Published: June 15, 2025

Military Relocation Tips for Colorado Springs

Relocating to Colorado Springs for a military assignment? Nestled over a mile above sea level at the edge of the Southern Rockies, this scenic city boasts some of the nation’s top-rated quality-of-life metrics. To help make your move stress-free and efficient, here are essential relocation tips tailored to the military community—and a detailed overview of local installations you’ll call home.

1. Start With Base Proximity & Housing

Colorado Springs hosts several key installations that shape the region’s dynamic. Knowing where these are will help you align your housing search, commute expectations, and community connections:

• Fort Carson sits south of the city and is home to a wide range of Army formations. 
• Peterson Space Force Base, formerly Peterson AFB, shares airfield operations with COS Airport and hosts NORAD, USNORTHCOM, Space Operations Command, and more. 
• Schriever Space Force Base, approximately 10 miles east, controls satellite networks and GPS operations for the Space Force. 
• Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, adjacent to Peterson, is the NORAD alternate headquarters and a hardened command center within Cheyenne Mountain. 
• U.S. Air Force Academy, just north of Colorado Springs, develops cadets and is a major installation of education, training, and facilities.

Choosing housing near your installation saves commute time—Colorado Springs traffic can escalate during peak hours.

2. Understand the Elevation & Climate

At roughly 6,000 to 7,000 feet, Colorado Springs’ altitude can affect newcomers. Stay hydrated and take it easy during outdoor activities until acclimated. Winters bring snow and lows in the teens; summers are generally mild, but thunderstorms and high UV levels are common.

Pro Tip: Rent a property with insulated windows and efficient HVAC. Check community weather trends before scheduling move-in or outdoor gear deliveries.

3. Plan Your Home Search

Whether renting or purchasing, start early. Popular neighborhoods near Peterson and Academy include Briargate and Powers Corridor; Fort Carson commuters often prefer Fountain or south-end homes. Consider:

• Proximity to schools, medical care, and shopping 
• Altitude effects on lawn/garden care systems 
• HOA policies related to outdoor gear (RV parking, satellite dishes)

Reach out to the base housing offices—Peterson, Schriever, Cheyenne Mountain, and Academy each have community liaisons who offer a trove of localized guidance and home-finding support.

4. Vehicle Prep & Registration

If you’re bringing a personal vehicle, Colorado’s emissions rules apply in the region. Check with the Department of Motor Vehicles for requirements. Without reliable public transit between bases, your car will be essential, especially for commutes to Schriever, which sits farther east.

5. Know Your Installation Services

Each installation delivers unique support options:

• Fort Carson offers robust recreational, DEERS, family support, emergency services, and childcare facilities. 
• Peterson Space Force Base houses the Peterson Air and Space Museum with historical exhibits, plus robust medical, dental, and morale services. 
• Schriever Space Force Base has its own clinic, fitness facilities, and exchange assets—all to support its roughly 8,000 military personnel and staff. 
• Cheyenne Mountain provides secure access for certain certifications and limited recreational facilities in a secure perimeter. 
• The U.S. Air Force Academy offers base access for academic, athletic, and recreational amenities, including hiking, training fields, and cadet facilities.

Register for base access early; processing times can vary, impacting access to services and event coordination.

6. Embrace the Outdoors and Community

The region is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular options include:

• Hiking and biking trails near Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods 
• White-water rafting, fishing, and camping on nearby mountain rivers 
• Community races (Pikes Peak Ascent), charity rides, triathlons, and base-run groups 
• Family-friendly attractions like the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Air Force Academy Visitor Center, and Peterson Air and Space Museum

Engagement within local spouse and Family Readiness groups provides instant support and camaraderie.

7. Schools, Daycare & Education

Colorado Springs features well-rated public schools and numerous faith-based or charter private schools. For Fort Carson families, the district around Fountain is a convenient choice. Peterson and Academy commuters enjoy access to quality schools in the northern suburbs. Don’t delay daycare applications—they fill up quickly.

8. Pet Care at Altitude

Altitude can be challenging for pets, too. Gradually introduce them to hikes and snow. Vet clinics around Fort Carson and Peterson specialize in high-altitude needs. Look for groomers familiar with seasonal coat changes.

9. Health & Mental Wellness Support for Your Military Relocation

Mental health services are robust at Peterson, Schriever, Fort Carson, Academy, and Cheyenne Mountain. Use relocation periods to set up appointments, especially for family-oriented care or child services.

10. Local Flavor & Culture

• Downtown Colorado Springs: breweries, galleries, live music 
• Garden of the Gods: iconic sandstone formations 
• Old Colorado City & Manitou Springs: charming local shops and eateries 
• Military-themed events showcase strong veteran and active-duty support—tune into base bulletins.

Relocating to Colorado Springs for military service offers access to unique installations: Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, Cheyenne Mountain SFS, and the Air Force Academy. By planning for altitude, transportation, installation access, and schooling, you’ll ensure a smoother, more enjoyable transition. With the region’s abundant recreational and cultural assets, your family can thrive both on and off base. Welcome to life one mile high—embrace the journey ahead!

Looking for the right company to assist with your relocation to Colorado Springs? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Colorado Springs or call (719) 602-8995 for a free quote.