Fairchild AFB
Fairchild AFB is home to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing operating KC-135R Stratotankers and hosts the Air Force's premier SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) training school. Located 12 miles west of Spokane in eastern Washington, the base offers access to a mid-sized city with excellent culture, restaurants, and the Spokane River. The surrounding Inland Northwest region provides outstanding skiing, hiking, fishing, and lakes within a short drive.
Neighborhoods Near Fairchild AFB
Popular communities where military families stationed at Fairchild AFB choose to live.
Airway Heights
5–10 min to main gateThe community directly adjacent to Fairchild's main gate with affordable housing, a growing commercial corridor, and the highest military family concentration.
Medical Lake
10–15 min to main gateA small city 5 miles south of the base with a historic downtown, therapeutic lake, and very affordable homes popular with families who want space.
Spokane Valley
25–30 min to main gateA large suburban city east of Spokane with excellent retail, strong schools, newer subdivisions, and a slightly longer commute.
Schools & Education
Cheney School District
Cheney School District serves Airway Heights and Medical Lake areas closest to Fairchild. It's a compact district with solid academics. Many families in Spokane Valley use the Central Valley or West Valley districts.
- Cheney High School offers IB and AP coursework and strong athletics
- Eastern Washington University in Cheney provides concurrent enrollment opportunities
- Central Valley School District (Spokane Valley) is one of the region's highest performers
Things to Do Near Spokane
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Spokane area.
Washington's largest state park with 50+ miles of trails along the Spokane River, off-road vehicle areas, and camping — accessible within 20 minutes.
An iconic urban park on Spokane's river falls with the SkyRide gondola, ice ribbon, IMAX theater, and the historic Looff Carrousel.
A large casino resort in Airway Heights operated by the Kalispel Tribe with top-tier live entertainment, dining, and spa facilities right next to base.
Spokane's most beloved brunch spot serving creative egg dishes and cocktails in a hip Kendall Yards setting overlooking the Spokane River.
A year-round recreation area 30 miles northeast with skiing in winter and mountain biking and hiking in summer.
A year-round indoor farmers market and food hall in the Perry District showcasing Eastern Washington produce, artisan goods, and local eateries.
Housing & Cost of Living
Spokane has attracted significant remote worker migration from Seattle, pushing prices up substantially since 2020. Airway Heights and Medical Lake remain the most affordable options. Spokane Valley is competitive.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Fairchild 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.