Edwards AFB
Edwards AFB is the Air Force's premier flight test center, home to the Air Force Test Center where virtually every aircraft in the US inventory has been tested, and where Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier. Located on the Mojave Desert's Rogers Dry Lake, the base offers the longest natural runway in the world and clear skies nearly year-round. Los Angeles is about 100 miles south, providing access to world-class entertainment, beaches, and culture.
Neighborhoods Near Edwards AFB
Popular communities where military families stationed at Edwards AFB choose to live.
Rosamond
10–15 min to main gateThe closest off-base community to Edwards, Rosamond is an unincorporated Kern County community with very affordable homes and a strong military presence.
Lancaster
25–30 min to main gateA larger Antelope Valley city with more retail, restaurants, and schools. The majority of Edwards families who live off-base choose Lancaster.
Palmdale
35–40 min to main gateThe largest Antelope Valley city with strong aerospace industry employment, major retail, and newer subdivisions. A longer commute but more amenities.
Schools & Education
Antelope Valley Union High School District
Elementary schools in the Antelope Valley fall under multiple districts. The overall quality is mixed; many families with academic priorities seek out charter schools or accept the tradeoff for the unique Edwards experience.
- Eastside Union School District (Lancaster area) has several well-rated elementary schools
- STEM-focused charter options are available in Lancaster and Palmdale
- The Antelope Valley College dual enrollment program benefits high school students
Things to Do Near Edwards
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Edwards area.
On-base museum chronicling the storied history of flight testing at Edwards, including Yeager's sound barrier aircraft and early space program capsules.
During peak bloom (March–April), the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve explodes in orange — one of California's most spectacular wildflower displays.
Iconic tilted sandstone formations used in countless films and TV shows, with hiking trails and climbing in the hills south of Palmdale.
A popular upscale-casual restaurant in Lancaster serving creative American cuisine in a stylish setting on the Lancaster BLVD arts corridor.
A professional-grade venue hosting Broadway touring shows, concerts, and community theater events in the Antelope Valley.
A civilian spaceport and aviation hub in nearby Mojave where experimental aircraft, Virgin Galactic, and aerospace startups test vehicles.
Housing & Cost of Living
The Antelope Valley is one of the more affordable parts of greater LA, though prices rose sharply during the pandemic. On-base housing has long wait lists. Lancaster and Palmdale offer the best value.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Edwards AFB
- 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.