Are you making a PCS move to NAS Meridian? This small but mighty Mississippi duty station has a lot going for it. Military moves come with a learning curve, but with the right information and a few local insights, you’ll settle in quickly.
Here are a few things to know so you can make your PCS to NAS Meridian smoother and filled with a little fun.
About NAS Meridian
NAS Meridian is a mission-focused installation primarily dedicated to aviation training. It’s home to Training Air Wing One, where student naval aviators earn their wings through advanced jet training in the T-45 Goshawk. You’ll see a steady flow of instructors, student pilots, and support personnel rotating through the training pipeline.
The base also hosts the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training (CNATT), where sailors and Marines receive technical instruction for aviation maintenance and support roles. The community feels like a close-knit campus, busy enough to have activities and resources, but small enough that you’ll quickly recognize familiar faces.
Get to Know the Area
NAS Meridian sits about 15 miles northeast of the city of Meridian, Mississippi. The community is known for its Southern hospitality, affordable living, and slower-paced lifestyle. You won’t find the hustle of a big city here, but you will find friendly neighbors, strong military support, and a culture centered around family, food, and outdoor time.
Expect plenty of locally owned shops offering comfort food and community events that bring everyone together. The Meridian area is also proud of its arts scene. You'll find murals, local galleries, and musical performances around town. If you’re used to big-city traffic, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to get around. Most places fall within a 20–25 minute drive.
While the summers are hot and humid, the winters are mild. You may see occasional severe thunderstorms, but you also get plenty of sunshine for those weekend adventures.
Where to Live Near NAS Meridian
One of the biggest decisions when PCSing is figuring out where you want to call home. Luckily, you have several good options around NAS Meridian.
On-Base Housing
Hunt Military Communities manages on-base housing at NAS Meridian. These neighborhoods are popular with families who want the convenience of living close to everything, including the commissary, child development center, fitness center, and base amenities. If you prefer a built-in community of fellow military families, this is a great fit.
Because BAH rates play a big role in budgeting, it’s good to check the current rates for NAS Meridian. The area BAH rates tend to be more affordable compared to larger installations, which might give you some flexibility when choosing whether to live on or off base.
NAS Meridian Off-Base Housing
Northeast Lauderdale County
Northeast Lauderdale is closest to base and offers a rural, quiet atmosphere. You’ll find larger lots, trees, and a peaceful setting, perfect if you prefer space and privacy. The commute to NAS Meridian is short, often 10–20 minutes.
Northeast or North Meridian
These spots are popular with service members seeking better access to shops, restaurants, schools, and conveniences. You’ll find a mix of established neighborhoods, newer builds, and rentals. Commutes typically run 20–30 minutes.
Lauderdale, Collinsville, or Marion
If you’re looking for suburban or rural living with a family-friendly vibe, Lauderdale and Collinsville are strong contenders. Many PCSing families land here because the area is near to both the base and town. PLus, the countryside views are a bonus.
View homes for sale and houses for rent near NAS Meridian.
Photo by FatCamera from Getty Images Signature via Canva.com
Schools Near NAS Meridian
Most military families stationed at NAS Meridian fall into one of two school districts, depending on where they live:
Lauderdale County School District (LCSD)
Families living on base or in nearby communities are typically zoned for LCSD. This is the most common choice for on-base residents and those who want a straightforward commute.
Meridian Public School District (MPSD)
If you live closer to downtown Meridian or within city limits, you may be zoned for MPSD. Schools vary by neighborhood, so it’s worth checking zoning maps before choosing housing.
Private School Review is a good place to see reviews for those families interested in a private school education. Those seeking to homeschool their children should refer to the Mississippi Department of Education.
Things to Do Near NAS Meridian
Though Meridian is a smaller city, there’s plenty to explore.
Around Meridian
- Bonita Lakes Park: a favorite for families and outdoor lovers. Walking trails, water views, picnic areas, and a relaxing atmosphere make it a go-to weekend spot.
- The MAX (Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience): a beautiful museum highlighting Mississippi’s influence on the world of music, film, and the arts.
- Downtown Meridian: renovated and filled with restaurants, coffee shops, murals, and boutiques. It’s a great spot for strolling or date night.
- Dunn’s Falls: waterfalls, nature trails, and scenic views, making it perfect for a Saturday outing.
A Little Farther Out
- Philadelphia, MS: about an hour from Meridian, Philadelphia is home to the Silver Star and Golden Moon casinos at Pearl River Resort, which features water parks, dining, and entertainment.
- Jackson, MS: the state capital is about 1.5 hours away and offers museums, shopping, and a bigger-city experience when you need one.
- Gulf Coast: it takes around three hours to get to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, which is ideal for a weekend escape.
A PCS military move to NAS Meridian might surprise you in a good way. The area is friendly, affordable, and full of hidden gems, whether you want outdoor time, arts and culture, or a family-oriented community. With the right planning, an understanding of BAH rates, and an open mindset, you’ll find that PCSing here offers a simpler, quieter lifestyle that many military families fall in love with.
