Redstone Arsenal
Redstone Arsenal is the home of the Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM) and hosts NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, making it the nation's center for missile and rocket development. Located in Huntsville, Alabama — the Rocket City — the base is part of one of the fastest-growing tech metros in the Southeast with a booming aerospace and defense industry. Alabama's low cost of living, no tax on military retirement pay, and Huntsville's rapidly improving dining and entertainment scene make Redstone a very popular assignment.
Neighborhoods Near Redstone Arsenal
Popular communities where military families stationed at Redstone Arsenal choose to live.
Madison (Southeast Madison)
5–10 min to main gateUpscale suburban community in Madison County adjacent to Redstone Arsenal, popular with the large defense contractor and government scientist workforce.
Huntsville (Southeast / Whitesburg area)
10–20 min to main gateEstablished Huntsville neighborhoods south of downtown near the Tennessee River with good schools and convenient access to both the arsenal and Research Park.
Hampton Cove
20–30 min to main gatePlanned golf community on the eastern edge of Huntsville with newer homes, a Robert Trent Jones golf course, and mountain views.
Schools & Education
Madison City Schools / Huntsville City Schools
Madison City Schools is consistently rated as one of Alabama's very best districts, while Huntsville City Schools has significant variation by neighborhood.
- Bob Jones High School (Madison) and James Clemens High School are top-rated Alabama schools
- Grissom High School (Huntsville) is known for STEM programs and NASA tie-ins
- Madison County's school system benefits from the highly educated aerospace workforce
Things to Do Near Huntsville
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Huntsville area.
America's largest space museum, home to the original Saturn V moon rocket — an extraordinary attraction for any family stationed at NASA's partner installation.
Beautiful mountain park overlooking Huntsville with hiking, biking, stargazing, and a Japanese Garden — a beloved local escape.
Vibrant food and craft beer complex in a converted school campus in southeast Huntsville with multiple restaurants and a popular taproom.
Stunning 112-acre garden with seasonal exhibits, butterfly house, and Huntsville's famous Galaxy of Lights Christmas display.
Upscale outdoor lifestyle mall with national retailers, dining, and entertainment — Huntsville's most popular shopping destination.
Downtown Huntsville's beautiful park centered on a natural spring-fed lake — a scenic spot for families and events.
Housing & Cost of Living
Huntsville has boomed due to NASA, defense, and tech sector growth. Madison City has the most competitive housing market. Prices have risen substantially but remain affordable compared to coastal markets.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Redstone Arsenal
- 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.