U.S. Air Force
Ellsworth AFB — Box Elder, SD, United States
📍 Box Elder, SD, United States
Ellsworth Air Force Base near Rapid City, South Dakota, is home to the 28th Bomb Wing and its B-1B Lancer bombers, and is slated to be a main operating base for the future B-21 Raider. It anchors a strong military community at the edge of the Black Hills. Families live on base and throughout the Box Elder and Rapid City area. The cost of living is affordable and BAH generally provides strong housing options across the region. The climate is semi-arid continental with four seasons — warm summers, cold and snowy winters and plenty of sunshine. The Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, Badlands and outstanding outdoor recreation are all right at the doorstep. Employment in the area spans defense, healthcare, tourism and services, and the community supports spouse employment and remote work. Families benefit from local schools, base medical services, and child and youth programs. Whether you are PCSing to Ellsworth AFB for the first time or returning for another tour, BaseNeed connects you with verified housing listings, current BAH rates by rank, local jobs for service members and spouses, and a military community ready to help you settle in.
As a U.S. Air Force installation, Ellsworth AFB supports aviation operations, technical training, and the readiness of Airmen and their families. Air Force bases typically feature well-maintained housing areas and strong family support infrastructure. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about PCSing to Ellsworth AFB: 2026 BAH rates by pay grade, housing market conditions, on-base amenities, schools, cost of living, and community resources.
Quick Facts about Ellsworth AFB
- Branch & location
- U.S. Air Force · Box Elder, SD, United States
- 2026 BAH (E-5)
- $1,986/mo with deps · $1,545 without
- Climate
- Semi-Arid
- Off-base housing
- good
- Nearest VA facility
- Pre-Discharge Site at Ellsworth Air Force Base (~1 mi)
PCS to Ellsworth AFB — Complete 2026 Guide
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to Ellsworth AFB requires planning that most Airmen start 90–120 days before their report date. The key areas to tackle first are housing (on-base vs. off-base), BAH calculation, school enrollment for children, and spouse employment. This guide walks you through each step.
Step 1: Understand Your Orders and Timeline
Your PCS orders to Ellsworth AFB will specify your Report No Later Than (RNLTD) date — your primary planning anchor. From this date work backwards: HHG shipment scheduling (DPS at move.mil) should happen at least 30–45 days out; housing research should begin immediately. Contact your losing unit S1 or PSD to initiate your out-processing checklist as soon as orders are in hand. Request a sponsor from your gaining unit — most U.S. Air Force units assign one who can answer installation-specific questions and help your family settle in before you arrive.
Step 2: Calculate Your 2026 BAH and Set a Housing Budget
Your 2026 BAH for Box Elder, SD is your housing budget ceiling. E-5 with dependents: $1,986/month. E-5 without dependents: $1,545/month. E-7 with dependents: $2,307/month. O-3 with dependents: $2,475/month. BAH is fully tax-free and determined by your pay grade and dependency status. In Box Elder, BAH rates are calibrated to cover the 80th percentile of local rental costs, leaving most service members with practical options within their allowance. Use the BaseNeed BAH Calculator to compare rates across all pay grades.
Step 3: On-Base vs. Off-Base Housing Decision
Both on-base and off-base housing have advantages. On-base simplifies your commute and community, while off-base often offers more space and the potential to save money if rent falls below your BAH rate. Apply for on-base housing immediately after receiving orders — even if you lean toward off-base, maintaining a waitlist position keeps all options open. Browse verified housing listings near Ellsworth AFB on BaseNeed, filtered to your BAH rate and preferred communities.
Step 4: Schools, Childcare, and Family Resources
Contact the School Liaison Officer (SLO) at Ellsworth AFB early — they specialize in school enrollment, record transfers, and finding the right educational fit for military-connected students at every grade level. DoDEA schools (if available on-base) offer curriculum continuity across PCS moves. For childcare, the Child Development Center (CDC) on base provides subsidized, high-quality care — waitlists can be 6–12 months, so register immediately after receiving orders. The Family Support Center offers free spouse employment assistance, financial counseling, and PCS transition workshops for the whole family.
Step 5: Schedule Your HHG Shipment and Travel
Book your Household Goods (HHG) shipment through DPS (move.mil) as early as possible — peak PCS season (May–August) fills carrier capacity quickly. Options include a full government move, a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), or a combination. Pack a "first-night box" with essentials — documents, medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes per family member — separately from your main shipment. Photograph all valuables before the move and file claims promptly for any damage discovered at delivery. Carriers are required to honor claims within the timeframe specified in your Bill of Lading.
Step 6: In-Process at Ellsworth AFB
Upon arrival, complete garrison in-processing at the welcome center. Required stops typically include finance (to activate BAH and other allowances), medical and dental records transfer, vehicle registration, ID card office, and your unit S1 or PSD. Bring multiple copies of your orders, all ID cards, medical records, vehicle title, and signed housing paperwork. Most installations complete full in-processing in 2–5 business days. Your unit sponsor can walk you through installation-specific requirements and help your family get oriented faster.
Housing & Cost of Living — Ellsworth AFB
The 2026 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for Box Elder, SD ranges from $1,545/month for junior enlisted without dependents to $2,475/month for mid-grade officers with dependents. All BAH is 100% tax-free income.
Open BAH Calculator → Browse Housing Near Ellsworth AFB →
More useful BaseNeed resources
Use these quick links to continue your PCS planning, compare BAH, and explore local military community support.
2026 BAH Rate Table — Ellsworth AFB (Box Elder, SD)
E-5 with dependents: $1,986/mo | Without dependents: $1,545/mo
| Pay Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 | $1,800/mo | $1,440/mo |
| E-2 | $1,800/mo | $1,440/mo |
| E-3 | $1,800/mo | $1,440/mo |
| E-4 | $1,800/mo | $1,440/mo |
| E-5 | $1,986/mo | $1,545/mo |
| E-6 | $2,211/mo | $1,656/mo |
| E-7 | $2,307/mo | $1,806/mo |
| E-8 | $2,409/mo | $2,037/mo |
| E-9 | $2,538/mo | $2,094/mo |
| W-1 | $2,229/mo | $1,746/mo |
| W-2 | $2,349/mo | $2,034/mo |
| W-3 | $2,478/mo | $2,103/mo |
| W-4 | $2,559/mo | $2,226/mo |
| W-5 | $2,664/mo | $2,328/mo |
| O-1 | $2,022/mo | $1,614/mo |
| O-1E | $2,322/mo | $1,983/mo |
| O-2 | $2,208/mo | $1,929/mo |
| O-2E | $2,457/mo | $2,082/mo |
| O-3 | $2,475/mo | $2,124/mo |
| O-3E | $2,574/mo | $2,202/mo |
| O-4 | $2,691/mo | $2,304/mo |
| O-5 | $2,850/mo | $2,361/mo |
| O-6 | $2,871/mo | $2,457/mo |
| O-7 | $2,889/mo | $2,496/mo |
Source: DFAS 2026 BAH rates for Box Elder, SD. Rates are 100% tax-free and updated each January 1st. BAH is designed to cover the 80th percentile of local housing costs.
Climate & Lifestyle near Ellsworth AFB
The climate near Ellsworth AFB is Semi-Arid. Factor seasonal weather patterns into your PCS timing and housing search. Extreme summer heat makes air conditioning essential — budget for higher electric bills June through September. Water quality and conservation are community-wide priorities.
Outdoor recreation and quality-of-life activities vary significantly by season at this installation. Connect with Airmen already stationed at Ellsworth AFB on BaseNeed's community to get first-hand lifestyle insights.
On-Base Amenities at Ellsworth AFB
As a U.S. Air Force installation, Ellsworth AFB provides comprehensive on-base facilities for Airmen, retirees, and eligible family members. These subsidized services significantly reduce cost of living compared to civilian alternatives — one of the major financial benefits of military service.
🍽️ Dining & Clubs
- • Food Court
- • Dakota's Club
- • Coffee Shop
💪 Fitness & Recreation
- • Fitness Center
- • Indoor Pool
- • Outdoor Track
🏨 On-Base Lodging
- • Temporary Lodging Facility (TLF)
- • On-base Inn
🤝 Support Services
- • Military & Family Readiness Center
- • Chapel
- • Legal Assistance
- • Military OneSource
🛒 Shopping & Commissary
- • Commissary
- • Base Exchange (BX)
- • Shoppette
🏥 Healthcare
- • Ellsworth Medical Clinic
- • Dental Clinic
- • Pharmacy
🎳 Recreation & Library
- • Base Library
- • Outdoor Recreation
- • Auto Hobby Shop
- • Bowling Center
👨👩👧 Family Services
- • Child Development Center
- • Youth Center
- • School Liaison Office
Military Community & Spouse Employment at Ellsworth AFB
The military community around Ellsworth AFB is one of the installation's greatest assets. Connecting with other Airmen and families before your PCS move smooths the transition — especially for spouses and children adjusting to a new duty station. Use BaseNeed's community features to connect with families currently at Ellsworth AFB, ask questions about local schools and neighborhoods, and find PCS buddies going through the same process.
Military spouse employment near Ellsworth AFB is supported by the Spouse Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) at the installation Family Support Center. Resources include resume workshops, job search tools, licensing and certification support, and connections to military-friendly employers in Box Elder. Federal employment via USAJOBS offers Military Spouse Hiring Preference (Executive Order 13473), and many contractors on and near the installation actively recruit military spouses. Remote and hybrid work has also become a popular solution for location-flexible employment across PCS moves.
→ Browse jobs near Ellsworth AFB · → Join the Ellsworth AFB community on BaseNeed
Why Ellsworth AFB Stands Out
- B-1B Lancer
- Future B-21 Raider
- Black Hills
- Affordable Housing
Other U.S. Air Force Installations
Exploring other U.S. Air Force duty stations? Compare BAH rates and housing conditions:
- → Luke AFB (Glendale, AZ)
- → Aviano Air Base (Aviano, Italy)
- → Maxwell-Gunter AFB (Montgomery, AL)
- → Osan Air Base (Pyeongtaek, South Korea)
- → Eglin AFB (Valparaiso, FL)
- → Wright-Patterson AFB (Dayton, OH)
VA Facilities Near Ellsworth AFB
Veterans, retirees, and eligible family members stationed at or transitioning near Ellsworth AFB have 5 Department of Veterans Affairs facilities within reach — for VA healthcare enrollment (Form 10-10EZ), disability claims, education benefits, and counseling. Distances are from the installation.
| VA Facility | Type | Location | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Discharge Site at Ellsworth Air Force Base 800-827-1000 | Pre-Discharge Site | Ellsworth Air Force Base, SD | 1 mi |
| Rapid City Mobile Vet Center 605-348-0077 | vet_center | Rapid City, SD | 7 mi |
| Rapid City Vet Center 605-348-0077 | vet_center | Rapid City, SD | 7 mi |
| Rapid City Veteran Readiness and Employment Office 800-827-1000 | Veteran Readiness and Employment Office | Rapid City, SD | 8 mi |
| Rapid City VA Clinic 605-718-1095 | Multi-Specialty CBOC | Rapid City, SD | 12 mi |
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov) facilities directory, synced monthly. Verify hours and services with the facility before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions — Ellsworth AFB
What is the 2026 BAH rate for Ellsworth AFB?
The 2026 BAH rate at Ellsworth AFB for an E-5 with dependents is $1,986/month and $1,545/month without dependents. An E-7 with dependents receives $2,307/month. An O-3 with dependents receives $2,475/month. BAH is 100% tax-free and is based on the local Military Housing Area (MHA) for Box Elder, SD. Rates are updated each January 1st based on DoD rental market surveys.
How do I PCS to Ellsworth AFB?
To PCS to Ellsworth AFB: (1) Confirm your orders and report-no-later-than (RNLTD) date. (2) Request a sponsor from your gaining unit. (3) Calculate your 2026 BAH for Box Elder, SD — E-5 with dependents receives $1,986/month. (4) Apply for on-base housing early or browse off-base rentals. (5) Schedule your HHG shipment through DPS (move.mil). (6) In-process with finance, medical, and your unit upon arrival.
Is housing available near Ellsworth AFB?
Housing near Ellsworth AFB is currently good. Browse verified military housing listings on BaseNeed filtered to this base and your BAH budget.
What is the cost of living near Ellsworth AFB?
Cost of living in Box Elder, SD varies. BAH rates are calibrated annually to local rental markets, ensuring your housing allowance keeps pace with actual costs.
What branch of the military is Ellsworth AFB?
Ellsworth AFB is a U.S. Air Force installation located in Box Elder, SD. It is classified as a base.
What is the on-base housing wait time at Ellsworth AFB?
On-base housing wait times at Ellsworth AFB vary by availability, housing type, and pay grade. Contact the garrison Housing Office after receiving orders for the most current waitlist information. Submitting your application early preserves your place even if you ultimately choose to live off-base.
What amenities are at Ellsworth AFB?
Ellsworth AFB offers on-base dining & clubs, fitness & recreation, on-base lodging, support services, shopping & commissary, healthcare, recreation & library, family services. These facilities are available to active duty Airmen, retirees, and eligible family members. The commissary saves military families an average of 30% on groceries vs. commercial prices. Fitness centers are free for active duty members.
Are there jobs for military spouses near Ellsworth AFB?
Military spouses at Ellsworth AFB have several employment pathways. On-base: Federal positions via USAJOBS (military spouse hiring preference, E.O. 13473), AAFES, DoDEA schools, childcare centers, and contractor roles. Off-base: Box Elder has civilian employers familiar with military families. The Spouse Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) at the Family Support Center provides free resume help, job search tools, and licensing/certification resources. Browse military-friendly jobs near Ellsworth AFB on BaseNeed.
What schools are near Ellsworth AFB?
Children of service members at Ellsworth AFB can attend on-base DoDEA schools (if available) or public schools in Box Elder and surrounding districts. DoDEA schools follow a standardized curriculum across all installations, making PCS transitions smoother for students. Contact the School Liaison Officer (SLO) at Ellsworth AFB for help with school enrollment, records transfers, and identifying the best educational fit for your family.
What is the climate like near Ellsworth AFB?
The climate near Ellsworth AFB is Semi-Arid. Extreme summer heat means air conditioning is essential — budget for higher utility costs June through September. Factor weather patterns into your PCS timing and housing search.
What family support services are available at Ellsworth AFB?
Ellsworth AFB offers a full range of family support through the installation's family readiness programs. Key resources include the Family Support Center (financial counseling, deployment support, family advocacy), Child Development Centers (subsidized childcare — register immediately after receiving orders, waitlists can be 6-12 months), the School Liaison Officer for education transitions, and the Chapel for spiritual support. Use BaseNeed's community features to connect with families already at Ellsworth AFB for candid, first-hand advice.
How does BAH work at Ellsworth AFB?
BAH at Ellsworth AFB is a tax-free monthly allowance based on the Box Elder, SD Military Housing Area. Your rate is determined by pay grade and dependency status. You receive BAH whether you live on-base or off. In privatized on-base housing, your BAH equals your rent — you break even. Off-base, any difference between your BAH and actual rent is yours to keep, tax-free. 2026 E-5 rates: $1,986/mo with dependents, $1,545/mo without.
What is the population of Ellsworth AFB?
Ellsworth AFB is a U.S. Air Force installation in Box Elder, SD, hosting active duty Airmen, their families, and a significant civilian workforce.
What communities are near Ellsworth AFB?
Ellsworth AFB is located in Box Elder, SD. Surrounding communities offer off-base housing, schools, dining, and shopping for military families. Use BaseNeed to explore housing listings near this installation.
Is Ellsworth AFB a good duty station?
Ellsworth AFB is reviewed by the BaseNeed community from Airmen and families stationed there. Quality of life depends on your priorities — housing affordability, school quality, spousal employment, climate, and community. Join BaseNeed's Ellsworth AFB community group to connect with service members currently stationed there for honest, first-hand perspectives.
Where is the nearest VA facility to Ellsworth AFB?
The nearest VA facility to Ellsworth AFB is Pre-Discharge Site at Ellsworth Air Force Base in Ellsworth Air Force Base, SD — a Pre-Discharge Site about 1 miles from the installation. There are 5 VA locations within reach for healthcare enrollment (VA Form 10-10EZ), disability claims, education benefits, and counseling. Others nearby: Rapid City Mobile Vet Center (7 mi), Rapid City Vet Center (7 mi). Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov).
PCSing to Ellsworth AFB?
BaseNeed is the military community platform built for U.S. Air Force families. Find verified housing listings, current 2026 BAH rates, local jobs, and connect with Airmen already stationed at Ellsworth AFB.
Explore Ellsworth AFB on BaseNeed → Browse Housing →Join the Ellsworth AFB community to ask PCS questions, share local tips, and connect with families stationed here.