Fort Lewis is a historic military installation located in Washington State. With a population of over 100,000, it is one of the largest military communities in the United States. Fort Lewis offers a wide range of housing options for active-duty soldiers, their families, and Department of Defense (DoD) personnel.
On-Post Housing
On-post housing at Fort Lewis is managed by the Army’s Housing Services Office (HSO). HSO offers a variety of housing options for various family sizes and ranks. On-post housing includes:
- Single-family homes: Available in a range of sizes, from two to five bedrooms.
- Duplexes and townhouses: Offer two or three bedrooms.
- Apartments: Available in one, two, and three-bedroom units.
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for on-post housing, soldiers must meet certain criteria based on their rank and family size. Applications for on-post housing can be submitted through the Housing Application and Selection Portal (HASP). Soldiers may also contact the HSO for assistance with the application process.
Off-Post Housing
Soldiers who do not qualify for on-post housing or who prefer to live off-post have a variety of options available to them. The Fort Lewis area offers a wide range of apartments, houses, and townhouses for rent or purchase.
Rental Rates
Rental rates in the Fort Lewis area vary depending on the type of property, location, and amenities. According to the Fort Lewis Housing Market Analysis, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in the area is approximately $1,500. Single-family homes typically rent for between $2,000 and $3,000 per month.
House Prices
House prices in the Fort Lewis area have increased steadily in recent years. The median home price in the area is currently around $400,000. However, prices can vary significantly depending on the size, location, and features of the home.
Housing Allowances
Soldiers who choose to live off-post are eligible for Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). BAH is a monthly allowance that helps soldiers cover the cost of off-post housing. The amount of BAH a soldier receives is based on their rank, family size, and location.
Other Housing Options
In addition to on-post and off-post housing, there are several other housing options available to Fort Lewis soldiers and families. These options include:
- Temporary Lodging Facilities (TLFs): TLFs provide short-term housing for soldiers who are newly assigned to the installation or who are awaiting permanent housing.
- Privatized Military Housing (PMH): PMH is a partnership between the Army and private developers to provide on-post housing. PMH homes are available in a variety of styles and sizes.
- Military Family Housing (MFH): MFH is a non-profit organization that provides housing for military families in the Fort Lewis area.
Tips for Finding Housing
- Start your search early, especially if you are looking for on-post housing.
- Determine your budget and consider all of your housing options.
- Contact the Housing Services Office for assistance with the application process.
- Be aware of the local rental market and average prices.
- Consider the commute time and other factors when choosing a location.
- Inspect any potential housing units carefully before signing a lease or making a purchase.
Conclusion
Fort Lewis offers a wide range of housing options for soldiers and families. Whether you choose to live on-post or off-post, there are resources available to help you find the right housing for your needs. By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a comfortable and affordable home near Fort Lewis.
- Q: What is the average cost of rent in the Fort Lewis area?
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A: The average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in the Fort Lewis area is approximately $1,500.
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Q: What is the median home price in the Fort Lewis area?
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A: The median home price in the Fort Lewis area is currently around $400,000.
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Q: How do I apply for on-post housing at Fort Lewis?
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A: Applications for on-post housing can be submitted through the Housing Application and Selection Portal (HASP).
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Q: What is the BAH for a soldier with a family of four in the Fort Lewis area?
- A: The BAH for a soldier with a family of four in the Fort Lewis area is $2,205 per month.
