Laughlin AFB
Laughlin AFB is a primary pilot training base home to the 47th Flying Training Wing, producing undergraduate pilots flying the T-6A Texan II and T-38C Talon. Del Rio is a small border city on the Rio Grande adjacent to Ciudad Acuña, Mexico, offering an authentic Texas border culture with very affordable housing. Amistad National Recreation Area's massive reservoir provides exceptional fishing, boating, and water recreation right outside the base.
Neighborhoods Near Laughlin AFB
Popular communities where military families stationed at Laughlin AFB choose to live.
Del Rio (Las Vacas area)
5–10 min to main gateResidential neighborhoods near the base with the highest military family concentration. Del Rio is a small, tight-knit border community.
Del Rio (San Felipe area)
10–15 min to main gateEstablished neighborhoods in central Del Rio with larger homes, proximity to downtown, and the best local dining options in the city.
Amistad Area
15–25 min to main gateLakeside homes and rural properties near Lake Amistad offering outdoor-focused living with stunning reservoir views and very affordable prices.
Schools & Education
San Felipe Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District
SFDR CISD serves Del Rio with one high school, Del Rio High School. The district is small and community-oriented. Amenities are limited but the military community is well-integrated.
- Del Rio High School offers dual enrollment with Southwest Texas Junior College
- Strong Spanish bilingual programs reflecting the community's border culture
- Active JROTC program with strong community support
Things to Do Near Del Rio
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Del Rio area.
A massive international reservoir on the Rio Grande shared with Mexico, with world-class bass fishing, scuba diving, and prehistoric rock art sites.
The legendary 'Law West of the Pecos' site in Langtry with Judge Roy Bean's authentic Jersey Lilly Saloon and a cactus garden.
One of North America's best prehistoric rock art sites with ranger-led tours to Fate Bell Shelter and stunning canyon views.
A Del Rio Tex-Mex institution beloved by both military families and locals for its enchiladas, fajitas, and friendly border-town atmosphere.
A historic frontier fort turned private residential community with a spring-fed pool, golf course, and old stone buildings 30 miles east.
The sister city across the International Bridge offering authentic Coahuila cuisine, markets, and restaurants — a unique border experience just minutes away.
Housing & Cost of Living
Del Rio is one of the most affordable military markets in the country. The remote location keeps prices very low. BAH covers costs easily and purchasing is highly accessible. Very limited new construction.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Laughlin 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.