TL;DR: New Jersey is home to four active military installations — including JBMDL, the nation’s only tri-service joint base — spread across a state that sits between Philadelphia and New York City. This guide covers every installation, 2026 BAH rates, on-base and off-base housing, schools, and what military families need to know about living in the Garden State.
Your orders say New Jersey. Most people’s first reaction involves traffic and high taxes — and honestly, those concerns are fair. However, New Jersey is far more than a suburban corridor between two major cities. From the pine forests of Burlington County to the Victorian shore towns of Cape May, the state offers an enormous variety of landscapes, communities, and lifestyles. Your experience depends almost entirely on which installation you’re headed to, and each one is genuinely different.
Here’s the important thing to understand upfront: New Jersey taxes active duty military pay. That detail sets it apart from assignment states like Texas, Florida, and North Carolina. Additionally, the cost of living runs well above the national average across most of the state. However, the location, the career opportunities, and the quality of life — especially near the shore — make New Jersey a great assignment for families who go in with clear expectations and a solid financial plan.
Before diving into base-specific details, check your 2026 BAH rates so you know exactly what you’re working with. Then use this guide to match your housing budget to the right neighborhood.
New Jersey Military Installations at a Glance
New Jersey has four active military installations. Together, they cover all branches except the Marine Corps and Space Force, though both are represented at JBMDL through tenant units.
| Installation | Branch | Location | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) | Multi-Service (All 6 Branches) | Burlington / Ocean Counties | South-Central NJ |
| Picatinny Arsenal | Army | Morris County | Northern NJ |
| Naval Weapons Station Earle | Navy | Monmouth County | Central NJ / Shore |
| USCG Training Center Cape May | Coast Guard | Cape May County | South Jersey Shore |
Notably, New Jersey holds a unique place in U.S. military history. JBMDL is the only tri-service joint base in the entire Department of Defense. Every branch of the armed forces has personnel present on that single installation. That fact alone shapes the culture of south-central New Jersey in ways that are hard to explain until you’ve lived it.
South-Central New Jersey
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL)
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst spans 42,000 acres across Burlington and Ocean counties. It is the largest installation in New Jersey and one of the most significant power projection platforms on the East Coast. Established through the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure process, JBMDL merged three previously separate installations: McGuire Air Force Base, Fort Dix, and Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst.
The joint base supports roughly 40,000 military members, civilians, and family members. Its economic footprint in New Jersey is enormous — nearly 75,000 veterans live in the two surrounding counties alone. If you’re PCSing here, you are joining one of the most active military communities on the East Coast.
Mission and Major Commands
The 87th Air Base Wing runs daily operations on the installation. The 305th Air Mobility Wing executes the primary flying mission, supporting global air mobility through the McGuire section. Fort Dix hosts one of the largest Army Reserve training programs in the country, running training across a massive 31,000-acre training area. The Lakehurst section continues its legacy as a Navy aviation engineering site. Tenant units from all six branches — Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force — operate from the installation simultaneously.
For detailed base information, visit the official JBMDL website.
On-base housing
JBMDL offers on-base family housing across three distinct sub-installations. At McGuire-Dix, United Communities manages privatized housing. Their neighborhoods include Falcon Courts East, Falcon Courts North, and Starlifter on the McGuire side. On the Dix side, Garden Terrace, Laurel Hills, Holly Crest, and Grove Park round out the community options. Amenities include swimming pools, splash pads, fitness classes, community centers, 46 playgrounds, sports fields, and natural trails.
At Lakehurst, Balfour Beatty Communities manages housing through the Pinehurst Estates (also called South Village) neighborhood. Homes come in two, three, four, and five-bedroom configurations. Additionally, the Lakehurst community has access to a pool and a dog park.
Key housing contacts:
- McGuire-Dix Military Housing Office: (609) 754-3662
- Lakehurst Military Housing Office: (732) 323-2370
- United Communities (McGuire-Dix): (609) 200-0488
- Balfour Beatty (Lakehurst): (732) 408-1651
- Unaccompanied Housing (McGuire-Dix): (609) 754-5498
- Unaccompanied Housing (Lakehurst): (732) 323-1268
Important note: All unaccompanied Airmen and Sailors ranked E-4 and below must live in the Unaccompanied Housing campus. Before signing any lease or purchase contract off-post, you must report to the Military Housing Office at your sub-installation for mandatory counseling.
Off-base neighborhoods
South-central New Jersey offers a genuinely diverse range of off-base communities. The most popular neighborhoods among military families include Mount Holly, Medford, Brown Mills, Bordentown, Marlton, and Mount Laurel. Each offers a small-town feel with easy access to the base. Mount Holly is the Burlington County seat — it is charming, walkable, and historically significant.
Cherry Hill sits about 45 minutes from JBMDL and 15 minutes from Philadelphia, making it a top choice for families who want urban access. Furthermore, families who value proximity to the Jersey Shore often settle in Toms River or Lakewood in Ocean County.
Home prices in most Burlington County towns run between $200,000 and $300,000. However, Medford and Freehold area homes run higher — typically in the $400,000 to $500,000 range. This market is where a VA loan becomes a powerful tool: no down payment, no PMI, and competitive interest rates. Learn more about using your VA home loan benefit in New Jersey.
Pro tip from the community: Confirm exactly which part of JBMDL you’re working at before choosing a neighborhood. Lakehurst is geographically separate from the McGuire and Dix sections. Many families have been caught off guard by a 30-plus-minute drive they didn’t anticipate. Check your unit’s building location before signing any lease.
Schools near JBMDL
JBMDL families have access to multiple school districts depending on where they live. The primary districts serving the installation area are North Hanover Township, Northern Burlington, Pemberton Township, and Lakehurst. Fort Dix Elementary School serves students through fourth grade directly on base. Two upper elementary schools handle fifth and sixth graders. Older students attend Helen A. Fort Middle School and Pemberton Township High School.
Additionally, families may choose their preferred district at registration. For DoDEA resources and school liaison support, contact the DoDEA school liaison program for current enrollment guidance.
Medical care at JBMDL
The 87th Medical Group provides healthcare for JBMDL beneficiaries. Contact them at (609) 754-9005 or (609) 754-9602. For TRICARE enrollment and beneficiary questions, visit the JBMDL TRICARE page directly.
Dental services are available at 2417 McGuire Boulevard, McGuire AFB. Their direct line is (609) 754-3786.
Looking for a military real estate agent near JBMDL? Start your PCS Plan and we’ll connect you with a vetted agent in the Burlington County or Cherry Hill area who understands military timelines and VA loans.
Northern New Jersey
Picatinny Arsenal
Picatinny Arsenal sits in Morris County, in the rolling hills of northern New Jersey. The installation occupies approximately 6,400 acres near Lake Denmark in Jefferson and Rockaway townships. Established in 1880 as a powder depot, Picatinny grew into one of the Army’s most critical research and engineering facilities.
Mission
Picatinny is the Army’s Joint Center of Excellence for Guns and Ammunition. The installation serves as headquarters for the Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Armaments Center — formerly known as ARDEC. The mission covers research, development, acquisition, and lifecycle management of conventional weapon systems and ammunition across all branches. Picatinny is also famous for inventing the Picatinny rail, the universal accessory mounting system found on virtually every modern military small arm.
For official installation information, visit Picatinny Arsenal’s official website.
On-base housing
Picatinny Homes, managed by Balfour Beatty Communities, includes five on-post neighborhoods. Contact Balfour Beatty at (973) 328-2992 to check availability for your pay grade and family size. Homes range from three to six bedrooms in single-family and townhome styles. The Farley neighborhood serves O-4 through O-7 families and features three to six-bedroom homes with master suites, sunrooms, and ample storage. The Lenape neighborhood serves W-1 through W-9, O-1 through O-3, and senior NCO/FGO families. It sits near the PX, Commissary, and Frog Falls Aquatic Park.
For housing services questions, contact the Housing Services Office at (973) 724-2190. Report to the Housing Services Office before making any off-post rental or purchase decisions.
Off-base neighborhoods
Northern New Jersey is stunningly beautiful — and stunningly expensive. The cost of living at Picatinny runs approximately 35% above the national average. That number matters enormously when budgeting your BAH.
Off-base communities within reasonable commuting distance include Dover, Rockaway Township, Jefferson Township, Wharton, Flanders, and Succasunna. Each offers suburban living with reasonable access to the installation. Rockaway Township and Jefferson Township sit closest to the post gates and tend to be most popular with military families.
However, proximity to New York City creates serious pressure on home prices throughout Morris County. Homes in this area commonly range from $350,000 to $700,000 or more. Consequently, your VA loan is especially valuable here — learn how to maximize your VA home loan benefit in a high-cost county.
Also be aware of commute realities. Route 15 and Interstate 80 carry heavy traffic during peak hours. Budget extra time for commutes if you choose communities east of the base toward the Bergen or Essex County line.
Central New Jersey and the Shore
Naval Weapons Station Earle
Naval Weapons Station Earle is the U.S. Navy’s primary ammunition storage and supply station on the East Coast. The station sits in Colts Neck, in Monmouth County, and covers 11,134 acres. It is divided into two sections: Mainside in Colts Neck and the Waterfront Area in the Leonardo section of Middletown Township. A 2.1-mile pier at Sandy Hook Bay connects the station to the Atlantic Fleet.
Mission
NWS Earle stores, maintains, and loads ordnance for the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet. The station is also the homeport of USNS Supply (T-AOE-6), USNS Arctic (T-AOE-8), and Combat Logistics Squadron 2. Additionally, NWS Earle hosts the largest solar installation in New Jersey — the 28.5 MW Ben Moreell Solar Farm.
For official installation information, visit the NWS Earle official site.
On-base housing
NWS Earle Homes, managed by Balfour Beatty Communities, offers two, three, and four-bedroom homes for active duty Navy families. The community is walkable and pet-friendly, with playgrounds, a dog park, and a basketball court. Contact Balfour Beatty at (732) 308-1003 for availability.
The Housing Service Center processes all housing applications. Reach them at:
- Family Housing (Balfour Beatty): (732) 308-1003
- Housing Service Center: (732) 866-2217
- Unaccompanied Housing: (732) 866-2180
Use the Housing Early Assistance Tool (HEAT) to start your housing application online before your orders are finalized. This is especially helpful at NWS Earle, where on-base availability can be limited.
Off-base neighborhoods
Monmouth County is beautiful — and priced accordingly. Off-base communities popular with NWS Earle families include Colts Neck, Middletown, Tinton Falls, Red Bank, and Freehold. Red Bank is a lively small city with a strong arts and food scene. Furthermore, the area sits about 45 minutes from the heart of New York City via the Garden State Parkway or NJ Transit’s North Jersey Coast Line.
Schools for on-base families are genuinely strong. On-base students in grades K through 8 attend the Tinton Falls School District. Starting in ninth grade, students attend Colts Neck High School through a sending/receiving arrangement. Colts Neck schools consistently rank among the best in Monmouth County.
Medical care on base is limited to routine care at the Branch Medical Clinic. There is no on-site pharmacy and no emergency room at NWS Earle. For emergencies, families rely on Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune. Dental services at the base are exclusively for active duty members.
Southern Jersey Shore
U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May
Training Center Cape May is the Coast Guard’s most important installation for new recruits. Located at 1 Munro Avenue in Cape May, it serves as the sole enlisted accession point for the entire Coast Guard workforce. Every enlisted Coast Guardsman passes through this training center before reporting to their first duty station.
Mission
The training center runs the Coast Guard’s eight-week basic training program. Recruits train in lighthouse maintenance, search-and-rescue operations, ice patrolling, maritime law enforcement, and seamanship. Additionally, the installation runs advanced training programs for assigned permanent party staff. The center sits on 350 acres with 86 buildings and supports over 1,160 active duty members, reservists, civilians, and contractors.
For official information, visit the USCG Training Center Cape May official page.
On-base housing
The training center maintains 172 government-owned housing units. The breakdown covers 48 two-bedroom units, 92 three-bedroom units, and 32 four-bedroom units. Additionally, the installation provides 91 barracks rooms for unaccompanied members. Contact the housing office at (609) 898-6918 or (609) 898-6917 for availability and application information.
For MWR and lodging questions, contact the TRACEN MWR Office at (609) 898-6922. PCS personnel can make lodging reservations up to 120 days in advance.
Off-base neighborhoods
Cape May is one of the most charming duty station towns in the entire country. The city holds National Historic Landmark status and is recognized as the nation’s oldest seashore resort. Victorian architecture lines the streets downtown. The beaches are excellent, and the restaurant scene punches well above the city’s size.
However, Cape May County is one of New Jersey’s most expensive housing markets. Off-base options in Cape May proper can be steep. Many families settle in more affordable communities nearby — including Cape May Court House (the county seat), North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest. These towns sit within 15 to 25 minutes of the installation and offer significantly more affordable rents and purchase prices.
Additionally, the area sits about 45 minutes from Atlantic City. The commute to the Philadelphia metro area runs roughly 90 minutes. For families who love beach life and prefer a slower pace, Cape May is genuinely hard to beat as a duty station. For families who need proximity to a major metro area, plan accordingly.
Use our PCS Toolkit to compare housing costs across all four New Jersey installations before your final decision.
Living in New Jersey as a Military Family
New Jersey inspires passionate opinions in every military community. Some families love it fiercely. Others count the days until orders move them south. Here is the honest version of both sides.
The Tax Reality
This is the most important thing nobody tells you before you PCS to New Jersey: the state taxes active duty military pay. Unlike Texas, Florida, Washington, Nevada, and other popular assignment states, New Jersey does not exempt active duty pay from state income tax. Furthermore, New Jersey has some of the highest property tax rates in the country. Budget for both before you arrive.
There is some relief. Combat zone pay is not taxed. Additionally, SBP and RCSBP payments are exempt from New Jersey income tax. Honorably discharged veterans qualify for a $6,000 income tax exemption. Moreover, active duty members receive a property tax deferment during deployment periods. However, the bottom line remains clear: adjust your monthly budget for New Jersey income tax before you sign a lease or start the VA loan process. Read our guide to PCS tax write-offs to understand what you can recoup at filing time.
Cost of Living Across the State
South-central New Jersey — the JBMDL area — offers the most manageable cost of living of the four installations. Burlington County home prices run $200,000 to $400,000 in most communities. By contrast, northern New Jersey near Picatinny runs 35% above the national average, and Monmouth County near NWS Earle can run even higher depending on the specific zip code. Cape May County fluctuates seasonally but trends expensive year-round.
Consequently, the VA home loan is not just useful in New Jersey — it is often the difference between buying and renting. No down payment and no PMI in a high-cost market saves military families tens of thousands of dollars. Talk to a VA-experienced lender before you arrive. Start with our VA home loan guide to understand how your benefit works in a high-cost state.
Traffic and Commute
New Jersey traffic has earned its reputation. The New Jersey Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway, and US-1 all carry significant volume during peak hours. Near Philadelphia and the Route 130 corridor, commute times are moderate. Near New York City — particularly for Picatinny and NWS Earle families — traffic can add 30 to 60 minutes or more to any drive during peak hours. Plan realistically and test your commute during rush hours before choosing a neighborhood.
What Makes New Jersey Worth It
Here’s what the critics miss: New Jersey genuinely delivers on quality of life when you embrace it. The Jersey Shore — from Point Pleasant to Ocean City to Cape May — offers some of the best family beaches on the East Coast. The food culture is exceptional. New Jersey diners are a regional institution, and the pizza and Italian food around JBMDL and NWS Earle rival anything in the country.
Additionally, the state’s location between two world-class cities means your family has access to incredible cultural experiences, major airports, and entertainment options year-round. Fall foliage in Morris County is stunning. Winters bring real snow, but nothing unmanageable for most families. Summers at the shore are everything the reputation promises. For families who engage with what New Jersey offers, it is a genuinely rewarding assignment.
VA Home Loans in New Jersey
New Jersey is one of the best states in the country to use your VA home loan benefit — precisely because the market is so expensive. The VA loan’s zero-down feature eliminates the largest barrier to homeownership in a state where a 20% down payment on an average home can exceed $60,000.
Here’s how the math works across New Jersey’s military communities. In Burlington County near JBMDL, median home prices in communities like Mount Holly, Bordentown, and Marlton sit in the $200,000 to $300,000 range. In Monmouth County near NWS Earle, prices typically run $400,000 to $600,000 in many zip codes. Morris County near Picatinny regularly sees homes priced at $400,000 to $700,000 and higher. In each of these markets, eliminating the down payment — and the monthly PMI cost — changes the entire financial picture for military families.
Your 2026 BAH is designed to cover reasonable housing costs in your assigned area. However, using BAH income to qualify for a VA loan requires working with a lender who understands how to calculate military income correctly. Our network of military-specialized real estate agents and VA lenders knows these markets and these timelines. Get started with your VA home loan here and let us match you with a specialist who has worked with military families at your installation.
New Jersey Veterans and Military Financial Benefits
New Jersey offers a meaningful set of benefits for veterans and active duty service members. Understanding them before you arrive helps you budget accurately and access everything you’ve earned.
Income Tax for Military Members and Veterans
Active duty military pay is taxable in New Jersey. This is the most important financial fact for any service member PCSing here. However, there are meaningful exemptions. Honorably discharged veterans qualify for a $6,000 income tax exemption on their New Jersey return. SBP, RCSBP, and RSFPP payments are fully exempt from state income tax. Pay received in a combat zone or while hospitalized due to combat injuries is also exempt.
For detailed guidance, visit the New Jersey Division of Taxation’s veteran exemption page.
Property Tax Benefits for Veterans
New Jersey provides three significant property tax benefits for veterans and active duty service members:
- $250 Annual Property Tax Deduction: Available to honorably discharged veterans who served on active duty. File Form V.S.S. with your local tax assessor to apply.
- 100% Property Tax Exemption: Available to honorably discharged veterans with a service-connected 100% total and permanent disability rating. This is a complete exemption on the primary residence, and it passes to qualifying surviving spouses.
- Active Duty Property Tax Deferment: Service members deployed or mobilized during war may defer their property tax bill. The deferment applies to property owned solely by the service member, or jointly with a spouse. You have 90 days after deployment or mobilization to pay.
For questions about property tax exemptions, contact the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs at (609) 530-6958 or visit nj.gov/military.
Education Benefits
New Jersey National Guard members receive free enrollment of up to 16 credits per semester at New Jersey state institutions. Surviving spouses and children of Guard members may claim the same benefit. Children of veterans who were POW, MIA, or killed in service may receive free undergraduate tuition or up to $500 per year for four years.
Additional Benefits
New Jersey also provides free state park admission, free access to private beach facilities, and hunting and fishing license privileges for veterans. Veterans receive employment preference for state government positions. Three state veterans’ homes are located in Menlo Park, Paramus, and Vineland — all available to honorably discharged wartime veterans.
For a full overview of all available New Jersey military and veteran benefits, visit the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
Ready to put your New Jersey PCS plan together? Start your free PCS Plan and get a personalized checklist for your installation. Also download our free PCS binder and checklist before your move date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What military bases are in New Jersey?
New Jersey has four active military installations: Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) in Burlington and Ocean counties, Picatinny Arsenal in Morris County, Naval Weapons Station Earle in Monmouth County, and U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May in Cape May County. JBMDL is the nation’s only tri-service joint base and is the largest installation in the state.
Is New Jersey tax-friendly for active duty military families?
New Jersey is not a military-tax-exempt state. Active duty military pay is subject to New Jersey state income tax. Combat zone pay and SBP/RCSBP payments are exempt. Additionally, honorably discharged veterans qualify for a $6,000 income tax exemption. Budget carefully and account for New Jersey state tax in your monthly spending plan.
What is the BAH rate at JBMDL in 2026?
At Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, 2026 BAH for enlisted members ranges from approximately $1,581 to $2,679 depending on rank and dependency status. Officers begin at approximately $2,148 for O-1 without dependents, ranging up to approximately $2,994 for O-7 with dependents. Use the 2026 BAH calculator to find your exact rate by pay grade and zip code.
What are the best neighborhoods near JBMDL?
The most popular off-base communities near JBMDL include Mount Holly, Medford, Brown Mills, Bordentown, Marlton, Mount Laurel, and Cherry Hill. Mount Holly and Bordentown offer small-town character and lower prices. Cherry Hill is roughly 45 minutes from base and 15 minutes from Philadelphia. Before choosing, confirm which sub-installation you’ll be working at — McGuire, Dix, and Lakehurst are all at different ends of the base.
How far is JBMDL from Philadelphia and New York City?
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst sits approximately 30 miles southeast of Philadelphia and about 60 miles southwest of Midtown Manhattan. Philadelphia is roughly 45 minutes away on a good traffic day. New York City typically runs 75 to 90 minutes depending on the route and time of day. The NJ Transit rail system offers commuter train access to both cities from nearby Trenton and Burlington.
What schools are near Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst?
School districts near JBMDL include North Hanover Township, Northern Burlington, Pemberton Township, and Lakehurst. Fort Dix Elementary School serves on-base students through fourth grade. Helen A. Fort Middle School and Pemberton Township High School serve older students. Families may choose their preferred district at registration. For school liaison support, contact the JBMDL Family Readiness Center at (609) 754-3154.
Is Cape May a good duty station for Coast Guard families?
Cape May is a beautiful and unique duty station, especially for families who love the beach. The town holds National Historic Landmark status and offers a charming, small-community feel. However, Cape May County is one of the most expensive real estate markets in New Jersey. Many families settle in nearby Cape May Court House, North Wildwood, or Wildwood Crest to find more affordable housing while staying within a short commute of the training center.
Does New Jersey tax military retirement pay?
Yes, New Jersey taxes military retirement pay as regular income. This is a meaningful distinction from many other states popular with military retirees, such as Texas and Florida, which have no state income tax. However, SBP, RCSBP, and RSFPP survivor benefit payments are fully exempt from New Jersey income tax. Additionally, veterans qualify for a $6,000 income tax exemption on their annual NJ return.
Can I use a VA loan to buy a home in New Jersey?
Yes, and in New Jersey it is especially valuable. The VA loan’s zero-down feature eliminates the largest barrier to entry in one of the nation’s most expensive housing markets. Burlington County homes near JBMDL often run $200,000 to $400,000, while Monmouth County near NWS Earle and Morris County near Picatinny can run significantly higher. Using a VA loan eliminates the down payment requirement and removes monthly PMI. Learn how to use your VA home loan benefit with a lender who understands military timelines.
What property tax benefits do veterans receive in New Jersey?
New Jersey offers three property tax programs for veterans: a $250 annual property tax deduction for all honorably discharged veterans, a complete property tax exemption for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating, and a deployment deferment allowing active duty service members to defer property taxes during mobilization. Apply through your local tax assessor. For guidance, contact the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs at (609) 530-6958 or (609) 530-6854.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey has four active installations. JBMDL is the biggest and busiest — and the only tri-service joint base in the entire Department of Defense.
- New Jersey taxes your military pay. Budget for state income tax before you arrive. This is the single most important financial detail to understand before PCSing here.
- Your VA loan is especially powerful in New Jersey. The state’s high home prices make zero-down VA financing a major financial advantage. Start your VA loan process early.
- Know which sub-installation you’re working at before choosing a neighborhood. McGuire, Dix, and Lakehurst are on the same installation, but they are not next to each other. Your commute depends on where your unit is located.
- 100% disabled veterans get a complete property tax exemption. Apply through your local tax assessor and document your VA rating clearly.
- The Jersey Shore and the food are genuinely excellent. Military families who lean into what New Jersey offers consistently report positive assignments — especially around JBMDL.
- Use your PCS resources from day one. Start with your free PCS Plan, grab the PCS binder checklist, and review the 2026 military pay charts and 2026 BAH rates to build your budget before your move date arrives.
