Peterson SFB
Peterson Space Force Base is the headquarters of Space Command (USSPACECOM) and North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), making it one of the most strategically critical military headquarters in the world. Located on the eastern edge of Colorado Springs, the base provides access to one of the most military-dense metros in the country with outstanding quality of life, proximity to the Rockies, and a booming defense tech sector. Pikes Peak towers over the city at 14,115 feet, and world-class skiing at Breckenridge and Vail is within two hours.
Neighborhoods Near Peterson SFB
Popular communities where military families stationed at Peterson SFB choose to live.
Briargate (Colorado Springs NE)
15–20 min to main gateColorado Springs' premier northeast development corridor, Briargate offers newer master-planned communities, the Academy School District 20 (one of Colorado's best), and convenient access to Peterson via Powers Blvd.
Falcon / Peyton (El Paso County)
15–25 min to main gateFast-growing unincorporated communities east of Colorado Springs offering newer larger homes at lower prices than in-city neighborhoods, with views of Pikes Peak and Falcon School District 49 schools.
Stetson Hills / Meridian Ranch
10–15 min to main gateNewer master-planned communities in the northeast springs area with modern homes, community pools, parks, and excellent D20 schools. One of the fastest-growing areas in the Colorado Springs metro.
Schools & Education
Academy School District 20 / District 49 (Falcon)
Academy District 20 serves northern Colorado Springs and is consistently Colorado's top-performing large school district, with exceptional AP enrollment, a gifted/talented program, and supportive community. District 49 serves the Falcon/Peyton area with newer schools and improving academic scores.
- Pine Creek High School in D20 is consistently ranked among Colorado's top 5 public high schools
- D20's Liberty High School and Rampart High School offer extensive AP and dual-enrollment options
- D49's Falcon High School has a strong JROTC program and serves a large military family population
Things to Do Near Colorado Springs
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Colorado Springs area.
A free National Natural Landmark featuring dramatic 300-foot red sandstone formations, 21 miles of trails, rock climbing, and iconic views of Pikes Peak—15 minutes from Peterson and one of Colorado's most spectacular sites.
The inspiration for 'America the Beautiful,' Pikes Peak reaches 14,115 feet and is accessible by the Cog Railway, auto road, or a challenging 26-mile round-trip trail. Summit views on a clear day extend from Denver to New Mexico.
A Colorado Springs institution serving authentic Ethiopian cuisine—injera, tibs, misir wot—popular with the military and civilian community seeking something beyond the standard Colorado Springs dining scene.
America's only mountain zoo, perched at 6,800 feet on the slopes of Cheyenne Mountain, featuring giraffe feedings, Rocky Mountain elk, and outstanding views of the city and plains below.
Colorado Springs' primary enclosed mall in the north end of the city, with major retailers, a Dillard's anchor, multiple dining options, and convenient location near Peterson.
Colorado Springs' premier entertainment venue hosting major concerts, AHL Colorado Eagles hockey, and family events throughout the year.
Housing & Cost of Living
Colorado Springs is significantly more affordable than Denver and the Front Range metro but has seen rapid appreciation since 2020. The northeast corridor near Peterson and Schriever has the most new construction. Academy D20 neighborhoods command a premium. Peterson and Schriever personnel often share neighborhoods given both base's east-side locations.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Peterson SFB
- 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.