Now and then, the military lets you have a say in choosing your next PCS move. Has California ever been on your list? Maybe you’ve thought about the SoCal coastal areas but worried about the expense—here’s looking at you, San Diego.
But what if there were an affordable military-friendly city within a few hours’ drive of major California tourist sites, with a relaxed atmosphere? If this sounds interesting, you’ll want to check out a military move to Naval Air Station Lemoore in Lemoore, California.
Naval Air Station Lemoore's Location
Set against a picturesque agricultural backdrop, NAS Lemoore homes and neighborhoods are known for their small-town atmosphere and military-friendly community, not only in Lemoore but in nearby Hanford. NAS Lemoore has everything you need on base between the Exchange and commissary, but about 15 minutes away in Hanford, you’ll find expanded dining, shopping, and entertainment choices.
Lemoore’s Central California location is perfect for taking in the state's unique landscapes and cityscapes. No doubt exploring California’s best destinations will be on your must-do list, so check out their proximity to NAS Lemoore.
- Fresno: 45 minutes
- Yosemite National Park: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Monterey: 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Los Angeles: 3 hours
- San Francisco: 3 hours and 20 minutes
NAS Lemoore On- and Off-Base Housing
When you’re researching housing options for a PCS move to NAS Lemoore, it’s wise to have an idea of the amount of BAH you’ll receive. For example, in 2025:
- An E-5 with dependents earns $2,085 per month.
- An O-3 with dependents earns $2,349 per month.
Check MilitaryByOwner’s BAH Calculator to do the math for your rank and zip code. It will help you plan your BAH housing budget.
NAS Lemoore On-Base Housing
NAS Lemoore partners with Liberty Military Housing to operate and manage on-base military housing. They support six communities on base for military families. Along with housing accommodations, you’ll find playgrounds, sports courts, swimming pools, picnic areas, and more.
NAS Lemoore Homes
Most military families choose Lemoore NAS homes and Hanford to find a military move. Lemoore is primarily residential, but it does have a Starbucks (which may or may not help you decide).
Hanford supplies plenty of housing options and is home to a mix of retail stores and chain restaurants. Lemoore and Hanford neighborhoods to consider: Sunnyside, Fig Garden Loop, Tower District, Huntington, and Van Ness Extension.
Image from Shutterstock
Things to Do Near NAS Lemoore
Whether you choose Lemoore or Hanford, there’s plenty to occupy your time if your family loves the outdoors, thanks to NAS Lemoore's location in the San Joaquin Valley. Nearby are parks and playgrounds, as well as other outdoor adventures. The City of Lemoore’s Park and Recreation website has lists of outdoor venues and lists of classes and teams.
Lemoore
Although Lemoore is a small city with a population of about 27,000, it has its fair share of attractions. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities, including multiple golf courses and the one-of-a-kind Surf Ranch, a place to learn to surf nearly 100 miles from the beach. You’ll also find plenty of chances to connect with your equestrian side with multiple barns in the area offering rides, classes, and tours.
And when the weather isn’t cooperating, head inside to the Coyote Entertainment Center for bowling, dining, e-gaming, and an arcade. Don’t forget to connect with NAS Lemoore MWR to keep up to date with local activities and special events.
Hanford
Because it’s a bigger city, Hanford has more cultural activities and entertainment. The Hanford Fox Theater was restored to its former 1920s glory, and Main Street is packed with quaint shops, restaurants, and lots of history—it’s charming. In addition, this town hosts fun community events, like Thursday Night Farmers Markets and Blues and Roots in the fall. And in the summer, you have the Kings County Fair to look forward to!
Lemoore NAS Area Schools
For elementary through high school, all military families with a pending PCS move to Lemoore NAS fall within the Kings County School District. Then, the two schools on base fall further under the Central Union School District: R.J. Neutra (TK-5th) and Akers (K-8th).
For any questions or concerns, contact the NAS Lemoore School Liaison Officer. Or if you need more information about after-school activities and child care, contact one of these offices for help.
Support for Military and Families
For some military families moving to a quiet area, adjusting may take some time. But for others, it could be a very welcome, simple pace of life. Connecting with other military families is the best way to get acclimated to the NAS Lemoore lifestyle. Start with the Community Recreation Center for resources. You’ll probably find that your family becomes creative at finding things to do or regularly travels to a nearby city to explore.
On the base, you’ll find a pool, bowling alley, movie theater, driving range, a campground, and a handful of dining options like the Spuds Restaurant and Pub, Tailhook Tavern, and Valley Inn Galley.
For families with military spouses looking to further their education or work options, read over what the Career Services & TAP office has to help you advance. The largest employers in the county are Adventist Health, Central Valley General Hospital, and the California State Prison. However, you may find some jobs within Hanford or further up the road in Fresno.
Now that you know more about life in Lemoore, California, it’s time to start planning your PCS! Click the image below to find the most up-to-date availability for homes for sale and houses to rent near Lemoore NAS.
