Among the many choices an incoming UPT family has to make is the decision about where to live: on base or off. I’ve heard this dilemma so many times, I thought I’d devote a blog to it. Honestly, I had no intention of living anywhere but on base, seeing as we are only here for a year, but after being here for about 9 months, I can see why some struggle with the decision.
Pros of Base Living:
- C Convenience – Even on a small base, we have pretty much everything we need here, without having to ever leave the gates. Actually, there have been weeks where I haven’t left base at all (though those weeks made me a bit stir-crazy). Plus, I get a lot of exercise because everything is within walking distance. Not to mention, we save a ton of money on gas!
- C Security – Some neighborhoods boast a “gated community”. Mine boasts a gate and guards who carry M-16s. Somehow, I feel pretty safe here.
- C Instant friends – At first I was a bit bothered by my new home’s proximity to its neighbors, but I soon learned that being so close space-wise, builds relationships much more quickly. The faces become very familiar, the children like another of your own. Whether poolside, at the park, or grilling in the backyard, it’s pretty difficult to feel secluded for long.
- C Maintenance – On most bases, housing is now contracted out to companies who build, rent, and maintain the homes. This means that if my drain clogs or a tree falls in my yard, maintenance is just a phone call away. With a husband who is preoccupied with all things UPT, it’s pretty nice not to have to worry about those sorts of problems. Even my yard is mowed for me once a week. (Note: Are things necessarily done the way I want them all the time? No. But at least it’s one less thing to worry about.)
- C Utilities are Included – At least for now, all utilities are included with our BAH. It’s especially nice during the winter and summer, not having to worry about elevated heated and cooling costs, though we do try not to abuse the resources.
- C Feeling of Community – Even having only been here less than a year, I am amazed at the camaraderie I’ve witnessed here. From fun base events and opportunities for kids, to coming together during times of tragedy, there are few places that can claim the true spirit of community that exists on a base.
Cons of Base Living:
- D Security – Yes, this is both a pro and a con. Fortunately I value safety more than I value the ease and timeliness of getting home, but I admit, the occasional delay and random searches are a bit irksome at times. Probably, this is why I avoid leaving base some days.
- D HOA on Steroids – If you live in a covenanced community, you know what I mean. Everything is regulated – holiday decorations, wall-hangings, pet restrictions – you name it.
- D What happens to one, happens to all – Much like in an apartment building, if power is lost to one apartment, typically it affects them all. If water is shut down for maintenance, it’s off in the whole community – for as long as it takes to fix it. (This happens surprisingly often!)
- D Quality of Accommodations – Could we get a nicer home for the same money? Probably. But again, the temporary nature of this assignment really devalues this in my mind. The houses are renovated and fine, at least for the short term.
All in all, minor annoyances included, I would not change our decision to live on base. I feel like the pros definitely outweigh the cons, and regardless, we can do anything for a year!
