Hanscom AFB
Hanscom AFB is a major acquisition and research hub, home to the Air Force Research Laboratory and numerous program offices that develop cutting-edge electronics, communications, and battle management systems. Located 17 miles northwest of Boston, the base provides access to one of the nation's premier metro areas with world-class universities, hospitals, restaurants, and culture. Housing costs near Boston are among the highest in the country, but BAH rates are correspondingly generous.
Neighborhoods Near Hanscom AFB
Popular communities where military families stationed at Hanscom AFB choose to live.
Bedford
5–10 min to main gateThe host community for Hanscom with charming New England neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a highly educated professional population.
Lexington
10–15 min to main gateA prestigious Boston suburb bordering Hanscom with nationally top-ranked schools, historic Revolutionary War sites, and beautiful homes — and very high prices.
Billerica
15–20 min to main gateA more affordable alternative north of Bedford with solid schools, newer construction options, and easy 128/I-95 freeway access.
Schools & Education
Bedford Public Schools
Bedford Public Schools is a small, high-performing district with an excellent reputation. Lexington Public Schools is even more prestigious. Both routinely rank among Massachusetts's and the nation's top districts.
- Bedford High School ranks in the top tier of Massachusetts and national school rankings
- Lexington High School consistently places in the top 1% nationally for AP performance
- Area benefits from proximity to MIT, Harvard, and numerous research institutions
Things to Do Near Bedford
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Bedford area.
The site of the 'Shot Heard Round the World' in Lexington and Concord — walk the Battle Road trail through American Revolution history.
The famous pond where Thoreau wrote Walden, offering swimming, hiking, and literary pilgrimage in the heart of Concord.
A stunning freshwater marsh along the Concord River with exceptional birding and a scenic canoe route near Concord.
America's oldest operating inn in Sudbury (1716) offering colonial-era dining in a landmark setting — a unique New England dining experience.
One of the Boston area's largest regional malls with major department stores, specialty retailers, and restaurants just 10 minutes from Hanscom.
World-class museums, the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, Bruins, fine dining, and cultural attractions all accessible within 30–45 minutes of Hanscom.
Housing & Cost of Living
Greater Boston is one of the nation's most expensive housing markets. BAH is high to reflect costs but often doesn't fully cover premium neighborhoods like Lexington. Billerica and surrounding towns offer more value.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Hanscom 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.