Robins AFB Relocation Guide, Part Two: Housing and Neighborhoods
Once you understand the layout of Middle Georgia, the natural next step is figuring out where you want to live. Choosing the right home is one of the biggest decisions you will make when moving to Robins AFB, and I work closely with military families every day who are trying to decide between base housing and the surrounding communities. My goal here is to give you a clear, honest overview so you can make the choice that feels right for your family.
Base Housing Overview
Robins Air Force Base offers privatized housing through Hunt Military Communities. Availability changes throughout the year, and wait times can vary based on rank, family size, and the number of bedrooms you need. Some families get placed quickly, while others experience longer waits depending on demand.
Base housing generally includes:
Multiple neighborhood options
Playgrounds and parks
Access to on base amenities
A strong military community feel
Not all families qualify, and some choose to live off base for more space, stronger school options, newer homes, or the flexibility to select their own neighborhood. If you want base housing, I always recommend applying early and confirming your waitlist position before making other plans.
Popular Off Base Areas
Most military families look at five main areas when searching for housing near Robins AFB. Each one has a different lifestyle and price point, but all offer reasonable commutes and a welcoming feel.
Warner Robins
This is the closest city to the base and offers the widest range of home styles. You will find established neighborhoods, townhomes, new construction, and plenty of shopping and dining. Commute times typically range from five to fifteen minutes depending on the gate you use and where in the city you live.
Bonaire & Kathleen
Bonaire is one of the most popular areas for families who want newer homes and access to high performing schools. Most of Bonaire is quiet and residential with well maintained neighborhoods. Commutes usually take ten to fifteen minutes. Kathleen feels very similar to Bonaire and share the same school system. There are many newer construction neighborhoods as well as a few established areas. Commutes are usually twelve to twenty minutes depending on location.
Centerville
Centerville is a small but convenient city north of the base. You are close to Target, the Galleria area, restaurants, and shopping. Homes range from older established streets to newer subdivisions. Commutes run ten to eighteen minutes. Most of Centerville also shares the Houston County School System.
Perry
If you want a slower pace and more historic charm, Perry is a wonderful option. You will find a mix of new construction, classic southern homes, and quiet neighborhoods. It is a little farther from the base which gives it a more small town feel. Commutes usually take twenty to thirty minutes. Perry is the County Seat of Houston and shares Houston County Public schools.
Typical Home Styles in Middle Georgia
Homes in this region vary widely which makes it easy to find something that matches your preferences. Common options include:
Brick ranch homes
Traditional two story homes
New construction with open floor plans
Neighborhoods with community amenities
Larger lots in more rural areas
Townhomes and patio homes in select neighborhoods
Many families who are moving to Warner Robins are surprised by how much home they can get for the price compared to other parts of the country.
Average Rent and Home Prices
Prices change slightly year to year but here is a general overview to help you plan.
Renting
Most single family homes rent between 1500 and 2200 per month depending on size, age, and location. Townhomes and smaller homes may be slightly less. Newer neighborhoods and highly rated school zones tend to rent on the higher end.
New construction homes are a popular choice with military families in Middle Georgia.
Buying
The average home price in Houston County often falls between 230,000 and 350,000 although new construction and larger homes can exceed that range. Perry remains one of the more affordable areas while Bonaire and Kathleen often sit slightly higher due to school zones and new development.
When you combine these prices with BAH, most families find that moving to Georgia often feels more affordable than they expected.
New Construction Opportunities
New construction is a major draw for families relocating to Robins AFB. Builders are active throughout Bonaire, Kathleen, Perry, and parts of Warner Robins. Many neighborhoods offer modern layouts, energy efficient features, and the option to choose finishes if you get in early.
New construction is especially appealing if you want:
A low maintenance home
Builder warranties
Modern features
Uniform, well kept neighborhoods
Inventory changes quickly but there are usually several new communities being built at any given time.
Pros and Cons of Each Area for Military Families
Here is a simple breakdown to help you narrow your choices.
Warner Robins
Pros
Closest to the base. Lots of shopping and dining. Wide variety of home choices.
Cons
Busier areas. Less of a small town feel.
Bonaire
Pros
Highly rated schools. Newer neighborhoods. Strong military presence.
Cons
Higher demand which can make homes move faster.
Kathleen
Pros
Newer construction. Quiet and residential. Great school zones.
Cons
Slightly longer commute from the southern side.
Centerville
Pros
Convenient to major shopping. Smaller city feel. Easy commute.
Cons
Limited inventory compared to Warner Robins.
Perry
Pros
Charming downtown. More space. Slower pace. Affordable prices.
Cons
Longest commute to Robins AFB.
Helping You Find the Right Fit
Every family has different priorities. Some want the closest possible commute. Others want highly rated schools, new construction, or a quieter lifestyle. Your preferences will guide us to the right city and neighborhood long before you ever arrive in Georgia.
When you are moving to Robins AFB, you should feel informed and confident, not overwhelmed.
Part 3 of this series will cover schools, daycare, and childcare options so you can start planning the next step of your move.
