PCSing to Eglin AFB: Why Shalimar, FL Should Be Your Next Home (2025 Guide)
Look for your new Shalimar Home
Hey fellow military family! Just got orders to Eglin AFB? I was in your shoes last year. Here's what I learned about living in Shalimar, FL - just 3 minutes from the East Gate!
Why We Chose Shalimar
Military-Friendly Benefits
3-minute drive to Eglin East Gate
BAH covers most housing costs
Great schools for the kids
Strong military community
Quick base access without traffic
Housing Costs vs. BAH (2025)
What You Can Get
3bed/2bath: $450,000-600,000
4bed/2.5bath: $550,000-750,000
BAH covers most mortgages
Property taxes reasonable
Insurance higher (plan for it!)
School Information
Highly Rated Schools
Shalimar Elementary (A-rated)
Meigs Middle School (A-rated)
Choctawhatchee High School
Several private options
Easy school registration
Daily Life Stuff
Shopping & Services
Commissary: 10 minutes
BX: 10 minutes
Walmart: 5 minutes
Target: 15 minutes
Restaurants everywhere
Beach: 15 minutes!
Military Community
What We Love
Lots of military neighbors
Understanding landlords
Easy PCS clause options
Military discounts everywhere
Support during deployments
Neighborhoods to Check
Popular Areas
Poquito Bayou (military favorite)
Meigs Landing (newer homes)
Shalimar Pointe (golf course)
Garnier's Bayou (waterfront)
House Hunting Tips
What to Look For
Hurricane protection
Flood zone rating
Good internet (for telework)
Fenced yards (if pets)
Storage space
Garage (hurricanes!)
Base Access Points
East Gate: 3 minutes
West Gate: 10 minutes
Duke Field: 25 minutes
Hurlburt Field: 20 minutes
Before You Move
Must-Do List
Check flood zones
Get insurance quotes
Join Shalimar FB groups
Contact school liaison
Research commute times
Schedule housing tours
Local Tips from Military Families
Get insurance quotes EARLY
Look at hurricane history
Check noise zones
Join spouse groups
Find a military-friendly realtor
Schedule virtual tours
Fun Stuff Nearby
Beautiful beaches
Great fishing
Golf courses
Parks everywhere
Water sports
Shopping centers
Questions to Ask
Flood insurance costs?
Hurricane preparation?
School bus routes?
Gate traffic patterns?
Internet providers?
Pro Tip: Start looking 3-4 months before PCS if possible. Houses move fast here!Remember: Shalimar is super military-friendly, and we all help each other out. Welcome to the community!
#EglinAFB #MilitaryMove #PCS2025 #ShalrimarFL #MilitaryHousing #MilitaryFamily #EglinHousing
