McConnell AFB
McConnell AFB is home to the 22nd Air Refueling Wing operating KC-46A Pegasus tankers and KC-135R Stratotankers, and serves as the primary KC-46 formal training unit. Located on the south side of Wichita, Kansas's largest city, the base provides access to a major aviation hub that is also home to Boeing, Spirit AeroSystems, Cessna, and Learjet. Wichita offers affordable housing, great steakhouses, and a flat Kansas landscape that stretches to the horizon.
Neighborhoods Near McConnell AFB
Popular communities where military families stationed at McConnell AFB choose to live.
Derby
5–10 min to main gateA fast-growing Sedgwick County suburb directly south of McConnell with very high military family concentration, new construction, and excellent schools.
Wichita (South)
10–15 min to main gateSouth Wichita neighborhoods near the base offer affordable established housing with easy access to both the flight line and city amenities.
Andover
20–30 min to main gateAn upscale east Wichita suburb with top-rated schools, new construction, and a higher price point — popular with officer families.
Schools & Education
USD 260 Derby School District
Derby USD 260 is one of Kansas's top school districts and the primary choice for McConnell families. Derby High School has been nationally recognized. Andover USD 385 is also excellent.
- Derby High School ranks among Kansas's top large public schools and is home to a nationally competitive debate program
- Andover High School consistently leads Kansas in ACT scores
- Both districts offer strong fine arts and STEM programs
Things to Do Near Wichita
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Wichita area.
Wichita's premier science and technology museum with aviation exhibits, IMAX, hands-on science galleries, and a wing dedicated to Kansas aviation history.
An iconic 44-ft steel sculpture at the confluence of the Little Arkansas and Arkansas rivers — the symbol of Wichita with a dramatic fire ritual at dusk.
Wichita's entertainment district in a renovated warehouse area with independent restaurants, craft breweries, live music, and unique retail.
One of the top zoos in the central US with over 3,000 animals and a well-regarded elephant and North American Prairielands habitat.
A world-class regional art museum with a significant collection of American art including works by Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper, and Winslow Homer.
Kansas's most visited state park 30 miles east of Wichita with a large reservoir, camping, fishing, and 10 miles of off-road vehicle trails.
Housing & Cost of Living
Wichita is one of the most affordable major metros in the southern Plains. Derby and Andover command premiums for schools. Strong BAH-to-cost ratio for most ranks. New construction is abundant.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for McConnell 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.