Finding suitable housing when moving to a new location can be challenging, especially when the move involves a military duty station like Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.
However, the process can be significantly simplified with the right resources, such as the ones you’ll find within this guide. We will discuss the best North Carolina real estate options for moving to Camp Lejeune.
An Overview of Camp Lejeune
Camp Lejeune is a major Marine Corps base located in North Carolina. The base is home to the 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, and other active-duty service members. When looking for housing in this area, it’s crucial to consider factors such as proximity to the base, amenities, and affordability. With options ranging from on-base housing to rental properties in nearby cities like Jacksonville, NC, or Bear Creek, there’s a housing solution to meet every family’s needs and preferences.
On-Base Housing
Living on base can offer a multitude of benefits for military families. It is often more convenient, with easy access to base facilities and services, and fosters a strong sense of community among the military personnel and their families.
Camp Lejeune housing is managed by Atlantic Marine Corps Communities and Lincoln Military Housing, offering a variety of housing units including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments.
These housing options are within comfortable walking distance of amenities like fitness centers, bowling alleys, hobby shops, and even a movie theater. Depending on the family’s size and rank, you can choose from the available 11, 19, 26, 32 four-bedroom housing units, or the 51 three-bedroom housing units.
You must be an active service member to be eligible for on-base housing. The Camp Lejeune Military Housing Office handles the assignment to housing, and advance applications can be submitted as soon as orders to the base are received.
Off-Base Rental Properties
Renting off-base is another viable option, offering various locations and property types. Cities and neighborhoods surrounding Camp Lejeune, such as Sneads Ferry, Midway Park, and Onslow Beach, are popular areas for off-base rentals. Military and civilian families can find various apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes for sale or rent.
Working with an experienced real estate agent familiar with the local market can be invaluable when looking for off-base rentals. They can assist you in finding properties within your budget that meet your specific needs. Moreover, they can help you consider important factors such as commute time to the base, neighborhood safety, rental prices, and proximity to public and private schools and amenities.
Buying a Home
Purchasing a home is a significant step, offering the advantage of building equity and long-term stability. In areas surrounding Camp Lejeune, a wide variety of real estate options are available, including newly constructed homes and existing houses in established neighborhoods like:
- Sneads Ferry
- Topsail Beach
- Emerald Isle
Home ownership can offer more freedom and customization than rental properties. It’s crucial, however, to work with a qualified real estate agent to navigate the home-buying process, especially in competitive markets. They can help you understand the local market trends, negotiate the best price, and ensure a smooth transaction.
Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI)
The Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI) is a program launched by the Department of Defense to provide modern housing options and improved maintenance services for military personnel. Atlantic Marine Corps Communities and Lincoln Military Housing manage the MHPI housing for Camp Lejeune.
These privatized housing communities offer modern, well-maintained housing units with amenities like fitness centers, splash pads, and dryer hookups. To be eligible for MHPI housing, service members need to meet certain criteria, including being on active duty. Applications can be submitted through the Military Housing Office or directly with the privatized housing companies.
Temporary Lodging Options
During the transition to Camp Lejeune, temporary lodging can provide a comfortable place to stay. On-base temporary lodging facilities, including hotels and guest houses, offer convenient, fully furnished options.
Off-base alternatives include extended hotel stays and short-term rental properties. It’s important to plan and make early reservations as these accommodations can fill up quickly in the base area.
Key Takeaways
Whether you’re planning to live on base, rent an apartment off-base, purchase a home, or stay in temporary lodging, there are several options when moving to Camp Lejeune.
The best choice will depend on your personal preferences, family size, and financial situation. Remember to leverage resources like the base’s Military Housing Office, local real estate agents, and online platforms to explore your options.
To start your housing search, visit eXp Realty for the latest property listings in and around Camp Lejeune. For personalized assistance, contact a knowledgeable eXp real estate agent. They can assist you in navigating the local housing market and guide you through your home buying or renting journey.
FAQs: Camp Lejeune Housing
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about family housing at the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base in North Carolina:
Does Camp Lejeune have housing?
Yes, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina offers both on-base and off-base housing options for military personnel and their families.
How much is BAH in Camp Lejeune?
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates vary depending on rank, years of service, and dependent status. Check the Department of Defense BAH Calculator for updated rates.
Can I stay on base at Camp Lejeune?
Active service members and their families can stay on base at Camp Lejeune. There are also temporary lodging facilities available for personnel during transitions.
Who lives at Camp Lejeune?
Camp Lejeune has a broad military community. It is home to active duty service members, their families, and some Department of Defense civilian employees. There’s also a veteran community here.
Can your spouse live with you on base?
Yes, spouses are permitted to live on base with active service members. Base housing options include single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments.
What are Camp Lejeune benefits?
Benefits of living on Camp Lejeune include proximity to work, no commute, a sense of community, access to base amenities, and the security of living on a military installation.
How many houses are on Camp Lejeune?
There are thousands of housing units on Camp Lejeune, including condos, townhouses, and single-family homes.
What is the difference between Camp Lejeune and Parris Island?
Camp Lejeune is a Marine Corps Base in North Carolina, while Parris Island is a Marine Corps Recruit Depot in South Carolina primarily used for basic training.
Do civilians live on Camp Lejeune?
Some Department of Defense civilian employees and contractors may live on base, depending on availability and base regulations.
