PCSing to Fort Cavazos (Formerly Fort Hood)

A Darn Good Guide by @ianofAustin Texas Realtor

Relocating for military service can be daunting, but if you’re PCSing to Fort Cavazos in Killeen, Texas, you’re moving to a region with strong military support, affordable housing, and quick access to some of Texas’ most dynamic cities. As a Texas Realtor with the REAL Broker Military Division, @ianofAustin is here to guide you through the process and help you make informed decisions.

Drive Times to Popular Texas Destinations

One of Fort Cavazos’ major advantages is its central location, offering easy travel to several key areas. If you’re planning to live off-base or want to explore the state, here’s what you need to know:

• Austin, TX: 1 hour (60 miles south) – A booming tech hub with a vibrant cultural scene, top-ranked schools, and a strong job market. Austin is perfect for those looking for entertainment, music festivals, and cutting-edge industries.
• Round Rock, TX: 50 minutes (55 miles south) – Known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and family-friendly amenities. Home to major employers like Dell, making it a great option for military spouses seeking employment.
• Waco, TX: 45 minutes (50 miles north) – Home of Baylor University and Magnolia Market, this city offers a mix of small-town charm and big-city attractions. It’s a great spot for weekend trips or an affordable alternative for homebuyers.
• Temple, TX: 30 minutes (25 miles east) – A rapidly growing city with major hospitals, medical research facilities, and a cost of living that’s lower than the national average. If you work in the medical field, Temple is a top choice.
• Georgetown, TX: 1 hour (65 miles south) – One of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, offering a historic downtown, boutique shopping, and some of the best schools in the region. It’s ideal for families looking for suburban living with a short commute to Austin.
• Belton, TX: 30 minutes (30 miles southeast) – Nestled along the shores of Belton Lake, this city provides stunning natural scenery, outdoor recreation, and a small-town feel with easy access to larger cities.

If you’re considering buying or renting off-base, these areas provide a variety of housing options, from affordable homes in Killeen to upscale communities in Georgetown and Round Rock.

Key Paperwork for Your PCS

To ensure a seamless move, make sure you have the following essential forms ready:

1. PCS Orders – Official military reassignment orders.
2. DD Form 1746 – Application for Assignment to Housing.
3. DA Form 31 – Request for Leave, tracking your travel and transition dates.
4. POA (Power of Attorney) – Required if a spouse or family member is handling housing or finances for you.
5. VA Loan Pre-Approval – If you’re planning to buy a home, secure pre-approval to streamline your housing search.
6. Medical & School Records – Essential for enrolling dependents in local healthcare and education services.

Housing & Top Neighborhoods Near Fort Cavazos

Whether you choose to live on or off base, Fort Cavazos provides several attractive options:

On-Base Housing

Managed by Lendlease Fort Hood Family Housing, on-base communities include access to fitness centers, parks, and schools. Housing is assigned based on rank and family size, so applying early is critical.

Off-Base Housing – Best Areas to Consider

• Harker Heights – A top choice for military families, offering newer homes, top-rated schools, and easy access to Fort Cavazos (15-minute drive).
• Killeen – The closest city to the base, with affordable housing options and a strong military community.
• Nolanville – A small, quiet town just east of Killeen, perfect for those seeking a suburban feel.
• Belton – Located 30 minutes away, known for its excellent school district and scenic Belton Lake.
• Temple – A growing city with great job opportunities, major hospitals, and easy commutes.
• Georgetown & North Austin – For those seeking a balance between military life and Austin’s job market, these areas offer a high quality of life with top-tier schools and amenities.

Essential Resources & Addresses

Fort Cavazos Welcome Center

• Location: Building 69012, T.J. Mills Blvd., Fort Cavazos, TX 76544
• Phone: (254) 287-1110

Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center

• Location: 36065 Santa Fe Ave., Fort Cavazos, TX 76544
• Phone: (254) 288-8000

VA Hospital – Central Texas Veterans Health Care System

• Location: 1901 Veterans Memorial Dr., Temple, TX 76504
• Phone: (254) 743-0581

Special Considerations for Texas Veterans & Active Duty

• Constitutional Carry – Texas allows permitless carry for eligible individuals, including active duty military members and veterans. However, it’s important to understand local regulations regarding firearm possession and carry policies on base.
• Property Tax Exemptions – Texas offers some of the most generous property tax reductions for veterans. A 100% disability rating may exempt veterans from all property taxes on their primary residence, significantly reducing housing costs.
• Hazlewood Act – Provides up to 150 hours of tuition-free college education at Texas public universities for qualifying veterans, their spouses, or dependents, making higher education more accessible.
• No State Income Tax – Texas does not tax individual income, allowing military families to keep more of their earnings compared to states with high income taxes.
• Veteran Hiring Preferences – Many state agencies and local employers offer hiring preferences to veterans, making job searches easier for transitioning service members and spouses.
• Driver’s License Benefits – Texas offers military service-related exemptions and extensions on driver’s licenses, including renewal extensions for those deployed outside the state.
• Military Family Support – Texas has numerous programs for military families, including childcare assistance, spouse employment resources, and financial aid programs tailored for service members and their families.

Ready to Move? Let @ianofAustin Texas Realtor Help!

As one of the early members of the Military Division of REAL Broker and someone with deep family ties to military and law enforcement service, I understand the unique needs of those who serve. My father served in the Navy, my mother-in-law was also in the Navy, my father-in-law was a police officer and Army veteran, and two of my brother-in-laws are Marine veterans now serving as police officers.

I take pride in helping military families find the right home, whether it’s near Fort Cavazos or in one of the many thriving communities nearby. If you’re looking for a seamless home-buying experience backed by expertise in VA loans and military relocations, reach out today. Let’s make your transition to Texas a smooth one!