Joint Base Andrews
Joint Base Andrews is home to the 89th Airlift Wing, which operates Air Force One and the VC-25A aircraft that transport the President and senior US government officials around the world. Located 10 miles southeast of Washington D.C. in Prince George's County, Maryland, the base provides access to the full National Capital Region with its unique combination of political power, cultural institutions, and diverse communities. The base is one of the most prestigious addresses in the Air Force given its proximity to national leadership.
Neighborhoods Near Joint Base Andrews
Popular communities where military families stationed at Joint Base Andrews choose to live.
Clinton, MD
10–15 min to main gateThe closest major residential community to Andrews' main gate, Clinton offers affordable single-family homes, a large military population, and easy access to both Andrews and JBAB via Suitland Parkway.
Upper Marlboro
20–30 min to main gateThe Prince George's County seat offers larger lots, newer construction in areas like Marlton, and a quieter rural character while remaining within commuting distance of Andrews. Good school options in the county.
Waldorf, MD
25–35 min to main gateA large suburban community in Charles County about 20 miles south of Andrews offering excellent value, strong schools, newer retail development, and a large military community from Andrews, Patuxent River NAS, and Indian Head.
Schools & Education
Prince George's County Public Schools / Charles County Public Schools
Prince George's County Public Schools is a large, diverse district with strong magnet programs for motivated students. Charles County Public Schools serves Waldorf families and has a solid reputation, particularly at the middle and high school level.
- Eleanor Roosevelt High School's Science and Technology Program is nationally ranked
- Charles County's Thomas Stone and La Plata High Schools have competitive academic programs
- The county operates a robust JROTC network across multiple high schools serving military families
Things to Do Near Camp Springs
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Camp Springs area.
Maryland's largest theme park in Upper Marlboro offers roller coasters, water park access, and seasonal events including Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park, just 15 minutes from base.
A premium waterfront shopping and entertainment destination on the Potomac featuring the MGM Grand, dozens of restaurants, the iconic Capital Wheel observation wheel, and The Gaylord National Resort.
The premier steakhouse at the Gaylord National Resort serving USDA prime cuts with floor-to-ceiling views of the Potomac River atrium—a popular special-occasion spot for military families.
A 700-acre Prince George's County park in Clinton with a lake for fishing, boating and fishing piers, nature center, campground, and miles of hiking trails.
While a day trip to Dayton, OH, the free Air Force Museum near Wright-Patterson is worth noting for Andrews families—the world's largest air and space museum with 350+ aircraft across four hangars.
A large outdoor lifestyle shopping center in Glenarden with Wegmans, Costco, Target, and dozens of dining options serving the Prince George's County military community.
Housing & Cost of Living
Prince George's County is significantly more affordable than comparable DC or Northern Virginia communities. The military presence in Clinton and the county keeps demand steady. Waldorf in Charles County offers even better value and newer construction. BAH for the DC/Andrews area is generous.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Joint Base Andrews
- 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.