Cannon Air Force Base: The Complete PCS Guide

Quick Base Facts: Cannon AFB at a Glance

Installation	Cannon Air Force Base
Wing	27th Special Operations Wing (27 SOW)
Command	Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC)
Location	Clovis, NM 88103
Main Installation Phone	(575) 784-3311
A&FRC Phone	(575) 784-2528
Official Website	cannon.af.mil
Nearest City	Clovis, NM (7 miles east)
Nearest Metro	Lubbock, TX (~100 miles east)
Nearest Commercial Airport	Clovis Municipal Airport (CVN), ~10 miles
Elevation	~4,295 feet
Climate	High desert — hot summers, cold winters, very windy
Active Duty Population	~3,500–5,000 personnel

About Cannon AFB: History and Mission

Cannon AFB was established in 1942 and named after General John K. Cannon, a World War II Mediterranean combat commander. The installation sits on the Llano Estacado — the Staked Plain of eastern New Mexico. Notably, Cannon was slated for closure under the 2005 BRAC process. However, Air Force Special Operations Command selected it as a major operating location, and the base was retained and significantly expanded.

Today, Cannon is home to the 27th Special Operations Wing, one of the Air Force’s most storied special operations units. The wing flies CV-22 Ospreys, MC-130J Commando II aircraft, U-28As, and AC-130s in support of AFSOC missions worldwide. Tenant units include Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) elements and Air Force Special Operations Air Warfare Center detachments. This is an operational wing — the deployment tempo is real, and families should plan accordingly.

For more information on how your pay and allowances apply at this assignment, see our 2026 Military Pay Charts.

2026 BAH Rates for Cannon AFB

BAH at Cannon AFB is calculated for the Clovis, NM BAH area. Clovis is a small market, so rates are lower than most Air Force installations. That said, cost of living in Clovis is genuinely low — your BAH dollar typically goes further here than at higher-cost duty stations.

2026 Cannon AFB / Clovis, NM BAH Rates

Pay Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-4	$1,377	$1,116
E-5	$1,377	$1,116
E-6	$1,449	$1,152
E-7	$1,611	$1,260
E-8	$1,701	$1,332
E-9	$1,779	$1,395
O-1E	$1,377	$1,116
O-2E	$1,500	$1,197
O-3E	$1,743	$1,377
O-4	$1,851	$1,449
O-5	$1,998	$1,563
O-6	$2,148	$1,683

Rates are effective January 1, 2026. Verify your exact rate using the DoD BAH Calculator. For a full breakdown of how BAH works, visit our 2026 BAH Rates Guide.

Important note: Clovis carries one of the lower BAH rates in the Air Force. Fortunately, off-base rents are proportionally low — so your housing dollar stretches further than the number suggests. Budget carefully before committing to any lease.

Housing at Cannon AFB: On-Base vs. Off-Base

On-Base Housing: Cannon Family Homes

On-base housing is managed by Cannon Family Homes (Balfour Beatty Communities).

Contact Information:

• Leasing Office: (575) 784-7141
• Address: 401 James F. Boatwright Blvd, Cannon AFB, NM 88101
• Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Wednesday until 6:00 PM)
• Self-Help Store: 1401 Marcus St, (575) 784-9000

The housing areas include Chavez and several older legacy neighborhoods, with a mix of duplexes and standalone homes. Newer Chavez homes are generally the most desirable — larger floor plans, 2-car garages, and fenced backyards. The inventory has expanded in recent years as AFSOC grows the installation, and 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom units are available.

What the Community Says

Reviews are genuinely mixed. Families in Chavez North frequently praise quick maintenance response times, spacious layouts, good internet, a community pool, and family-friendly amenities. On the other hand, others report thin walls in duplex units, occasional winter power outages, and disputes over move-out fees.

Critical tip on the 30-day notice: Give your written notice to vacate the day your PCS orders drop — even without a firm move-out date. Multiple families have been charged a full extra month’s rent for missing this window. The company enforces it strictly. Additionally, keep copies of all written communications.

The Military Housing Office (MHO) on base is separate from Cannon Family Homes. Consequently, if you have a serious dispute, the MHO is your advocate — not the housing company.

Child Development Center

A Child Development Center (CDC) is available on the installation. However, waitlists are common at this growing special operations base. Register immediately upon receipt of orders — do not wait until you arrive.

Off-Base Housing in Clovis and Surrounding Communities

The majority of military families live off-base in Clovis. Cost of living is genuinely low by any military market standard, and your BAH can go a long way if you shop carefully.

Popular Neighborhoods for Military Families

North Clovis / Mesa School District area — Most families gravitating off-base choose north Clovis, roughly north of 21st Street. The Mesa Elementary feeder zone is popular, neighborhoods are well-maintained, and you’re close to the commercial corridor on North Prince Street (Walmart, Target, Albertsons, and most chain restaurants).

Colonial Park — Located slightly north of central Clovis, this area features a mix of new construction and established homes near a golf course. It’s one of the nicer residential pockets in town and popular with officers and senior NCOs.

West Clovis — Some families prefer a shorter drive to the base gate. The west side is older but offers larger lots and lower rents overall.

Portales, NM — About 20 miles southwest, Portales is home to Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) and has a small-town college feel. Rents are lower, though the commute adds time. Portales Municipal Schools earn somewhat better reviews than Clovis.

Texico, NM — Sitting right on the Texas/New Mexico border, Texico is also a popular option for some military families. It’s closer to base for those working near the south side of the installation.

Typical Off-Base Rental Ranges (2026)

• 2-bedroom apartment or house: $850–$1,100/month
• 3-bedroom house: $1,100–$1,500/month
• 4-bedroom house: $1,400–$1,800/month

For current listings, contact a local property manager or connect with the Cannon AFB PCS Pay-It-Forward® group — members often post rental leads before they hit the market.

Buying a Home Near Cannon AFB

Some families do purchase near Cannon, particularly on longer assignments or when family roots run local. Clovis is among the most affordable housing markets in the country, with median home prices well below national averages. However, resale can be slow in a small market — so think carefully about your ability to sell quickly if you receive short-notice orders.

If you’re considering buying, a VA home loan is almost certainly your best option — no down payment, no PMI, and competitive rates. Learn more about your VA loan benefit →

For help navigating DITY moves and what to ship vs. move personally, see our DITY/PPM Move Guide.

Medical Care at Cannon AFB

27th Special Operations Medical Group (27 SOMDG)

The primary military medical facility on base is the 27th Special Operations Medical Group.

• Address: 104 W. D.L. Ingram Ave, Cannon AFB, NM 88101
• Phone: (575) 784-2778
• Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM | Wed: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM | Closed Sat/Sun

Real talk from the community: The 27 SOMDG consistently receives low reviews from patients. Common complaints include difficulty reaching the clinic by phone, long hold times, and a sense that staffing doesn’t match the installation’s population. Consequently, many families use TRICARE Prime or Select to access civilian providers in Clovis as their primary care option rather than relying on the MTF. Plan accordingly — don’t arrive expecting the clinic to be your only option.

For after-hours guidance, use the TRICARE nurse advice line: 1-800-874-2273. Additionally, get familiar with your TRICARE plan before you arrive. Visit tricare.mil for plan options and enrollment details.

Specialty and Emergency Care

Plains Regional Medical Center — The main civilian hospital in Clovis for emergency and specialty care.

• Address: 2100 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd, Clovis, NM 88101
• Phone: (575) 769-2141
• Open 24 hours / 7 days a week

For complex specialty care, many Cannon families drive to Lubbock, TX (~100 miles) for access to University Medical Center and Covenant Health. For specialty care requiring a military facility, the nearest military hospital is Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center (WHASC) at JBSA-Lackland in San Antonio — approximately 5 hours away.

EFMP: Exceptional Family Member Program

EFMP at Cannon AFB is managed through the Airman and Family Readiness Center (A&FRC). This is a critical consideration for families with special needs members. Clovis has limited specialized medical resources overall. Families with complex medical, behavioral, or developmental needs should research local availability carefully before accepting orders. The EFMP coordinator can assist with pre-PCS assessments and help identify available services in the Clovis area.

Contact the A&FRC at (575) 784-2528 to connect with the EFMP coordinator before your move.

Veterinary Services

A military veterinary clinic is available on the installation, providing routine care, vaccinations, dental cleaning, and preventive health services for pets of active-duty members. If you’re PCSing with animals, this is an excellent resource and significantly less expensive than civilian vets in Clovis.

Schools Near Cannon AFB

Cannon does not have a DoDEA school on the installation. Children of active-duty families attend schools in Clovis Municipal Schools, Portales Municipal Schools, or Texico Municipal Schools, depending on where you live.

Clovis Municipal Schools

• District Office: 1009 N. Main St, Clovis, NM 88101
• Phone: (575) 769-4300
• Hours: Mon–Fri 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Website: clovis.k12.nm.us

Key Schools for Military Families

School	Type	Address	Phone
Barry Elementary	K–5	3401 N. Thornton St	(575) 769-4430
Sandia Elementary	K–5	2801 Lore St	(575) 769-4480
Zia Elementary	K–5	2400 N. Norris St	(575) 769-4485
Clovis High School	9–12	1900 N. Thornton St	(575) 769-4350
iAcademy	Alt/Online	1400 Cameo St	(575) 935-3259

Honest assessment: Clovis Municipal Schools receive mixed reviews from military families. State rankings and standardized test scores fall below national averages. That said, individual experiences vary significantly by school, teacher, and grade level. Furthermore, the district has experience with military families and generally understands PCS timelines. Contact the school liaison officer at the A&FRC — (575) 784-2528 — for guidance on enrollment and transitions.

iAcademy

iAcademy is a well-regarded alternative school option in Clovis. It consistently earns strong reviews for its supportive environment and individualized approach. Notably, it’s worth looking into if your student thrives in a smaller setting or needs a different academic structure.

Portales and Texico Schools

Families living in Portales or Texico attend their respective district schools. Portales Municipal Schools generally receive somewhat stronger reviews than Clovis. If school quality is a top priority, consider Portales as a housing option — the tradeoff is the commute distance. For high school athletes or students needing specific programs, call the school directly before your move.

Private school options in Clovis are primarily faith-based and worth researching if they fit your family’s needs.

Base Amenities and On-Base Resources

For a smaller installation, Cannon has solid on-base amenities. The Commissary and Base Exchange (BX) are both full-service — use them. At an isolated installation, the savings add up meaningfully over a 2–3 year tour.

Recreation and MWR

• Cannon AFB Fitness Center — Open daily with after-hours access available by application. Features a pool, track and field, TRX equipment, a family room, and a sauna.
• Cannon Lanes — Bowling alley on base, open Wednesday through Sunday.
• Cannon Library — Open on weekdays, with storytimes available for children.
• Base Theater — Shows movies on weekends.
• Auto Hobby Shop — Available for DIY vehicle maintenance at significantly lower cost than civilian shops.
• Outdoor Recreation Program — Supports access to camping gear, sporting equipment, and outdoor adventure planning.

For full facility hours and schedules, visit 27sofss.com (27th Special Operations Force Support Squadron).

Legal Assistance and JAG

The 27th SOW Staff Judge Advocate provides legal assistance by appointment, with walk-in hours also available. Contact the SJA office directly for current hours and scheduling.

Airman and Family Readiness Center (A&FRC)

The A&FRC at Cannon is your go-to resource for employment assistance, financial counseling, relocation support, deployment resources, and EFMP coordination. Phone: (575) 784-2528. Connect with them before you arrive — not after.

Getting to Cannon: Gates, Passes, and Access

Cannon has limited gate access due to its special operations mission. All visitors require a valid military ID or a visitor pass issued at the main gate. Visitors must present a government-issued photo ID, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Furthermore, enhanced security measures may apply given the AFSOC environment — allow extra time for visitor processing.

Main Gate: Highway 60/84 West (the primary route from Clovis to the installation)

Commute from Clovis: Most of the city is 10–20 minutes from the base gates. Traffic is minimal — this is not a large-installation gate-backup situation. In fact, the short commute is consistently cited as one of Cannon’s genuine quality-of-life advantages.

Living in Clovis, NM: What to Expect

Clovis has a population of approximately 39,000 people. The base is one of the largest regional employers, and the local community is broadly military-friendly. However, Clovis is genuinely small — and that takes some adjusting to, depending on where you’re coming from.

The Real Talk About Clovis

The wind. Eastern New Mexico is the high plains. Wind is a fact of life year-round, and spring brings sustained gusts that will genuinely test your patience. New Mexico dust storms (haboobs) happen. Plan for it — it’s not a dealbreaker, but it is a lifestyle adjustment.

The isolation. There is no mall, no major league sports, no concerts, no large shopping district. Clovis has Walmart, a Target, a few chain restaurants, and some genuinely good local spots. For everything else, most families make a monthly or twice-monthly Lubbock run for Costco, specialty stores, or a proper dinner out. Additionally, Albuquerque and Amarillo are options for longer day trips. Some families find the simplicity liberating; others find it difficult. Know your family before you sign a lease.

The community. Because there isn’t a lot to do outside the base bubble, people connect more deeply than at large installations. Spouse clubs, unit FRGs, and the Cannon AFB PCS Pay-It-Forward® group are all genuinely active. Lean into the community and your tour will be measurably better.

The sunsets. Not a throwaway line — the high-desert sunsets over the eastern New Mexico plains are legitimately spectacular. Many Cannon families mention them unprompted.

Spouse Employment

The Clovis job market is limited. Major civilian employers include Plains Regional Medical Center, local schools, retail, agriculture, and the base itself. Eastern New Mexico University in Portales (20 miles away) offers additional education options. Moreover, Lubbock, TX provides a more diverse employment landscape — though it requires a commute. Remote work is increasingly common among military spouses at Cannon, so factor that into your planning if it’s a possibility for your household.

Contact the A&FRC at (575) 784-2528 for employment assistance resources specifically for military spouses.

Dining in Clovis

Clovis has a limited but solid local dining scene for a small city. Community favorites include:

• The Rails — The nicest sit-down restaurant in Clovis, serving upscale American in a historic railroad-era building downtown. Open Tue–Sat for dinner, Sunday for brunch. 221 W. 1st St, (575) 935-7245.
• La Espiga De Oro — Consistently praised as a gem by the Cannon community. Authentic Mexican food, close enough to base for a great dinner out. A local institution.
• Salty Mermaid Cajun Boil — A surprising bright spot in the Clovis dining scene. Cajun seafood boils with a fun atmosphere. 320 W. 21st St, (575) 935-2121.
• Clovis Point Bar & Grill — Local favorite for American comfort food, great wings, and a neighborhood feel. 1300 Colonial Pkwy, (575) 769-7928.
• Red Door on Main — Craft beer, brunch, and a rotating local menu in a cool downtown space. 414 N. Main St, (575) 265-1489.
• Cotton Patch Café — Solid American comfort food, family-friendly, popular with military families on the north side.
• Foxy’s Drive-In — A local classic drive-in that has stood the test of time. Worth a visit.
• RibCrib BBQ — Popular chain BBQ on the north side. Good portions and family-friendly. 4020 N. Prince St, (575) 742-0200.

Grocery Shopping

• Albertsons Market — 1905 N. Prince St, (575) 769-2127. Open daily 6 AM – 11 PM.
• Lowe’s Market — 116 W. 14th St, (575) 763-6660. Open daily 7 AM – 10 PM. Locally beloved — excellent spice selection and fresh tortillas.
• S&S Supermarket — 2204 N. Main St. Family-owned, great local and Hispanic specialty products.
• Walmart Supercenter — North Prince St. Your one-stop for everything.
• Commissary (on base) — Use it consistently. At a small, isolated installation, the savings are significant over a 2–3 year tour.

Outdoor Recreation Near Cannon

The outdoor recreation around Cannon is more impressive than its reputation suggests. Specifically:

• Ned Houk Memorial Park (Clovis) — Accessible community park with basketball courts, ball fields, an archery range, an ATV track, disc golf, picnic areas, and playgrounds. A solid local option for families.
• Ute Lake State Park (~60 miles northwest) — Boating, fishing, and camping on a large reservoir.
• Bottomless Lakes State Park (~70 miles west near Roswell) — Swimming, kayaking, and camping.
• Palo Duro Canyon State Park, TX (~90 miles east) — Called the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” Hiking, horseback riding, and stunning scenery.
• Blackwater Draw Museum (~10 miles from Portales) — An archaeological site open on weekends. Unique local experience worth knowing about.
• White Sands National Park (~3 hours west) — Worth every mile of the drive for a truly singular experience.
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park (~2.5 hours south) — One of the most impressive geological features in the United States. An excellent day trip or weekend.
• Roswell, NM (~90 miles west) — Yes, that Roswell. Surprisingly fun day trip with museums, local dining, and alien kitsch.
• St. Bernard’s Farm (Clovis) — Open seasonally for a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and haunted house. Great for families with young children.

The Clovis Music Festival

Clovis has a genuinely unique piece of American music history. Specifically, the Clovis Music Festival celebrates the city’s rock-and-roll heritage — Buddy Holly, among others, recorded iconic tracks at the Norman Petty Studios here. Held annually in late September, this festival draws serious music history enthusiasts from across the country.

Day Trip Options

• Santa Fe, Taos, and Albuquerque: ~3–4 hours west
• Amarillo, TX: ~1.5 hours northeast
• Lubbock, TX: ~1 hour east (shopping, dining, concerts, medical)
• Oklahoma City: ~6 hours northeast
• Las Vegas, NV: ~9 hours west (for a long weekend)

PCS Checklist: Arriving at Cannon AFB

Before You Leave Your Current Duty Station

• Contact Cannon Family Homes at (575) 784-7141 to get on the housing wait list immediately
• Contact the 27 SOMDG to establish your TRICARE enrollment: (575) 784-2778
• Call the A&FRC at (575) 784-2528 for EFMP, employment, and relocation resources
• Register your child for the Child Development Center (CDC) — waitlists are long
• Research Clovis Municipal Schools for your children’s grade levels: (575) 769-4300
• Verify your 2026 BAH rate: DoD BAH Calculator
• Join the Cannon AFB PCS Pay-It-Forward® group for real-time community advice
• Review your PCS move entitlements and tax write-offs: PCS Tax Write-Offs Guide
• Understand your DITY/PPM options: DITY Move Guide

Upon Arrival at Cannon

• Complete in-processing at the 27th Force Support Squadron (takes approximately 3–5 days)
• Visit the A&FRC for local resources, employment assistance, and EFMP follow-up
• Tour housing neighborhoods before committing to on- or off-base
• Set up Commissary and Exchange access
• Confirm your TRICARE enrollment and identify a civilian backup provider in Clovis

Need a complete PCS planning system? Start your free PCS Plan →

For a comprehensive packing and document system, see our PCS Binder and Checklist.

For proven strategies on the move itself, visit our Military Moving Tips guide.

FAQ: PCSing to Cannon Air Force Base

What city is Cannon Air Force Base near?

Cannon AFB sits approximately 7 miles west of Clovis, New Mexico. Clovis is the closest city and is where most off-base military families live. The nearest major metro is Lubbock, Texas, about 100 miles to the east.

What unit is stationed at Cannon AFB?

Cannon is home to the 27th Special Operations Wing (27 SOW), part of Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). The wing flies CV-22 Ospreys, MC-130J Commando II aircraft, U-28As, and AC-130s in support of special operations missions worldwide. Tenant units include JSOC elements and AFSOC Air Warfare Center detachments.

What are the 2026 BAH rates for Cannon AFB?

BAH at Cannon AFB is calculated for the Clovis, NM BAH area. Rates range from approximately $1,116/month (E-4 without dependents) to $2,148/month (O-6 with dependents). Use the official DoD BAH calculator for your exact rate by pay grade and dependent status.

Is there on-base housing at Cannon AFB?

Yes. On-base housing is managed by Cannon Family Homes (Balfour Beatty Communities). Available units include 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom homes. Contact them at (575) 784-7141 as soon as you receive orders — wait times vary and filling out the application early matters.

What should I know about the Child Development Center (CDC) at Cannon?

A CDC is available on the installation, but waitlists are common due to the growing AFSOC presence at Cannon. Register as soon as your orders drop — do not wait until you arrive. Contact the A&FRC at (575) 784-2528 for current waitlist status and enrollment procedures.

What schools do kids at Cannon AFB attend?

There is no DoDEA school on Cannon. Children attend Clovis Municipal Schools, Portales Municipal Schools, or Texico Municipal Schools depending on where you live. The school liaison officer at the A&FRC — (575) 784-2528 — can help with enrollment, transitions, and school-specific guidance by grade level.

What is the deployment tempo like at Cannon AFB?

As an operational special operations installation, Cannon has a higher-than-average deployment tempo. The 27 SOW actively supports real-world AFSOC missions. Families should expect meaningful time apart and connect early with unit Family Readiness Groups and the PCS Pay-It-Forward® community.

Does Cannon AFB have an EFMP program?

Yes. The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is managed through the Airman and Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) at (575) 784-2528. Clovis has limited specialized medical resources, so families with complex medical or developmental needs should contact the EFMP coordinator before accepting orders to assess service availability.

What is there to do near Cannon AFB?

Outdoor recreation is the standout option — Ute Lake State Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park (~2.5 hours south), Palo Duro Canyon in Texas, White Sands National Park, and Bottomless Lakes State Park are all within range. Lubbock offers concerts, major shopping, and dining. Clovis itself has a surprising local dining scene and the annual Clovis Music Festival, which celebrates the city’s unique rock-and-roll history.

Should I buy or rent near Cannon AFB?

That depends on your tour length, financial situation, and family needs. Clovis home prices are very affordable, but the resale market can be slow in a small city. Many families rent for a first tour and consider buying on a second. If you buy, the VA home loan is your most powerful tool — learn more here.

Key Takeaways

• Cannon is remote — plan for it. Clovis is 100 miles from Lubbock, the nearest major metro. Go in knowing this and you’ll be fine. Go in expecting otherwise and you’ll struggle.
• BAH is lower than most Air Force installations. Clovis is a small, affordable market. Your BAH reflects that — but so do rents, which means your housing dollar goes further than the number suggests.
• On-base housing has real pros and cons. Chavez North earns strong reviews for space and amenities. However, be strictly aware of the 30-day written notice-to-vacate policy. Document everything.
• The 27 SOMDG has known access issues. Enroll in TRICARE and identify a civilian backup provider before you arrive. Don’t rely solely on the MTF.
• EFMP families: do your homework first. Clovis has limited specialized medical and developmental resources. Contact the A&FRC at (575) 784-2528 before accepting orders.
• The CDC waitlist is real. Register immediately upon receipt of orders — not after you arrive.
• Schools require research by grade level. Clovis Municipal Schools vary by campus. Call the school liaison officer at (575) 784-2528 for guidance specific to your child’s situation.
• The community makes the tour. Cannon has one of the tightest-knit military communities in AFSOC. Join the Cannon AFB PCS Pay-It-Forward® group before you arrive.
• Use your VA loan if you’re buying. Clovis home prices are low and VA loan rates are competitive. Connect with a military-friendly agent →

Find more base guides at pcspayitforward.com/find-your-base/ | Full PCS toolkit at pcspayitforward.com/pcs-resources/