PCS to Sheppard Air Force Base: Your 2026 Guide to Wichita Falls, Texas

About Sheppard Air Force Base

Mission and Units

Sheppard AFB sits just north of Wichita Falls along the Texas-Oklahoma border. It’s the Air Force’s largest and most diversified training installation in Air Education and Training Command (AETC). Specifically, the base is home to two major wings:

• 82nd Training Wing — Known as “Logistics University,” the 82nd TW delivers technical training across more than 900 formal officer and enlisted courses. These courses cover aircraft maintenance, logistics, civil engineering, cyber, and ICBM maintenance. The wing trains more than 60,000 Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines each year.
• 80th Flying Training Wing — Home of the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training (ENJJPT) program. This program brings combat pilot trainees and instructors from NATO allied nations around the world. As a result, Sheppard is one of the most internationally diverse bases in the Air Force.

On any given duty day, more than 20,000 permanent party members, Airmen in Training, and support personnel are present on Sheppard AFB. Moreover, the base hosts the Noncommissioned Officer Academy and supports students from more than a dozen NATO partner nations.

Base Address and Gate Access

Location / Office	Address	Phone	Hours
Main Address	1810 J Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76311	—	—
Main Gate (Burkburnett Rd / TX-240)	Sheppard Access Rd & TX-240	—	24/7
Visitor Control Center	Main Gate area	—	Mon–Fri, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM (closed weekends & holidays)
Base Operator	—	(940) 676-2000	24/7

All visitors require a DoD or Federal-issued ID card, or a Sheppard AFB visitor pass. Permanent party members arriving during duty hours (Mon–Fri, 0800–1630) should report directly to their Commander’s Support Staff for in-processing.

2026 BAH Rates for Sheppard AFB

Your Housing Allowance Goes Far Here

One of the first things families notice about Sheppard is how well BAH stretches in Wichita Falls. The local housing market is well below the national average. Consequently, many service members — particularly at mid and senior enlisted grades — find their BAH covers a full mortgage payment on a 3-bedroom home. In fact, Sheppard consistently ranks among the best duty stations in the country for BAH-to-housing-cost ratios.

For 2026, Sheppard AFB BAH rates increased 4.4% from the prior year. The rates below are effective January 1, 2026. They apply to the WICHITA FLS/SHEPPARD AFB, TX Military Housing Area (MHA code TX288).

Pay Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
Enlisted
E-1	$1,392	$1,044
E-2	$1,392	$1,044
E-3	$1,392	$1,044
E-4	$1,392	$1,044
E-5	$1,491	$1,182
E-6	$2,112	$1,584
E-7	$2,190	$1,644
E-8	$2,271	$1,704
E-9	$2,427	$1,821
Warrant Officer
W-1	$2,133	$1,602
W-2	$2,223	$1,668
W-3	$2,328	$1,827
W-4	$2,463	$2,127
W-5	$2,634	$2,208
Officer
O-1	$1,572	$1,290
O-2	$2,106	$1,647
O-3	$2,325	$1,887
O-4	$2,691	$2,187
O-5	$2,955	$2,229
O-6	$2,979	$2,304

For full 2026 BAH details across all duty stations, visit our 2026 BAH Rates guide or use the official DoD BAH calculator to verify your exact rate by zip code.

Thinking about buying instead of renting? With a VA Home Loan, many Sheppard families purchase a home with zero down payment. Moreover, their monthly payment often falls below their BAH. That’s a combination that’s hard to beat at most other installations. Start a PCS Plan© to connect with a vetted, military-experienced real estate agent in the Wichita Falls area.

Housing at Sheppard AFB

On-Base Housing

On-base family housing at Sheppard is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities. The community is entirely pet-friendly — including large breed dogs, though restrictions on breeds and numbers apply. Three distinct neighborhoods offer a range of floor plans, and availability by rank and floor plan type varies.

Apply as soon as you receive your PCS orders. The earlier you apply, the better your position on the waitlist. However, current wait times vary, so contact the MHO directly to ask about availability:

Office	Address	Phone
Military Housing Office (Family)	310 H Ave, Bldg 373, Sheppard AFB, TX 76311	(940) 676-1840
Unaccompanied Housing (Enlisted)	310 H Ave, Bldg 373, Sheppard AFB, TX 76311	(940) 676-1674
Unaccompanied Housing (Officers)	310 H Ave, Bldg 373, Sheppard AFB, TX 76311	(940) 676-3648

Unaccompanied Airmen in ranks E-1 through E-3, and E-4 with fewer than three years of service, are typically required to live in Unaccompanied Housing (dormitories). These include private sleeping rooms with linens, furnishings, and supplies. Contact your gaining unit and request a sponsor to assist with housing registration upon arrival.

Off-Base Neighborhoods Near Sheppard AFB

Most permanent party families choose to live off base in the Wichita Falls area. Fortunately, the local market is extremely affordable — the median home price in Wichita Falls is approximately $190,000, well below the national median. For most pay grades, BAH covers rent or a mortgage payment comfortably. Below are the top neighborhoods military families choose.

Wichita Falls (Closest to Base)

Wichita Falls sits just outside the main gate and offers the widest range of housing, dining, and amenities. You’ll find everything from newer subdivisions to established neighborhoods. Commute times to base are typically 10 minutes or less. In particular, neighborhoods like Faith Village and areas near Kemp Boulevard are popular with military families for their affordability and easy access to shopping.

Burkburnett (North, ~15 Minutes)

Burkburnett is a small, family-oriented town popular with military families who prefer a quieter pace of life. It features highly rated schools in Burkburnett ISD and a close-knit community feel. Additionally, the commute to base is consistently under 15 minutes, even during peak hours. Housing here is notably affordable, even by Wichita Falls standards.

Iowa Park (West, ~20 Minutes)

Iowa Park offers small-town charm with outdoor recreation areas like Gordon Lake. Homes here are affordable, and Iowa Park CISD has a strong reputation. In fact, many families choose Iowa Park specifically for the school district and the lower property taxes compared to Wichita Falls proper.

Holliday (Southwest, ~25 Minutes)

Known for its excellent school district and strong community spirit, Holliday is a top pick for families who prioritize academics. Its school district — Holliday ISD — earns consistently solid ratings. Newer homes with more land are also available at prices that work well with BAH. The commute to Sheppard runs about 25 minutes via US-277.

Lakeside City (Near Lake Wichita)

Lakeside City provides scenic views near Lake Wichita and a quieter suburban feel. It’s close enough to enjoy city amenities. However, it still offers a slower pace of life — a good fit for families who want a nature-adjacent neighborhood without a long commute to base.

Explore the Sheppard AFB PCS Pay It Forward® interactive map for verified base addresses, kid-friendly restaurants, and local businesses offering military discounts. Join the Sheppard AFB PCS Pay It Forward® group to access the map and get neighborhood insights from families already living there.

In-Processing at Sheppard AFB

Permanent Party In-Processing

Permanent party members who arrive during duty hours (Monday–Friday, 0800–1630) should report directly to their Commander’s Support Staff. All personnel must comply with Air Force Instruction 36-2903 on dress and appearance. Therefore, contact your gaining unit well before you arrive — ideally 30 to 60 days out. Confirm reporting instructions and any unit-specific requirements in advance.

Household Goods and Transportation Office

Start your household goods shipment coordination as early as possible. Specifically, the Transportation Office handles all PCS-related move arrangements and can connect you with DITY/PPM options. For full details on maximizing your move, see our DITY/PPM Move Guide.

Office	Address	Phone
Household Goods / Transportation Office	426 5th Avenue, Building #402, Sheppard AFB, TX 76311	(940) 676-2457 or (940) 676-5499

Not sure what to budget for your move? Our PCS tax write-offs guide covers which moving expenses you can deduct. Additionally, our PCS binder checklist keeps everything organized from order receipt to final delivery.

Technical Training Student In-Processing

Airmen in Training (AiT) arriving at Sheppard are each assigned a Military Training Leader (MTL) upon arrival. The MTL assists with the transition and all in-processing steps. Notably, students should bring all items issued at basic training at Lackland AFB. They’ll have the opportunity to shop at the Base Exchange on their first night at Sheppard.

Medical Care at Sheppard AFB

On-Base Medical: 82nd Medical Group

The 82nd Medical Group (82 MDG) is the primary medical facility at Sheppard AFB. It provides primary care, dental services, and mental health support. For appointments and referrals, contact the Health Services Coordinator or the TRICARE Nurse Advice Line.

Service	Phone	Website
82nd Medical Group (Health Services)	(940) 676-2273	sheppard.tricare.mil
TRICARE Nurse Advice Line	1-800-874-2273	tricare.mil

Off-Base Medical

For specialty care not available on base, United Regional Health Care System in Wichita Falls is the go-to option. It’s the area’s primary civilian hospital and handles specialty referrals for TRICARE beneficiaries. Additionally, the Wichita Falls area has numerous TRICARE-authorized providers for routine and ongoing care.

Schools and Childcare Near Sheppard AFB

K-12 School Districts

Notably, Sheppard AFB does not operate a DoDEA school on base. Most permanent party families rely on the public school districts in the surrounding area. Specifically, the main districts serving military families are:

School District	Area Served	Notes
Wichita Falls ISD (WFISD)	Wichita Falls city limits	Largest district; serves grades K-12; diverse academic and extracurricular offerings
Burkburnett ISD	Burkburnett, north of base	Highly rated; smaller class sizes; popular with military families
Iowa Park CISD	Iowa Park, west of Wichita Falls	Strong reputation; excellent extracurriculars
Holliday ISD	Holliday, southwest of base	Consistently strong academic ratings; tight-knit community

For school-specific guidance, contact the School Liaison Officer (SLO) at the Airman & Family Readiness Center at (940) 676-6774 or DSN 312-736-6774. In particular, the SLO can advise on enrollment timelines, district boundaries, and special programs that may meet your child’s needs.

On-Base Childcare and Youth Programs

The Child Development Center (CDC) on base offers daycare and preschool options for younger children. Additionally, youth programs on base provide activities and sports for school-age children. However, availability is limited and waitlists are common — register as early as possible after receiving orders.

Higher education opportunities are available nearby at Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls) and Vernon College. Both institutions have strong track records of serving military-connected students and offer flexible scheduling options.

Cost of Living in Wichita Falls

One of the Most Affordable Duty Stations in the Air Force

The cost of living in Wichita Falls is well below the national average. This is, in fact, one of the best-kept secrets about Sheppard AFB. The median home price is approximately $190,000. That puts homeownership within reach for most mid-grade enlisted members. Rental rates for a 3-bedroom home typically run $1,100–$1,600 per month, meaning most pay grades see BAH surpluses rather than shortfalls.

Cost Category	Estimated Range (2026)
Median Home Price	~$190,000
3BR Rental (Off-Base)	$1,100–$1,600/month
1BR Apartment	$700–$1,000/month
Utilities (avg monthly)	$130–$200/month
Groceries (vs. national avg)	~10% below average

Because Wichita Falls is so affordable, many Sheppard families use the VA Home Loan to buy rather than rent — and they come out ahead financially even on a 3-year tour. Our VA Home Loan guide walks through eligibility, the zero-down-payment benefit, and how to use BAH to qualify. You can also reference the 2026 military pay charts to get a complete picture of your total compensation package.

Things to Do Around Sheppard AFB

Wichita Falls and Surrounding Area

Wichita Falls has more going on than its size suggests, especially for outdoor-loving military families. Moreover, the surrounding region offers easy access to larger cities for bigger excursions.

Local Highlights

• Lucy Park — Beautiful walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds along the Wichita River, anchored by the city’s iconic waterfall
• Lake Arrowhead State Park — Just a short drive south of base; excellent for fishing, kayaking, camping, and hiking
• Lake Wichita — Scenic recreation area popular with boaters and picnic-goers
• Downtown Wichita Falls — Local dining, coffee shops, breweries, and family-friendly festivals year-round
• River Bend Nature Center — Interactive nature exhibits and walking trails; great for families with younger kids
• Wichita Falls Museum of Art — Rotating exhibits and community events in downtown

Day Trips and Weekend Getaways

Sheppard’s location between Dallas and Oklahoma City opens up a lot of weekend options. Specifically, Dallas and Fort Worth are about two hours south. Oklahoma City is roughly 90 miles north — both close enough for a day trip. Additionally, Lawton, Oklahoma (home of Fort Sill) is approximately 49 miles away and offers dining, shopping, and attractions including the Comanche National Museum and a local aquarium.

On-Base Recreation

Sheppard’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) program provides a solid lineup of on-base amenities. These include a fitness center with group classes, indoor and outdoor pools, sports fields, bowling, tennis courts, and a golf course. Additionally, the Outdoor Recreation program offers equipment rentals for camping and watersports — ideal for the lakes nearby.

To explore activities and compare this installation with others in Texas, check out our Find Your Base directory or review our full PCS Toolkit for military moving resources.

Spouse Employment at Sheppard AFB

Programs and Resources

The Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) at Sheppard offers a robust suite of spouse employment resources. These include résumé workshops, job fairs, and local employer partnerships. For example, contact the A&FRC at (940) 676-2925 to schedule an appointment with a Spouse Employment Program manager.

Wichita Falls has a growing economy anchored by healthcare, education, manufacturing, and military support industries. As a result, many military spouses find work in healthcare at United Regional, in education through WFISD, or in retail and service industries. Remote work is also well-supported — the city has reliable high-speed internet infrastructure and several coworking spaces.

Additionally, Midwestern State University offers professional and continuing education programs for spouses. These programs provide degrees or certifications that transfer well across duty stations. Furthermore, the MyCAA scholarship program provides up to $4,000 in financial assistance for eligible military spouses pursuing education and training.

Key Takeaways

• BAH goes far here. 2026 rates increased 4.4% and Wichita Falls housing is among the most affordable near any Air Force installation — most mid-grade members can rent or buy well within their allowance.
• Apply for housing early. Contact the Military Housing Office at (940) 676-1840 as soon as orders arrive to secure your spot on the waitlist or begin your off-base housing search.
• Know your school district options. Burkburnett ISD, Iowa Park CISD, and Holliday ISD are consistently popular with military families; contact the School Liaison Officer at (940) 676-6774 for guidance.
• Explore your VA Home Loan benefit. At Sheppard, your BAH can realistically cover a full VA loan payment — zero down, no PMI, and total monthly costs that beat renting for many families.
• Get connected before you arrive. Join the Sheppard AFB PCS Pay It Forward® group now and build your PCS Plan© to get a personalized relocation roadmap before your move date.
• Pack for Texas summers. Wichita Falls is hot — consistently above 100°F in July and August. Budget for higher utility costs during summer months and make the lakes and base pools your best friends.

Frequently Asked Questions: Sheppard AFB

What is Sheppard AFB known for?

Sheppard AFB is the Air Force’s largest and most diversified technical training base. Specifically, it’s home to the 82nd Training Wing and the 80th Flying Training Wing. Notably, it hosts the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training (ENJJPT) program, which trains combat pilots from NATO allied nations alongside U.S. Airmen. Overall, more than 60,000 personnel from all military branches train here each year.

What are the 2026 BAH rates for Sheppard AFB?

For 2026, BAH rates at Sheppard AFB range from $1,044 per month for an E-1 without dependents to $2,979 per month for an O-6 with dependents. Additionally, rates increased 4.4% from 2025. See the full rate table above, or use the official DoD BAH calculator for your exact rate.

What neighborhoods do military families prefer near Sheppard AFB?

The most popular areas include Wichita Falls (closest to base), Burkburnett (known for excellent schools), and Iowa Park (small-town feel near Gordon Lake). Holliday and Lakeside City are also strong choices. However, all five areas sit within a 25-minute commute — so the decision often comes down to school preference and budget.

Does Sheppard AFB have on-base housing?

Yes. On-base family housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities and includes three distinct neighborhoods with various floor plans. The community is pet-friendly, including large breeds with some restrictions. Furthermore, contact the Military Housing Office at (940) 676-1840 as soon as you receive orders to get on the waitlist.

What school districts serve Sheppard AFB?

Sheppard AFB does not have a DoDEA school on base. Instead, families enroll in local public districts: Wichita Falls ISD (largest), Burkburnett ISD, Iowa Park CISD, and Holliday ISD. For enrollment guidance and district boundary information, contact the School Liaison Officer at (940) 676-6774.

How do I access medical care at Sheppard AFB?

Primary care, dental, and mental health services are available through the 82nd Medical Group on base. Call the Health Services Coordinator at (940) 676-2273 or visit sheppard.tricare.mil for appointments. Additionally, United Regional Health Care System in Wichita Falls handles TRICARE specialty referrals for services not available on base.

Is Wichita Falls affordable for military families?

Yes — Wichita Falls is one of the most affordable military communities in the country. The median home price is approximately $190,000, and 3-bedroom rentals typically run $1,100–$1,600 per month. Consequently, for most pay grades, BAH at Sheppard covers housing costs with room to spare. This makes it an excellent location to save money or build equity.

What is the in-processing procedure at Sheppard AFB?

Permanent party members arriving during duty hours (Mon–Fri, 0800–1630) should report to their Commander’s Support Staff. Airmen in Training are assigned a Military Training Leader (MTL) upon arrival who assists with in-processing. Moreover, contact your gaining unit 30–60 days before your report date to confirm reporting instructions and unit-specific requirements.

Can I use a VA Home Loan at Sheppard AFB?

Absolutely, and Sheppard is one of the best duty stations to use it. Because Wichita Falls home prices are so low relative to BAH, many Sheppard families find their monthly VA loan payment equals or falls below their housing allowance. As a result, they build equity at essentially no out-of-pocket cost. Our VA Home Loan guide covers eligibility, zero-down-payment details, and how to connect with a military-experienced lender.

What are some things to do near Sheppard AFB?

Popular options include Lucy Park, Lake Arrowhead State Park (fishing, kayaking, camping), and the River Bend Nature Center. On-base MWR offers gyms, pools, bowling, a golf course, and outdoor equipment rentals. For bigger adventures, Dallas and Fort Worth are about two hours south. Similarly, Oklahoma City is roughly 90 miles north — both are ideal for weekend getaways.