — it’s just not the official name anymore. On June 4, 2021, the Department of the Air Force officially renamed Buckley Air Force Base to Buckley Space Force Base during a ceremony marking its realignment under the United States Space Force.

The name change reflects the installation’s growing role in space-based operations, but the day-to-day experience didn’t change. Buckley still supports missile warning, space surveillance, and communications operations through Space Base Delta 2 and its 100+ tenant units. Same families, same community, same Colorado lifestyle — just a new name on the gate.

You’ll still hear locals, veterans, and even some official documents refer to it as “Buckley AFB” or “Buckley Air Force Base.” If your orders say Buckley SFB, Buckley Space Force Base, or even still reference Buckley AFB — it’s all the same installation at 18500 East Sixth Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011.

Quick Reference:

Detail	Info
Current Name	Buckley Space Force Base (Buckley SFB)
Former Name	Buckley Air Force Base (Buckley AFB)
Date Renamed	June 4, 2021
Branch	United States Space Force
Host Unit	Space Base Delta 2 (SBD 2)
Key Mission	Space Delta 4 — Missile Warning
Location	Aurora, Colorado (zip code 80011)
Population	~11,500 (active duty, Guard, Reserve, civilians)
Economic Impact	~$1 billion annually to the local economy

Buckley is home to the Space Delta 4 (Missile Warning Delta) and supports joint operations across the U.S. Space Force, Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. The “Big Six” coalition partners include Space Delta 4, the 140th Air Wing (Colorado Air National Guard), the Navy Operational Support Center, Aerospace Data Facility-Colorado, the Army Aviation Support Facility, and the Air Reserve Personnel Center. That means you’ll meet families from every branch, giving the community a rich mix of experiences and backgrounds.

2026 BAH Rates for Buckley Space Force Base (Denver MHA)

Before you start house hunting, get familiar with the numbers. Your Basic Allowance for Housing at Buckley SFB falls under the Denver, CO Military Housing Area (MHA) and covers zip code 80011 along with surrounding communities. BAH rates for 2026 decreased by approximately 1.1% from 2025 — but Buckley still ranks as the #1 highest BAH among all Space Force bases.

2026 Enlisted BAH Rates — Denver MHA (Buckley SFB)

Pay Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1 to E-4	$2,556/mo	$1,938/mo
E-5	$2,841/mo	$2,148/mo
E-6	$3,063/mo	$2,301/mo
E-7	$3,114/mo	$2,568/mo
E-8	$3,168/mo	$2,889/mo
E-9	$3,267/mo	$2,946/mo

2026 Officer BAH Rates — Denver MHA (Buckley SFB)

Pay Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
O-1	$2,874/mo	$2,268/mo
O-2	$3,060/mo	$2,748/mo
O-3	$3,207/mo	$2,979/mo
O-4	$3,426/mo	$3,108/mo
O-5	$3,588/mo	$3,135/mo
O-6	$3,615/mo	$3,186/mo

BAH rates are effective January 1, 2026. Individual rate protection prevents your BAH from going down if your situation stays the same. Always verify your exact rate using the official DoD BAH calculator before making housing decisions. For a deeper breakdown, visit our 2026 BAH rates guide.

Cost of Living in Aurora, Colorado (2026)

Aurora’s cost of living runs approximately 25% higher than the national average, according to multiple cost-of-living indices. Here’s how the numbers break down for military families planning a move:

Category	Aurora vs. National Average
Overall Cost of Living	~25% higher
Housing	5–16% higher (varies by source and neighborhood)
Groceries	~2% higher
Utilities	~13% lower than national average
Healthcare	~15% higher
Transportation	~1% lower

Housing snapshot (early 2026):

• Median home sale price (Aurora): ~$450,000 (down ~4.8% year-over-year per Redfin)
• Median home value (Aurora): ~$410,000–$490,000 (varies by source and zip code)
• Average days on market: 61–63 days
• Median rent (Aurora): ~$1,650–$1,750/month for a 1-bedroom; ~$1,850 for a 2-bedroom
• Median household income (Aurora): ~$90,311

The good news? Utility costs in the Denver metro area tend to run below the national average, and your BAH is tax-free — which gives you real purchasing power compared to civilian counterparts. Costs vary significantly by zip code: newer developments in 80016 (southeast Aurora/Centennial corridor) can have median home prices near $775,000, while neighborhoods in 80012 average closer to $325,000.

A Personal Financial Counselor (PFC) at the Military & Family Readiness Center can help you build a spend plan. Call (720) 847-6681 to schedule an appointment.

Pro tip: Use our PCS Plan© tool to map your BAH against local housing costs and find the sweet spot between commute time and monthly savings.

Where to Live Near Buckley Space Force Base

Housing around Buckley SFB is as diverse as the families who serve here. The Buckley PCS Pay It Forward® community has identified five top areas military families love — each offering something unique for every lifestyle and budget.

#1 — Aurora

Just minutes from base, Aurora is the most popular choice for Buckley families. Neighborhoods like Murphy Creek, East Quincy Highlands, and Southlands feature newer homes, community pools, and family-friendly parks. Short commutes, good access to shopping, and a wide range of price points from affordable apartments to newer single-family builds.

#2 — Parker

Located southeast of the base, Parker offers a small-town feel with upscale amenities and top-rated Douglas County schools (Niche Grade: A-). Families love its local farmers markets, vibrant downtown, and easy access to trails and outdoor recreation. Expect higher home prices but excellent school quality.

#3 — Centennial

A perfect middle ground between Denver and Buckley, Centennial combines suburban peace with urban convenience. Mix of established neighborhoods, great restaurants, shopping centers, and easy access to I-25 and E-470.

#4 — Denver Tech Center (DTC)

If you prefer city life, the Denver Tech Center offers modern apartments, trendy dining, and quick highway access to both Buckley and downtown Denver. Ideal for dual-income families or those seeking a vibrant social scene.

#5 — Southlands Area

Centered around Southlands Shopping Center, this neighborhood blends suburban living with walkable convenience. Great schools, frequent community events, and a short drive to Buckley.

Tip: Before you decide whether to rent or buy, compare your BAH against local home prices — the VA Home Loan makes buying a home in Colorado surprisingly attainable with zero down payment, no PMI, and competitive rates. Check out our PCS Resources page for a full breakdown of renting vs. buying.

On-Base Housing at Buckley SFB: Hunt Military Communities

On-base housing at Buckley Space Force Base is privatized and managed by Hunt Military Communities. Hunt operates single-family homes and townhomes across several neighborhoods on the installation, including the Monarch neighborhood, which offers a central location with convenient access to community amenities and the greater Denver metro area.

How to Apply for On-Base Housing

Contact the Buckley SFB Housing Management Office (HMO) as soon as you receive your orders. Waitlists can vary by rank and family size, so getting your name in early matters.

Detail	Info
Housing Management Office	17300 E. Keystone Blvd., Aurora, CO 80017
Phone	(720) 847-5815

Important: All service members PCSing to Buckley are required to visit the Housing Management Office before signing any off-base lease, rental agreement, or sales contract. The HMO team provides referrals, relocation assistance, guidance on lease agreements, and support with tenant-landlord issues.

Unaccompanied Housing is available for E-1 through E-4 with less than three years of service. Contact the HMO for availability and assignment details.

If your household goods won’t fit entirely in your on-base home, you may qualify for Non-Temporary Storage (NTS). You have 30 days from your lease start date to submit a request through the HMO.

Temporary Lodging: Rocky Mountain Lodge

If you need a place to stay while you find permanent housing, the Rocky Mountain Lodge on Buckley SFB is the go-to option. It’s open 24/7 and located at 345 S. Beaver Creek St., Building 331.

Reservations & Front Desk: (720) 847-5899 (DSN: 847-5899)

Rocky Mountain Lodge Rates

Season	VQ	TLF	DV Suites
April – October	$161/night	$178/night	$194/night
November – March	$144/night	$152/night	$151/night
Pet-Friendly TLF	—	Add $10/night	—

Rates are subject to change. Pets are only allowed in designated pet TLF units.

Check-in: 2:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM

Good to Know:

TLF units include full kitchens — ideal for families in transition. Pack N’ Plays and highchairs are available in all TLF units. Rickenbacker’s Coffee Shop in the lodge lobby serves Starbucks coffee and breakfast items Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–10:00 AM. Free wireless internet throughout the facility. A business center with computers, printer, and fax is available in the lobby. All guests on official travel must pay with a Government Travel Card. The lodge is entirely non-smoking — a $150 cleaning fee applies for violations. Marijuana possession and consumption are prohibited on all federal installations, including Buckley SFB and the lodge, regardless of Colorado state law.

Book early, especially during summer PCS season (May through August), when rooms fill up fast. If the lodge is full, the front desk can point you toward off-base options nearby. The Buckley SFB PCS Pay It Forward® Facebook group also maintains a list of private short-term housing options, including Airbnbs and furnished rentals shared directly by members.

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🎯 Ready to Start Planning Your Move?

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Build your personalized PCS Plan© — it covers housing timelines, school enrollment deadlines, moving checklists, and more. Explore your VA Home Loan options if you’re thinking about buying. And browse all of our PCS Resources for guides on DITY moves, tax write-offs, and military moving tips.

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Schools Near Buckley Space Force Base

There are no DoDEA schools on Buckley SFB, but military families have access to several strong public school districts in the surrounding area. Colorado also allows Choice Enrollment, giving families the option to apply to schools outside their assigned attendance zone — which is a real advantage when you’re choosing a neighborhood.

School Districts Serving Buckley Families

District	Niche Grade	Enrollment	Notes
Cherry Creek School District	A	~51,800 students	Ranked #6 in Colorado. Serves most of east Aurora and Centennial. Top-rated high schools include Cherokee Trail HS and Grandview HS.
Douglas County School District	A-	~61,400 students	Ranked #12 in Colorado. Serves Parker, Castle Rock, and parts of south Aurora. Excellent elementary and middle school options.
Aurora Public Schools	C+	~36,000 students	Serves central and north Aurora. Wide variation in school quality — some standout programs like Aurora Quest K-8 (ranked #3 in CO elementary).
Denver Public Schools	B-	~87,000 students	Relevant if you live in west Aurora or near the DTC. Magnet and charter school options.

Key schools military families frequently choose:

• Cherokee Trail High School (Cherry Creek) — Niche Grade: A. One of the top-rated high schools in Aurora.
• Grandview High School (Cherry Creek) — Niche Grade: A. Strong academics and athletics.
• Aurora Quest K-8 (Aurora Public Schools) — Ranked #3 among CO elementary schools for proficiency.
• Altitude Elementary (Cherry Creek) — Ranked #21 among CO elementary schools.
• STEM School Highlands Ranch (Douglas County) — K-12 STEM focus, highly rated.

Real talk: Cherry Creek and Douglas County are the strongest districts in the area. If school quality is your top priority, focus your housing search in neighborhoods that feed into those districts. Aurora Public Schools has some excellent individual schools, but quality varies more widely across the district. Your School Liaison Officer can help you sort through the options — reach out before you arrive.

School Liaison Officer

Buckley’s School Liaison Officer (SLO) is a free resource that helps military families navigate school transitions — enrollment timelines, record transfers, gifted and special education programs, and district contacts. Connect with the SLO through the Military & Family Readiness Center at (720) 847-6681.

Child Care & Youth Programs at Buckley SFB

Finding reliable child care is one of the first things military families tackle during a PCS. Buckley SFB has solid options on base.

Child Development Centers (CDC)

Buckley operates two CDCs that provide care for children from 6 weeks through kindergarten age:

Center	Capacity	Hours
A-Basin CDC (Building 351)	170 children	Mon–Fri, 6:15 AM–5:45 PM
Crested Butte CDC	233 children	Mon–Fri, 6:15 AM–5:45 PM

Both centers are accredited and follow Department of Defense standards for early childhood education. Waitlists can be long — submit your application through MilitaryChildCare.com as soon as you have orders in hand. Don’t wait until you arrive.

Family Child Care (FCC)

If the CDC waitlist is longer than your timeline, Family Child Care providers on and near the installation offer licensed in-home care options. The FCC program is coordinated through the 460th Force Support Squadron and provides more flexibility with hours and care styles.

Youth Programs

For school-age kids, Buckley Youth Programs offer before- and after-school care, summer camps, sports leagues, STEM activities, and special events throughout the year. Programs run through the 460th Force Support Squadron and are designed to help kids build friendships quickly — especially helpful for children adjusting to a new school after a PCS.

Buckley SFB Medical & Healthcare: 460th Medical Group

Healthcare at Buckley Space Force Base is provided through the 460th Medical Group, located in Building 600 at the corner of A-Basin and Aspen streets.

Key Medical Contacts

Service	Phone
Appointments (Primary Care)	(720) 847-WELL (9355)
Behavioral Health	(720) 847-9355, option 1
Beneficiary Counseling (TRICARE)	(720) 847-6137
Military & Family Readiness Center	(720) 847-6681

Services available on base: Public Health, Flight Medicine, Primary Care, Optometry, Immunizations, Mental Health, Family Advocacy, Physical Therapy, Dental, Laboratory, and Pharmacy.

Services available through TRICARE referral: Specialty care, inpatient care, emergency care. The 460th Medical Group does not have an emergency room. For emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital — the University of Colorado Hospital is about 5 miles from base at (720) 848-0000.

Pharmacy Hours

Day	Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday	7:30 AM–4:30 PM
Wednesday	10:00 AM–4:30 PM

For maintenance medications, TRICARE mail-order pharmacy through Express Scripts is also an option.

TRICARE Enrollment

If you’re new to the area, update your TRICARE enrollment and select a primary care manager (PCM) at the 460th Medical Group as early as possible. Appointments fill up quickly during peak PCS season. The TRICARE Service Center is located at 830 Potomac St, Suite 115, Aurora, CO 80010.

Base Amenities at Buckley SFB

Commissary

The Buckley SFB Commissary is open 362 days per year (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day). Services include a full bakery, deli with party trays, sushi bar, and Click 2 Go online ordering for curbside pickup. Check commissaries.com for weekly sales flyers.

Base Exchange (BX)

The BX is operated by AAFES and provides retail shopping, a food court, and services including a barber shop and optical shop. Check the 460th Force Support Squadron site for current hours.

Fitness Center

The Buckley Fitness Center is a fully equipped facility with a 4,600 sq. ft. weight room, basketball and racquetball courts, indoor track, cardio room, aerobic rooms, and sauna.

Day	Hours
Monday–Friday	5:30 AM–8:00 PM
Saturday, Sunday, Holidays	24/7 access (CAC registration required)

Phone: (720) 847-6679. The facility includes a Kid’s Room with a fenced-off play area, TV, and children’s movies so you can work out while your little ones are supervised. Group fitness classes run daily — check the schedule at the front desk.

Outdoor Recreation & ITT

The Information, Tickets & Travel (ITT) office is one of the best-kept secrets on base. They offer discounted tickets to ski resorts, theme parks, sporting events, and concerts, plus equipment rentals for camping, skiing, and more. Call (720) 847-6853 or visit Building 1022.

Gate Hours, Check-In & In-Processing

Knowing the gate hours before you arrive will save you a headache — especially if you’re rolling in late or on a weekend.

Mississippi Gate (Main Gate)

Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This gate can issue passes anytime, including when the Visitor Control Center is closed.

Directions: Use “S. Vail St. and E. Mississippi Ave” in Apple Maps. For other map apps, use “E. Mississippi Ave. and Aspen St.”

6th Avenue Gate

Open Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM. Hours may vary for drill weekends, holidays, and Space Base Delta 2 down days.

GPS Address: 18500 East Sixth Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011

Visitor Control Center (VCC)

Located at the Mississippi Gate. Hours: 7:00 AM–3:00 PM, Monday–Friday. Closed on weekends, holidays, and family days.

Phone: (720) 847-9381

Large Vehicle Inspection Point (LVIP)

Any trucks or vans with company logos (including moving vans) must use the 6th Ave. Large Vehicle Inspection Point, located east of the 6th Ave gate. LVIP hours: Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM. After-hours deliveries will not be processed.

In-Processing

During normal duty hours, your first stop is your Unit Command Support Staff (CSS). They’ll walk you through the in-processing checklist and point you toward required appointments, including the Finance Office in Building 1030 for your travel voucher. All incoming personnel attend a Newcomer’s Briefing hosted by the Airman & Family Readiness Center — members from other branches are strongly encouraged to attend as well.

You’re also required to visit the Housing Management Office before entering into any lease or rental agreement off base.

For general questions before you arrive, call the Buckley SFB phone menu at (720) 847-9011 or the Information & Referral line at (720) 847-6681.

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Getting to Buckley SFB from Denver International Airport

Denver International Airport (DIA) is the closest major airport and sits just 12 miles from Buckley — about a 20-minute drive in normal traffic.

Driving Directions from DIA to Buckley SFB:

1. From the Arrival Terminal, follow the Airport exit signs
2. Continue onto Peña Blvd
3. Keep left to stay on Peña Blvd
4. Take the US-70 E / 40th Ave / Airport Blvd exit
5. Continue onto N. Airport Blvd (3.3 miles)
6. Turn left on E. 6th Ave — Buckley SFB main gate will be on your right

Shuttle Service

The Buckley ITT office offers airport shuttle service:

• Cost: ~$40 per person one-way, $70 round trip
• Pick-up/Drop-off: ARPC, Rocky Mountain Lodge, and Buckley Family Housing
• Reservations required at least 24 hours in advance
• Book: Call (720) 847-6853 or visit ITT in Building 1022

Other Routes to Buckley

• From I-225: Take Exit 9 for 6th Ave / CO-30. Travel east on 6th Ave ~2.5 miles, crossing Chambers Road and Buckley Road, to the main gate.
• From I-70 West: Exit south onto Airport Blvd (Exit 285), which becomes Buckley Rd. Go south past Colfax Ave ~2.5 miles. Turn left (east) onto 6th Ave, then ~1 mile to the main gate.
• From I-70 East: Exit south onto I-225 (Exit 283), then follow the I-225 directions above.
• From I-25 North: Take the I-225 exit (Exit 200), then follow the I-225 directions.
• From I-25 South: Take the I-70 exit (Exit 214), then follow the I-70 West directions.

Rideshare & Public Transit

Uber is approved for use on Buckley SFB. Over 100 vetted drivers have DBIDS access for pick-up and drop-off on the installation. Only pre-approved drivers receive your ride request, and all passengers are verified at the gate.

RTD buses and Light Rail are free for active-duty military with a military ID. RTD doesn’t provide direct access onto Buckley SFB, but it’s useful for getting around the Denver metro area.

🎯 Using Your VA Home Loan in Colorado

Colorado’s housing market can be competitive, but your VA Home Loan benefit is a powerful tool — zero down payment, no PMI, and competitive rates. With 2026 BAH rates at Buckley running $2,556–$3,615/month depending on rank and dependents, many families find that a VA-backed mortgage is actually less than what they’d pay in rent.

If you’re considering buying near Buckley Space Force Base, start the pre-approval process early — Colorado’s market moves fast and having your financing ready gives you a real advantage. Our PCS Resources page has step-by-step guidance on VA Home Loan eligibility, the buying process, and how to connect with local experts who understand military buyers.

Buckley SFB Phone Directory & Key Contacts

Save these numbers before you arrive. Having the right contact can save hours of frustration during a PCS.

Office	Phone
Buckley SFB Main Line / Phone Menu	(720) 847-9011
Information & Referral	(720) 847-6681
Housing Management Office	(720) 847-5815
Rocky Mountain Lodge (Lodging)	(720) 847-5899
460th Medical Group (Appointments)	(720) 847-9355
Behavioral Health	(720) 847-9355, opt. 1
TRICARE Beneficiary Counselor	(720) 847-6137
Military & Family Readiness Center	(720) 847-6681
Security Forces (non-emergency)	(720) 847-9250
Visitor Control Center (Mississippi Gate)	(720) 847-9381
460th Force Support Squadron	(720) 847-6919
ITT / Outdoor Recreation	(720) 847-6853
Fitness Center	(720) 847-6679
Snow Line (delays/closures)	(720) 847-SNOW (7669)
On-Base Emergency	911 (landline) or (720) 847-9117 (cell)
Nearest ER: UC Health	(720) 848-0000

Download the AF Connect app after you arrive to stay connected with Buckley SFB announcements, events, and resources. For a complete base phone directory, visit buckley.spaceforce.mil.

Things to Do Near Buckley SFB: Aurora & Denver Attractions

One of the biggest perks of a Buckley assignment is the sheer amount of things to do within an easy drive. Colorado delivers year-round, whether your family is into outdoor adventures, museums, or weekend road trips.

Outdoor Recreation

Cherry Creek State Park is just minutes from base — 4,000 acres with a reservoir for swimming, fishing, sailing, and paddleboarding, plus miles of trails for hiking and biking. There’s a dog off-leash area and a shooting range. Aurora Reservoir is a local favorite for paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing, with a great swim beach for families in summer. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is only 14 miles from Buckley — 15,000 acres of nature trails, wildlife viewing (including wild bison and bald eagles), and catch-and-release fishing with free admission.

Family-Friendly Attractions

The Denver Zoo has 3,500+ animals across 600 species and is open 365 days a year. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science draws nearly two million visitors annually with exhibits on dinosaurs, space, gems, and Egyptian mummies, plus an IMAX theater. The Children’s Museum of Denver features interactive exhibits designed for newborn through age 8. The Downtown Aquarium offers a million gallons of underwater exhibits, a full-service restaurant, and an interactive stingray touch tank. Elitch Gardens is Denver’s theme and water park with over 50 rides — discount tickets are often available through Buckley’s Outdoor Recreation office.

Day Trips & Weekend Getaways

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is about 40 minutes from base — world-famous for concerts, but the park itself is free to visit for hiking and stunning views. Rocky Mountain National Park is about 90 minutes northwest — Trail Ridge Road, alpine lakes, and elk sightings make this a must-do Colorado experience. For skiing, Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Vail are all within a 1.5–2.5 hour drive. Many offer military discounts, and the Buckley ITT office frequently has discounted lift tickets.

Shopping

Southlands Shopping Center is an outdoor lifestyle center near base with dining, retail, and community events. Park Meadows Mall has over 185 shops and restaurants with a Colorado lodge atmosphere. Cherry Creek Shopping Center is Denver’s premier shopping destination with 160+ stores. 16th Street Mall downtown offers 16 blocks of shopping, dining, and entertainment with a free shuttle running the full length.

Dining & Restaurants Near Buckley Space Force Base

You won’t go hungry near Buckley. Aurora and the surrounding area have a wide range of restaurants, from quick lunch spots to date-night destinations.

Quick & Casual: Smash Burger (13700 E. Colfax Ave.) for burgers and shakes. Phở 888 (539 Sable Blvd.) for authentic Vietnamese — a local favorite. Which Wich for made-to-order sandwiches on the go.

Sit-Down & Family-Friendly: BJ’s Brewhouse (14442 E. Cedar Ave.) has a huge menu with something for everyone. Helga’s German Restaurant & Deli (14197 E. Exposition Ave.) is one of the most unique dining spots near base. The French Press (15290 E. Iliff Ave.) is popular on weekends for breakfast and lunch.

Date Night: Old Chicago (16990 E. Iliff Ave.) for pizza, pasta, and craft beer. Jus Grill (17200 E. Iliff Ave.) for breakfast through dinner.

On Base: Rickenbacker’s Coffee Shop in the Rocky Mountain Lodge lobby serves Starbucks coffee and breakfast items on weekday mornings. The Panther Café offers coffee and light bites through the 460th Force Support Squadron.

For the most current restaurant recommendations, ask the community inside the Buckley SFB PCS Pay It Forward® group — families share new finds all the time.

Tips for a Smooth PCS to Buckley SFB

Start Early and Stay Organized

The best PCS moves start well before the movers show up. As soon as you receive orders, build a timeline that covers housing applications, school enrollment deadlines, medical and dental record transfers, vehicle registrations, and any career licensing requirements for a spouse. Our PCS Plan© tool walks you through every step. Check out our PCS binder and checklist to stay on top of every detail.

Get Ahead of Housing

Contact the Buckley Housing Management Office at (720) 847-5815 the day you get orders. Whether you’re leaning toward on-base or off-base, the HMO is your required first stop. If you’re considering buying, start your VA Home Loan pre-approval process early — Colorado’s market moves fast.

Prepare for Colorado Weather

Colorado’s climate is semi-arid with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and dry with highs over 90°F, while winters bring single-digit lows and occasional heavy snow. Aurora averages 300+ sunny days per year, but altitude (5,300+ feet) can cause headaches, dehydration, and fatigue during your first couple of weeks. Drink more water than you think you need, take it easy on physical activity initially, and give yourself and your kids a few weeks to acclimate.

Plan for a DITY/PPM Move?

If you’re considering a personally procured move (PPM) to pocket the weight-based reimbursement, read our complete DITY move guide first. And don’t forget — many PCS expenses are tax-deductible. Our PCS tax write-off guide breaks down exactly what you can claim.

Connect Before You Arrive

Join the Buckley SFB PCS Pay It Forward® Facebook group before your move. Families already stationed here share real-time intel on neighborhoods, school registration tips, restaurant recommendations, and the kind of practical advice that only comes from people who’ve recently done the same move.

Official Mail Center

The Buckley Official Mail Center (OMC) is located at 237 N. Telluride Street (Building 207). The OMC is not a post office and does not provide outgoing personal mail services. It can open General Delivery mailboxes for personnel PCSing in or out on official military orders, and dorm mailboxes for those residing in the dorms.

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed on federal holidays and family days.

Note: Customers not on orders to Buckley cannot receive mail through the OMC — use a local USPS location to rent a PO box instead.

Why Military Families Love Buckley SFB

Families often describe their time at Buckley as the perfect balance between adventure and stability. You get to live near Denver’s big-city energy while coming home to quiet neighborhoods and breathtaking sunsets. With 300+ days of sunshine, world-class skiing less than two hours away, and a military community that genuinely looks out for each other, Buckley isn’t just where your next chapter starts — it’s a place that makes you want to stay.

Whether you’re a weekend explorer or someone who just wants a slower, family-focused pace, this duty station gives you both. The joint-force environment means you’ll meet families from every branch, and the PCS Pay It Forward® community makes sure no one navigates this move alone.

🎯 What’s Your Next Step?

Every successful PCS starts with a solid plan. Whether this is your first time heading to a Space Force base or your fifth PCS, these resources will keep you organized:

• Start Your PCS Plan© — Personalized roadmap for your move
• VA Home Loan Guide — Zero down, no PMI, competitive rates
• Find Your Base — Browse all base guides
• PCS Toolkit — Moving tips, checklists, and resources
• Military Moving Tips — Lessons learned from thousands of moves
• 2026 Military Pay Charts — Know your pay before you plan your budget

Frequently Asked Questions: PCS to Buckley Space Force Base

What is the zip code for Buckley Space Force Base?

Buckley SFB uses zip code 80011 (Aurora, CO). This falls under the Denver, CO Military Housing Area for BAH calculations. Use this zip code when looking up your 2026 BAH rate on the official DoD BAH calculator.

What are the 2026 BAH rates for Buckley SFB?

BAH rates at Buckley fall under the Denver MHA and range from $2,556/month (E-1 to E-4 with dependents) to $3,615/month (O-6 with dependents). For 2026, rates decreased by approximately 1.1% from 2025. Buckley still has the highest BAH of any Space Force base. Use the DoD BAH calculator for your exact rate.

Does Buckley SFB have on-base housing?

Yes. On-base family housing is privatized and managed by Hunt Military Communities. Contact the Housing Management Office at (720) 847-5815 as soon as you receive orders. Waitlists vary by rank and family size.

Do I have to visit the Housing Office before signing an off-base lease?

Yes. All service members PCSing to Buckley are required to receive counseling at the Housing Management Office before entering into any written lease, rental, or sales contract.

What school districts serve Buckley SFB families?

Three main districts serve the area: Aurora Public Schools, Cherry Creek School District (Niche Grade: A), and Douglas County School District (Niche Grade: A-). Cherry Creek and Douglas County are consistently rated among the top districts in Colorado. Colorado’s Choice Enrollment policy lets families apply to schools outside their assigned zone.

How far is Buckley SFB from Denver International Airport?

About 12 miles, or roughly 20 minutes by car in normal traffic. The ITT office offers shuttle service for approximately $40 one-way with 24-hour advance booking at (720) 847-6853.

What are the gate hours at Buckley SFB?

The Mississippi Gate (main gate) is open 24/7. The 6th Avenue Gate is open Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM. The Visitor Control Center at the Mississippi Gate operates 7:00 AM–3:00 PM on weekdays.

Does Buckley SFB have an emergency room?

No. The 460th Medical Group does not have an emergency department. For emergencies, dial 911 from a landline or (720) 847-9117 from a cell phone. The nearest ER is at the University of Colorado Hospital, about 5 miles from base — (720) 848-0000.

Is there temporary lodging on Buckley SFB?

Yes. The Rocky Mountain Lodge offers Visiting Quarters and Temporary Lodging Facilities (TLF), including pet-friendly units. Rates range from $144 to $194 per night depending on season and room type. Call (720) 847-5899 to book.

Can I use Uber on Buckley SFB?

Yes. Over 100 Uber drivers have been vetted and granted DBIDS access for on-base pick-up and drop-off. Only approved drivers receive ride requests from the installation.

How many child development centers are on Buckley SFB?

Buckley operates two CDCs — the A-Basin CDC (capacity: 170 children) and the Crested Butte CDC (capacity: 233 children). Both serve ages 6 weeks through kindergarten and operate Monday–Friday, 6:15 AM–5:45 PM. Register early through MilitaryChildCare.com.

What is the cost of living in Aurora, Colorado?

Aurora’s overall cost of living is approximately 25% above the national average, driven primarily by housing costs. The median home sale price is around $450,000 as of early 2026, and median rent for a one-bedroom apartment runs approximately $1,650–$1,750/month. However, utilities tend to run below the national average, and BAH is tax-free.

Key Takeaways

Your PCS to Buckley Space Force Base puts you in one of the most desirable duty stations in the military — 300+ days of sunshine, a strong joint-force community, easy access to Denver and the Rocky Mountains, and the highest BAH of any Space Force installation.

Here’s what to act on now: contact the Housing Management Office at (720) 847-5815 as soon as you have orders. Register for child care through MilitaryChildCare.com immediately — waitlists are real. Join the Buckley SFB PCS Pay It Forward® group today for neighborhood intel and real-time PCS advice from families who’ve been through it.

If you’re considering buying, start your VA Home Loan pre-approval now — Colorado’s market rewards prepared buyers. And build your PCS Plan© to make sure nothing slips through the cracks.

Welcome to Colorado. You’re going to love it here.