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Installation Guide

U.S. Air Force Academy

Air Force Colorado Springs, Colorado

Off-Base Living

Top neighborhoods near U.S. Air Force Academy

Briargate

A large master-planned community in north Colorado Springs with excellent schools, parks, and retail. Popular with Academy families who want suburban convenience.

15–20 min to North Gate

Family-friendlySuburbanNew construction

Monument

A small-town community just north of the Academy with a historic downtown, trails, and a tight-knit feel. Quieter and more rural than Colorado Springs proper.

10–15 min to North Gate

Family-friendlyRuralRetiree-friendly

Flying Horse

An upscale planned community with a Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course, luxury homes, and mountain views. A top choice for senior officers.

20–25 min to North Gate

SuburbanGolf communityGated community
Schools

Academy School District 20

D-20 is consistently ranked among Colorado's top school districts, serving north Colorado Springs and Monument. Families near the Academy benefit from high-performing neighborhood schools and strong extracurricular programs.

What families should know

  • Pine Creek High School and Liberty High School are top-rated secondary schools
  • District-wide gifted and talented programs and robust STEM offerings
  • High graduation rates and strong college placement statistics
Things to Do

Life around U.S. Air Force Academy

Outdoors

Garden of the Gods Park

Iconic red-rock formations with free hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning views of Pikes Peak. A must-see natural landmark minutes from the base.

Outdoors

Pikes Peak Summit

Drive or take the cog railway to the 14,115-ft summit for panoramic views of the Front Range. A bucket-list experience for every family stationed here.

Attraction

The Broadmoor

A historic five-star resort offering fine dining, spa services, and the famous Seven Falls attraction nearby. Great for special occasions.

Dining

Edelweiss Restaurant

A beloved German restaurant in Colorado Springs serving schnitzel, spaetzle, and imported beers in an authentic Bavarian setting since 1975.

Outdoors

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

Over 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails with wildlife viewing and overnight camping near the foot of Cheyenne Mountain.

Entertainment

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

A combined art museum and performing arts theater on the Colorado College campus hosting Broadway touring shows, concerts, and rotating galleries.

Housing Market

Buying or renting near U.S. Air Force Academy

Home Prices

$380,000–$580,000

Typical Rent

$1,700–$2,400/mo

Colorado Springs has seen significant appreciation since 2020. North-side neighborhoods near D-20 schools command a premium. The market remains competitive but more affordable than Denver.

Popular neighborhoods: Briargate, Monument, Flying Horse

Buying near U.S. Air Force Academy with a VA loan: $0 down and no PMI. Estimate your allowance with the BAH calculator, follow the PCS checklist, and read the full VA Loan Guide before you go under contract.

Orders to U.S. Air Force Academy?

Get pre-approved before you arrive. A VA loan specialist can have your numbers ready this week.

Call (719) 259-2246