Scott AFB
Scott AFB is the headquarters of Air Mobility Command and US Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), making it the nerve center for global military logistics and airlift operations. Located 17 miles east of St. Louis in the Metro East Illinois region, the base provides access to a major metropolitan area with Cardinals and Blues games, the Gateway Arch, world-class museums, and excellent restaurants. Illinois's high state income tax is a downside, but BAH is competitive and the St. Louis metro offers tremendous value for families.
Neighborhoods Near Scott AFB
Popular communities where military families stationed at Scott AFB choose to live.
O'Fallon
10–15 min to baseA fast-growing St. Louis suburb consistently ranked among the best places to live in Illinois. Excellent schools, abundant retail, and a family-oriented community with parks and rec programs.
Shiloh
5–10 min to baseA quiet residential community directly adjacent to Scott AFB with tree-lined streets and convenient base access. Very popular with military families for its proximity and affordability.
Belleville
10–15 min to baseThe St. Clair County seat with a charming historic downtown, diverse dining, and a mix of older homes and new development. Offers a small-city feel with easy access to St. Louis.
Schools & Education
O'Fallon Township High School District 203 / Belleville District 118
The metro-east area offers several strong school districts. O'Fallon schools are particularly well-regarded and draw many military families. Belleville also has solid public and parochial school options.
- O'Fallon Township High School is one of the largest and highest-performing in the region
- Shiloh Village schools have small class sizes and strong military family support
- Multiple parochial and private school options throughout the metro-east
Things to Do Near Belleville
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the Belleville area.
Just 20 minutes across the river in downtown St. Louis, the iconic 630-foot Gateway Arch offers tram rides to the top and a museum of westward expansion.
A beloved family farm in Belleville offering pick-your-own fruits, a country store, and seasonal festivals — a metro-east tradition since 1910.
One of the nation's top zoos with free admission, located in Forest Park. Features over 16,000 animals and world-class exhibits.
A popular O'Fallon craft beer bar with rotating taps and hearty pub fare, a favorite gathering spot for Scott AFB personnel.
Home of the St. Louis Cardinals, just across the river. Military appreciation nights and affordable bleacher seats make it a regular outing for base families.
Housing & Cost of Living
The metro-east Illinois market is significantly more affordable than the Missouri side of St. Louis. O'Fallon commands a premium for schools while Belleville and Shiloh offer strong value. BAH stretches well here.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Scott 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.