Grand Forks AFB
Grand Forks AFB is home to the 319th Air Base Wing and hosts RQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned aircraft operations along with a growing portfolio of remotely piloted aircraft missions. The base is located 16 miles west of Grand Forks, a university city on the Minnesota border that offers a surprisingly robust arts, dining, and sports scene. North Dakota's extreme winters are a challenge, but the state has no income tax and housing costs are among the lowest of any Air Force assignment.
Neighborhoods Near Grand Forks AFB
Popular communities where military families stationed at Grand Forks AFB choose to live.
Grand Forks (South End)
10–15 min to main gateThe primary residential area closest to the base with established neighborhoods, easy access, and a strong military family presence.
Grand Forks (University area)
15–20 min to main gateNeighborhoods surrounding the University of North Dakota with a college-town energy, walkable streets, and the best restaurant and bar scene in the region.
East Grand Forks, MN
20–25 min to main gateJust across the Red River in Minnesota, East Grand Forks offers another housing market with Minnesota school district access and slightly different tax implications.
Schools & Education
Grand Forks Public Schools
GFPS serves the city and base area. The district has invested heavily in modernizing facilities. UND's presence means the city has strong educational culture overall.
- Red River High School and Central High School are the main secondary schools
- UND offers one of the nation's top aerospace programs, creating a STEM-positive culture
- District participates in advanced learning networks and gifted education programs
Things to Do Near Grand Forks
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Grand Forks area.
UND Fighting Hawks hockey is a massive community event at the Ralph Engelstad Arena — tickets are coveted and the atmosphere is electric.
Over 60 miles of paved trails along the Red River and through Grand Forks' park system — exceptional for cycling and running.
Grand Forks' beloved craft pizza and brewery concept with creative pies and house-brewed ales in a welcoming downtown taproom.
A large arena and convention center hosting UND football, concerts, trade shows, and major community events.
A nationally recognized contemporary art museum on the UND campus with rotating exhibitions of significant regional and international work.
A forested state park along the Turtle River west of Grand Forks with camping, picnicking, and cross-country skiing trails.
Housing & Cost of Living
Grand Forks is one of the most affordable markets in the upper Midwest. Limited economic diversity keeps prices low. BAH covers costs well and purchasing is very accessible for most ranks.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Grand Forks 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.