MacDill Air Force Base

Updated: September 11, 2023
In this Article

    MacDill Air Force Base (MacDill AFB), located in Tampa, Florida, primarily offers air refueling and airlift support for the U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command. Both commands are headquartered at the base.

    Base Operator:
    813-828-1110

    Address:
    9211 Marina Bay Drive
    Tampa, FL 33621

    MacDill Air Force Base History

    MacDill AFB, established as MacDill Field in 1939, became MacDill Air Force Base in 1947. Over the decades, it’s transitioned roles from a base for B-47 Stratojet bombers in the 1950s-60s to a hub for F-84 Thunderstreak and later F-4 Phantom II aircraft. Today, it’s operated by the 6th Air Refueling Wing and hosts the 927th Air Refueling Wing of the Air Force Reserve Command.

    MacDill Air Force Base Housing

    Harbor Bay at MacDill manages the privatized MacDill family housing, which comprises 572 units: 169 for officers, 403 for enlisted personnel, and 12 ADA-compliant homes. Junior enlisted personnel (E1-E4) with less than three years of service can access dormitory rooms.

    Wait times for base housing update weekly. Check the waitlist to see your status after applying.

    For off-base housing, the Housing Office can assist with local options ranging from moderate to high rents.

    PCS and TDY Lodging

    MacDill AFB offers temporary housing for incoming personnel at the MacDill Inn. Incoming service members have up to 30 nights to stay in the temporary lodging. To make a reservation, call 813-828-4259.

    What is the BAH for MacDill Air Force Base?

    The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) at MacDill AFB varies depending on rank, years of service and dependency status. Visit the Florida state BAH page or see the chart below for more information.

    TAMPA, FL BAH Rates

    Military Housing Area: FL066

    Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
    E01 $2,421 $1,842
    E02 $2,421 $1,842
    E03 $2,421 $1,842
    E04 $2,421 $1,842
    E05 $2,598 $2,097
    E06 $2,727 $2,256
    E07 $2,745 $2,424
    E08 $2,754 $2,631
    E09 $2,766 $2,655
    W01 $2,742 $2,370
    W02 $2,751 $2,628
    W03 $2,763 $2,658
    W04 $2,769 $2,721
    W05 $2,775 $2,727
    O01E $2,748 $2,592
    O02E $2,757 $2,652
    O03E $2,772 $2,715
    O01 $2,622 $2,238
    O02 $2,724 $2,541
    O03 $2,760 $2,676
    O04 $2,778 $2,724
    O05 $2,796 $2,730
    O06 $2,820 $2,733
    O07 $2,841 $2,760

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

    MacDill Air Force Base Surrounding Area


    MacDill Air Force Base is located in Tampa, Florida, about 8 miles south of downtown. The base is situated on the Interbay Peninsula in Hillsborough County. The surrounding area offers a diverse range of communities, including big city downtown living, quiet golf course communities, waterfront lifestyles, majestic horse farms, and historic neighborhoods. Nearby towns include St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Sarasota. There are also several historical and cultural sites to explore, such as the Tampa Bay History Center and the Salvador Dali Museum.

    Healthcare

    The 6th Medical Group offers the MacDill Air Force Base community outpatient care. They refer patients to other military centers or civilian specialists for specialized surgical or orthopedic needs. 

    Note: MacDill doesn’t provide on-base emergency services.

    Childcare

    On-base childcare options are available at several Child Development Centers (CDCs). Services include full day, part day, 24/7 and extended care. Those programs help families with children ranging from preschool aged to infants. There is also a school year care program for students.

    Schooling

    MacDill families have a variety of schooling options available across six Tampa Bay area counties, encompassing both public and private institutions. The counties with their respective school districts include Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, Manatee, and Polk. Upon receipt of your orders, reach out to the School Liaison Program Manager at 813-828-0146 for guidance and further details.

    Written by Veteran.com Team