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Installation Guide

Naval Station Great Lakes

Navy Great Lakes, Illinois

Off-Base Living

Top neighborhoods near Naval Station Great Lakes

Gurnee

Popular suburban option with shopping and commuter convenience.

15–25 min to Naval Station Great Lakes

SuburbanFamily-friendlyAmenities

Waukegan

Closest major city area with varied rental options.

10–20 min to Naval Station Great Lakes

Commute-friendlyValueUrban-suburban

Libertyville

Higher-end suburb known for schools and downtown charm.

20–30 min to Naval Station Great Lakes

SchoolsPremiumFamily-friendly
Schools

Great Lakes Regional School Districts

Most Navy families near Naval Station Great Lakes can choose among several districts or attendance zones depending on commute priorities and housing budget.

What families should know

  • Military liaison and student-transition services are common in high-mobility zones
  • Strong STEM, AP/IB, and CTE offerings in many regional high schools
  • Access to dual enrollment and nearby higher-ed partners supports college pathways
Things to Do

Life around Naval Station Great Lakes

Outdoors

Great Lakes Harbor & Waterfront

Marina districts, boardwalks, and waterfront parks are major lifestyle draws for Sailors and families stationed nearby.

Attraction

Great Lakes Naval Heritage Sites

Historic ships, museums, and memorials highlight the local maritime legacy tied to Naval Station Great Lakes.

Shopping

Great Lakes Regional Mall & Retail

Primary shopping hubs with national retailers, services, and dining corridors used for everyday household needs.

Dining

Great Lakes Local Seafood & Dining

Regional seafood and neighborhood restaurants form the core of the local dining scene around Naval Station Great Lakes.

Entertainment

Great Lakes Sports & Live Events

Minor-league sports, concerts, and seasonal festivals provide frequent off-duty entertainment options.

Outdoors

Illinois Outdoor Escapes

Weekend trips across Illinois offer beaches, lakes, trails, and campgrounds within driving distance.

Housing Market

Buying or renting near Naval Station Great Lakes

Home Prices

$300,000–$620,000

Typical Rent

$1,600–$2,900/mo

The Naval Station Great Lakes market includes both Navy-driven rental demand and civilian demand. Pricing varies by proximity to base gates, waterfront areas, and school quality.

Popular neighborhoods: Gurnee, Waukegan, Libertyville

Buying near Naval Station Great Lakes 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 Naval Station Great Lakes?

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

Call (719) 259-2246