Pentagon
The Pentagon is the headquarters of the US Department of Defense and houses the offices of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the service secretaries, making it the nerve center of American military power. Located in Arlington, Virginia, directly across the Potomac River from Washington D.C., assignments to the Pentagon represent some of the most career-defining opportunities in any branch of service. The National Capital Region's extraordinary cost of living is a challenge, but access to the seat of military and political power is unmatched.
Neighborhoods Near Pentagon
Popular communities where military families stationed at Pentagon choose to live.
Pentagon City / Crystal City
5 min to PentagonHigh-density urban neighborhoods directly adjacent to the Pentagon with luxury apartments, Metro access, and walkable amenities.
Alexandria Old Town
10–15 min to PentagonHistoric waterfront city with cobblestone streets, Federal architecture, and excellent restaurants — one of the most desirable communities in the DC area.
McLean / Tysons (Fairfax County)
15–25 min to PentagonUpscale Northern Virginia suburbs west of the Pentagon with excellent schools, high-end amenities, and many senior government and military officials.
Schools & Education
Arlington Public Schools / Alexandria City Public Schools
Both Arlington and Alexandria run highly rated urban school systems with strong diversity and academic programs, familiar to DoD families.
- Arlington's three high schools consistently rank among Virginia's best
- Alexandria's T.C. Williams (now Alexandria City High School) has a renowned performing arts program
- Both districts have active military family liaison programs given the Pentagon's enormous workforce
Things to Do Near Arlington
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Arlington area.
America's front yard — Smithsonian museums, the Lincoln Memorial, WWII Memorial, and more, all free and within Metro reach of the Pentagon.
Old Town Alexandria's main street with dozens of acclaimed restaurants, wine bars, and locally-owned shops steps from the Potomac.
America's premiere performing arts venue across the river in DC — military discounts available and world-class performances year-round.
18-mile paved trail along the Potomac from the Pentagon to Mount Vernon — one of the DC area's most popular running and cycling routes.
Upscale mall directly above the Pentagon City Metro station — the most convenient shopping destination for Pentagon workers.
Washington's iconic cherry blossom display around the Tidal Basin peaks in late March — a spectacular annual highlight for families stationed nearby.
Housing & Cost of Living
Pentagon assignments are in the most expensive housing market in the country. BAH is at the maximum rate but purchasing is extremely difficult. Most junior officers rent; senior officials and flag officers typically receive quarters on post at Fort Myer.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Pentagon
- 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.