Rock Island Arsenal
Rock Island Arsenal is the largest government-owned weapons manufacturing arsenal in the US, located on an island in the Mississippi River between Rock Island, Illinois and Davenport, Iowa, and hosts numerous Army commands and tenant organizations. The Quad Cities metro area offers a Midwestern lifestyle with affordable housing, excellent local breweries, and riverfront parks. The arsenal's historic 19th-century stone buildings give it a unique character unlike any other military installation.
Neighborhoods Near Rock Island Arsenal
Popular communities where military families stationed at Rock Island Arsenal choose to live.
Bettendorf
10–15 min to main gateUpscale Iowa Quad City with excellent schools, riverfront parks, and newer development — the preferred address for officers and senior civilians.
Moline
5–10 min to main gateIllinois city directly across from the Arsenal island with established neighborhoods, good amenities, and easy bridge access to the installation.
Davenport (NE Davenport)
10–15 min to main gateIowa's largest Quad City with diverse neighborhoods, the University of Iowa's satellite campus, and a range of housing options.
Schools & Education
Bettendorf Community School District / Moline-Coal Valley School District
Bettendorf CSD consistently ranks as one of Iowa's top performing districts. Moline-Coal Valley serves the Illinois side with solid academic programs.
- Bettendorf High School is consistently rated among Iowa's best
- Moline High School has a strong career and technical education program
- Both districts have experience with military family enrollment from the Arsenal workforce
Things to Do Near Rock Island
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Rock Island area.
The second-oldest U.S. Army museum, housing an extraordinary collection of weapons and military artifacts in a stunning Civil War-era building.
Extensive riverfront parks and trails along the Mississippi through all four Quad Cities — excellent for cycling and family outings.
Beloved Quad Cities zoo in Coal Valley with over 500 animals and family-friendly exhibits.
Popular Moline craft brewery with house-made beers and elevated pub fare, a favorite Quad Cities gathering spot.
Major Moline mall with national retailers serving the Illinois Quad Cities community.
Historic Mississippi paddleboat offering dinner cruises and sightseeing tours from the Moline waterfront — a unique Quad Cities experience.
Housing & Cost of Living
The Quad Cities market is very affordable by national standards. Bettendorf commands the highest prices for its superior schools; Moline offers the best value for Arsenal commute. Inventory is generally healthy.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Rock Island 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.