Moving to Barksdale Air Force Base
A Homebuying Guide for Military Families
If you're receiving orders to Barksdale AFB, you're likely thinking about housing, schools, and where to live in Shreveport and Bossier City. I help relocating military families navigate the local market — whether you're buying with a VA loan, comparing BAH to rent, or planning a move before you PCS. This guide is built for service members and families moving to Barksdale: neighborhoods, commute times, buy vs rent, and what to know about the area before you get here.
Should You Buy or Rent Near Barksdale?
Many military families choose to buy when they PCS to Barksdale. VA loan advantages — no down payment, no monthly PMI, competitive rates — mean you can often buy with little or no cash at closing. Comparing BAH to rent is a good starting point: in the Shreveport–Bossier market, typical price ranges for single-family homes often align with what BAH can support, especially when combined with other income. Commute times from Bossier City, Haughton, Benton, and parts of Shreveport are usually 5–20 minutes to the base, so you can prioritize neighborhood and schools without a long drive. Of course, buying isn't right for everyone; it depends on your length of stay and goals. We can walk through the numbers so you can decide with clarity.
Best Areas to Live Near Barksdale AFB
Commute time and school districts are top of mind for most families. Here are the areas military families consider when moving to Barksdale.
Bossier City
East of the Red River and close to the base. Mix of established neighborhoods and newer subdivisions. Many families live here for the short commute (often under 15 minutes) and access to schools and shopping.
South Bossier
Typically 5–10 minutes to the base. Very convenient for active duty. Popular for those who want to minimize drive time and stay close to the gate.
Shreveport
West of the Red River. Commute varies by neighborhood but often 10–20 minutes to Barksdale. Larger city with more retail, medical, and entertainment options.
Benton
East of Bossier City, usually 15–20 minutes to the base. Quieter, more rural feel with larger lots. Good choice if you want more space and don't mind a bit more drive time.
Haughton
East of Bossier, typically 10–15 minutes to Barksdale. Strong schools and family-oriented neighborhoods. Popular with military families for value and community.
Using BAH to Buy a Home
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) can count as income when you qualify for a mortgage — and many military buyers use it to qualify for a VA loan. Lenders have specific guidelines for how BAH is documented and used in your debt-to-income ratio. For a clear breakdown of how BAH works in the mortgage process, see our guide on using BAH to qualify for a mortgage.
VA Loans for Military Relocation
If you're eligible, a VA loan is one of the strongest tools for buying when you're relocating to Barksdale: no down payment, no monthly PMI, and competitive rates. We work with active-duty, veterans, Guard, and Reserves every day in the Shreveport–Bossier area and can walk you through eligibility, the funding fee, and how much home you can afford. For a full overview of how VA loans work and who qualifies, see our VA loans in Shreveport and Bossier City page. For VA-specific guidance near the base, see VA loans near Barksdale AFB.
Can You Buy a Home Before Your PCS?
Yes. Many military buyers don't wait until they've moved to start the process. You can get pre-qualified remotely from your current duty station. House hunting trips (authorized leave) let you tour homes in person, or you can work with your real estate agent on virtual tours. When it's time to close, we're used to remote closings and power of attorney (POA) when the borrower can't be there in person. We'll outline what's needed and keep the loan on track so you can close before or after you PCS — whatever fits your timeline.
Things Military Buyers Should Know About This Market
A few local factors are worth planning for. Property taxes in Louisiana vary by parish and can affect your monthly payment — we'll show you how they're reflected in your estimate. Insurance (homeowners and, where applicable, flood) is required by lenders and can be higher in areas with flood zones; your agent and insurer can help you understand flood maps and coverage. If you're reassigned later, the Shreveport–Bossier market has steady demand from other military families and civilians, which can make resale or renting when you PCS more manageable. We're happy to discuss how typical timelines and costs fit your relocation plan.
Local Expert: Why It Matters for Your Move
Military relocations come with tight timelines and unique challenges. I serve as Honorary Commander at Barksdale AFB and have participated in civic leader tours and built relationships with the wing — so I understand the mission and the community. If you're moving to Barksdale AFB and considering buying a home, I'm happy to walk through your options and help you build a strategy. No pressure, no runaround — just clear guidance so you can make the best decision for your family.
Moving to Barksdale? Explore VA loans in Shreveport and Bossier City or schedule a military relocation consultation.
Learn more about how the VA loan program works in our VA Loans in Shreveport and Bossier City guide.
Schedule a Military Relocation Consultation
Moving to Barksdale AFB and considering buying? Let's walk through your options and build a strategy — with no obligation.
30 minutes. In person, by phone, or on Zoom. No obligation.