How does USMilitaryMoves work?

USMilitaryMoves connects military families with verified veteran and military-spouse real estate agents. Families browse agents for free, submit referrals, and get matched with agents who understand VA loans, BAH, and PCS timelines. The platform is completely free, no fees, no commissions, no catch.

Is USMilitaryMoves free for military families?

Yes, completely free for military families and for agents. There are no fees, no subscriptions, no commissions, and no obligations. This platform exists solely to serve the military community.

What is BAH and how is it calculated?

BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) is a monthly tax-free housing stipend paid to service members who live off base. It is calculated based on three factors: your paygrade (rank), your duty station zip code, and whether you have dependents. BAH is set annually by the Department of Defense and is designed to cover median housing costs in each local market. Use the free BAH Calculator at usmilitarymoves.com/bah-calculator to look up rates by rank and installation.

What is a VA loan and can I use it more than once?

A VA loan is a mortgage benefit for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses, backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Key benefits include no down payment required, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), competitive interest rates, and no prepayment penalties. Yes, you can use your VA loan benefit multiple times as long as you have remaining entitlement or have paid off and restored a previous VA loan.

What is PCS and how long does a PCS move take to plan?

PCS stands for Permanent Change of Station, the military's process of ordering a service member to relocate to a new duty assignment. Ideally, PCS planning begins 6 months before your report date. Key milestones include receiving orders, submitting housing applications, completing a house-hunting trip, locking in housing, coordinating TMO or DITY move logistics, and in-processing at the gaining unit. Use the free PCS Mission Planner at usmilitarymoves.com/pcs-planner to generate a personalized T-minus timeline.

How do I find a military-friendly real estate agent at my new duty station?

Browse our verified agent directory at usmilitarymoves.com/agents. Every agent in the network has been identity-verified as a veteran or military spouse. You can filter by state, installation, branch of service, and VA loan experience. Each agent profile shows their military background, transaction history, and reviews from military families they have served.

What military installations have base guides on USMilitaryMoves?

USMilitaryMoves publishes comprehensive PCS guides for major military installations including Fort Liberty (Fort Bragg) NC, Camp Pendleton CA, Joint Base Lewis-McChord WA, Fort Campbell KY, Joint Base San Antonio TX, Naval Station Norfolk VA, Joint Base Charleston SC, Fort Carson CO, and MacDill AFB FL. Each guide covers neighborhoods, school ratings, BAH rates, housing intel, commute tips, and insider advice from military families. Find all base guides at usmilitarymoves.com/bases.

What is the difference between a DITY move and a government move (TMO)?

A government move (TMO or Transportation Management Office move) means the military contracts and pays movers to pack and transport your household goods. A DITY move (Do-It-Yourself, now called PPM, Personally Procured Move) means you move your own belongings and the military reimburses you based on the weight you move. A hybrid move combines both: the government ships large items and you move the rest for additional reimbursement. DITY moves can result in profit if you move efficiently, but require more planning and effort.

Can military families use their BAH to pay a mortgage?

Yes, many military families use their BAH allowance to cover their mortgage payment. With a VA loan, you can purchase a home with zero down payment and no PMI, which often results in a monthly payment comparable to or lower than local rents. A verified military real estate agent can help you determine whether your BAH will cover a mortgage payment in your new duty station market.

Who can submit a referral on USMilitaryMoves?

Anyone can submit a referral on USMilitaryMoves, no real estate license required. Military family members, command spouse leaders, chaplains, VA loan officers, out-of-area agents, and community members are all eligible. It's free to submit and free for the family. Submit a referral at usmilitarymoves.com/refer.

Navy8,000+

Naval Station Annapolis

United States Naval Academy / Naval Station Annapolis · Annapolis, Maryland

Naval Station Annapolis is the home of the United States Naval Academy, one of the premier military educational institutions in the world, training future Navy and Marine Corps officers on the banks of the Severn River where it meets the Chesapeake Bay. Annapolis itself is a historic colonial Maryland capital with a vibrant sailing culture, exceptional dining scene, and charming brick downtown. Washington DC is only 30 miles away, making this one of the most sought-after duty assignments in the Navy.

E-5 BAH: $2,298
O-3 BAH: $2,964
Avg Home Price: $550,000
Branch: Navy

Build My PCS Plan →

Neighborhoods

Annapolis Historic District

Colonial historic

$2,200 to $3,200/mo

Stunning architecture, walkable to Academy and waterfront, premium prices

Riva

Suburban

$1,900 to $2,500/mo

South Annapolis, family-friendly, good schools, waterfront access

Crofton

Planned suburban community

$1,800 to $2,400/mo

Excellent schools, golf courses, halfway between Annapolis and DC

Edgewater

Waterfront suburban

$1,900 to $2,600/mo

Chesapeake Bay tributaries, boating community, scenic living

Schools

Annapolis High School

Grades 9-12

Serves the city of Annapolis, diverse student body, solid academics

South River High School

Grades 9-12

Top-rated school in Anne Arundel County, strong college prep program

Crofton High School

Grades 9-12

Newer school with excellent facilities and academic programs

Housing Intel

On-Post Housing

On-base housing primarily for Academy staff; some family housing available

Off-Post Rental Market

Annapolis commands premium prices; Crofton and Riva offer better value for families

Commute

Most Annapolis neighborhoods are 10 to 20 minutes from the Academy. Crofton is 25 to 30 minutes.

Installation Highlights

United States Naval Academy produces Navy and Marine Corps officers in one of the most beautiful campuses in America
Historic Annapolis colonial downtown with world-class sailing, crab houses, and waterfront dining
Chesapeake Bay access for boating, fishing, and blue crab harvesting
Washington DC only 30 miles for culture, career networking, and international dining
Maryland blue crab season in summer is a cultural institution worth experiencing fully

Insider Tips

Academy events including football games, parades, and the Blue Angels airshow are open to military families and exceptional
A boat or kayak is worth the investment in Annapolis; the water defines the lifestyle here
Crofton is the best combination of school quality and affordability in the region
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge on weekends in summer can back up for miles; plan trips accordingly
Annapolis has outstanding independent restaurants; explore beyond the tourist-facing establishments on Main Street

Nearby Attractions

US Naval Academy campus and chapel
Maryland State House and colonial Annapolis historic district
Sandy Point State Park and Chesapeake Bay Bridge fishing
Washington DC Smithsonian and national monuments
Eastern Shore Maryland farms, wineries, and Chesapeake villages

School Liaison Officer

Free support for military families navigating school enrollment, records transfers, and education options near United States Naval Academy / Naval Station Annapolis.

Phone: 410-293-2320
Hours: Mon to Fri 0730 to 1630

Moving to Annapolis?

Find a verified veteran or military spouse Realtor who knows United States Naval Academy / Naval Station Annapolis and the local VA loan market.

Build My PCS Timeline

Help Us Help the Next Family

Did We Miss Something?

You know things about United States Naval Academy / Naval Station Annapolis that we do not. The best intel comes from families who actually lived there. Tell us what you know and we will add it to the guide.