Buckley SFB
Buckley Space Force Base is home to the 460th Space Wing and hosts satellite command and control operations, missile warning, and space domain awareness missions, along with multiple intelligence community tenants. Located in Aurora on the eastern edge of the Denver metro, the base provides excellent access to Colorado's capital city with its thriving craft brewery scene, professional sports, and world-class dining, plus Rocky Mountain ski resorts within 90 minutes. Denver's economy is booming with a growing tech sector, making it an excellent location for military spouses.
Neighborhoods Near Buckley SFB
Popular communities where military families stationed at Buckley SFB choose to live.
Aurora (Sable Ridge / Tallyn's Reach)
10–15 min to main gateBuckley SFB sits within the city of Aurora, and newer subdivisions in the Tallyn's Reach and Sable Ridge areas offer modern homes, good Cherry Creek Schools access, and convenient access to E-470 and I-225.
Parker
20–30 min to main gate via E-470A highly rated south Denver suburb with excellent Douglas County schools, a charming historic Main Street, and newer master-planned communities. Parker's family-friendly reputation makes it a top choice for military families.
Centennial (Foxridge)
20–25 min to main gate via I-225An established Arapahoe County suburb south of Denver with top-rated Littleton Public Schools, large lots, and mature trees. Proximity to Cherry Creek State Park and the Tech Center corridor.
Schools & Education
Cherry Creek School District / Aurora Public Schools
The Cherry Creek School District—which serves much of Aurora south of Colfax—is one of the most acclaimed in Colorado and draws families from across the metro. Aurora Public Schools serves the northern and central portions of Aurora and has improving scores with strong English-language learner support.
- Cherry Creek High School is among Colorado's most academically competitive public schools with a large AP and IB program
- Grandview High School in Aurora (Cherry Creek SD) is consistently ranked in the top tier of Colorado high schools
- Aurora's STEM School (Liberty Middle and High School) offers a rigorous project-based curriculum
Things to Do Near Aurora
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Aurora area.
A 4,000-acre reservoir and park just south of the base, offering sailing, motorboating, windsurfing, fishing, swimming beaches, and over 12 miles of trails—one of the most-used state parks in Colorado.
The massive Gaylord Rockies Resort near DIA offers an indoor waterpark (RELÂCHE), restaurants, and events that serve as a local entertainment hub for the northeast Denver metro.
A beloved Aurora institution serving authentic Mexican cuisine—green chile, enchiladas, breakfast burritos—popular with the military community and local families for decades.
One of the largest natural history museums in the nation, with IMAX, planetarium, gems and minerals, Egyptian mummies, Space Odyssey exhibit, and rotating blockbuster shows.
A large outlet mall east of Denver offering major brands at discount prices, with easy access from Buckley via I-70 or E-470.
The world's premier outdoor concert venue west of Denver, where massive sandstone formations create a naturally perfect acoustical setting for major touring acts and the iconic morning yoga sessions.
Housing & Cost of Living
Aurora offers the most affordable entry into the Denver metro for military families. The southeast Aurora communities nearest the Cherry Creek School District command a premium. Douglas County (Parker, Centennial) prices are higher but offer top-tier schools. Colorado's market has cooled from its 2021–2022 peak but remains active.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Buckley SFB
- Contact the installation housing office early — wait lists can be long.
- Check BAH rates at the official DoD BAH calculator before setting your home budget.
- Get VA pre-approved before your PCS orders — it helps you move fast in competitive markets.
- Military-friendly real estate markets near bases can move quickly — be ready to act.