Edwards Air Force Base

Updated: September 27, 2023
In this Article

    Edwards Air Force Base (AFB) in California is the core location for the Air Force Test Center, Air Force Test Pilot School, and NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center. It primarily conducts aerospace system research, development, and testing. Notably, the base has aided the advancement of aircraft like the Bell X-1, North American X-15, and the Space Shuttle and supported commercial aerospace industry testing.

    Base Operator:
    661-277-1110

    Address:
    90 Farrell Drive
    Building 5620
    Edwards AFB, CA 93524

    Edwards AFB History

    Established in the 1930s as Muroc Field, it underwent several renamings before settling on Edwards AFB in 1950. The base is notable in aviation history, highlighted by events like Chuck Yeager breaking the sound barrier and the Space Shuttle’s first landings.

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    Edwards AFB Housing

    At the military base, housing options are diverse and cater to a variety of needs. On-base housing is managed by a private partnership, providing a secure and convenient living environment for a large number of residents.

    Off-base housing is available in the surrounding areas of Lancaster, Palmdale, and Acton.

    How to Apply For Housing

    Corvias Military Living manages and operates housing on-base housing. There are home rentals spanning from two to four bedrooms. To apply to on-post housing, you can call 661-385-6060 or apply through their online portal.

    PCS and TDY Lodging

    Those traveling on PCS or TDY orders have priority at the on-base High Desert Inn. Make reservations as soon as you have travel orders for best results–call the High Desert Inn at 661-275-7666.

    There are some pet-friendly facilities on base, but know that demand for such facilities is high and you should book early. Due to PCS and TDY seasons, demand in general for rooms at the Inn is high–you may be issued a statement of non-availability for off-base temporary lodging, but you will not be reimbursed on your travel voucher for expenses off-base if you do not obtain the certificate prior to your expenses.

    Airmen PCSing to Edwards AFB are granted up to 30 days of lodging authorized.

    What is the BAH for Edwards AFB?

    The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) at Edwards Air Force Base varies depending on rank, years of service and dependency status. Visit the California state BAH page or see the chart below for more information.

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    EDWARDS AFB/PALMDALE, CA BAH Rates

    Military Housing Area: CA457

    Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
    E01 $2,313 $1,734
    E02 $2,313 $1,734
    E03 $2,313 $1,734
    E04 $2,313 $1,734
    E05 $2,475 $1,995
    E06 $2,829 $2,163
    E07 $2,913 $2,319
    E08 $3,006 $2,553
    E09 $3,141 $2,652
    W01 $2,850 $2,268
    W02 $2,955 $2,550
    W03 $3,066 $2,664
    W04 $3,171 $2,847
    W05 $3,300 $2,934
    O01E $2,928 $2,472
    O02E $3,048 $2,628
    O03E $3,189 $2,823
    O01 $2,526 $2,148
    O02 $2,826 $2,424
    O03 $3,063 $2,700
    O04 $3,342 $2,913
    O05 $3,540 $2,964
    O06 $3,570 $3,042
    O07 $3,597 $3,096

    For more information, look at BAH rates by state or calculate your exact BAH rate.

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    Edwards AFB Surrounding Area


    Edwards Air Force Base is located in California, approximately 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles. The base is situated in the Mojave Desert and covers an area of 470 square miles. Nearby towns include Lancaster, Palmdale, and Rosamond. The surrounding area offers a variety of outdoor and recreational attractions, including hiking and camping in the nearby Angeles National Forest, boating and fishing in the nearby Lake Palmdale, and off-roading in the nearby Jawbone Canyon. Historical and cultural sites in the area include the Antelope Valley Indian Museum, the Lancaster Museum of Art and History, and the Blackbird Airpark, which showcases the history of the SR-71 Blackbird spy plane.

    Healthcare

    On-base medical services can be found at the 412 Medical Group at Edwards AFB, offering a range of clinics and specialty care.

    Note: off-base emergency services are the only option for those living on Edwards AFB.

    Childcare

    The Edwards AFB Child Development Centers (CDCs) offer several different options for childcare.

    The Edwards AFB CDC welcomes children aged six weeks to age 5. Notably, the Edwards CDC holds accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This NAEYC Accreditation greatly supports CDC Staff in cultivating a shared dedication to quality.

    Schooling

    There are no DoDDS schools located at Edwards Air Force Base. Children living on base attend schools in the nearby Muroc Unified School District. Off-base residents can send their children to any of the surrounding districts.

    Contact the Edwards AFB School Liason at 661-277-2713.

    Written by Veteran.com Team

    The editorial team here at Veteran.com works to help the U.S. military community discover the many military benefits available to them. Our team is supported by our Veteran Review Board and its Standard of Care, which all content on Veteran.com is reviewed to meet.