Relocating to California with the Military: What Service Members Need to Know

California is home to some of the largest and most active military bases in the country. From the coast to the desert, the Golden State is a frequent destination for service members with PCS orders. If you’re relocating to California with the military, it’s worth preparing early. Moreover, the process involves more than just packing and paperwork. Each region comes with its own housing challenges, cost of living, and school systems. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through it alone. There are moving services for military families that can help you plan each step.

Key Military Bases in California by Branch

California has bases for every branch of the U.S. military. Each one runs different missions and serves a different need. These bases also vary in size and location. Knowing where you’re going helps you plan for housing, schools, and how far you’ll drive each day.

Navy

• Naval Base San Diego – One of the largest Navy installations in the country; serves as the principal homeport of the Pacific Fleet.
• Naval Air Station Lemoore – Located in Central California; serves as the Navy’s primary airbase on the West Coast.

Marine Corps

• Camp Pendleton – Near Oceanside; spans over 125,000 acres and supports training for more than 40,000 active-duty personnel.
• MCAS Miramar – Also near San Diego; serves as another key base for the Marine Corps.

Air Force

• Travis Air Force Base – Located in Northern California; focuses on global logistics and air mobility.
• Edwards Air Force Base – In the Mojave Desert; serves as a major center for flight testing and aerospace research.

Army

• Fort Irwin – Located in the High Desert; home to the National Training Center offering essential combat training.
• Presidio of Monterey – Provides language instruction through the Defense Language Institute.

Coast Guard

• USCG Base Los Angeles/Long Beach – A central hub for Coast Guard operations along California’s Pacific coastline.

When arranging your move to one of these locations, moving company brokers can connect you with options that match your schedule and needs.

Managing the Cost of Living With BAH in California

HoHousing costs in California are among the highest in the country. That means your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) will play a big role in your relocation plan. Fortunately, BAH rates are adjusted based on zip code, so service members stationed in expensive areas receive more support.

San Diego, for example, has high BAH rates that reflect local rental prices. The Bay Area is another place where BAH tends to be higher due to housing demand. In contrast, areas like Twentynine Palms or Lemoore offer more affordable rental markets.

To make the most of your BAH:

• Compare rental listings and factor in utilities.
• Consider living a few miles off base to save on costs.
• Use a housing allowance calculator before signing a lease.

When budgeting your move and housing expenses, it’s helpful to understand what your BAH will actually cover. If you’re working with long distance moving services, they can help you balance timing and affordability.

Education and Family Resources for Military Families & California Military Relocation Guide

If you have children, one of your top concerns is likely their education. Fortunately, many California school districts work closely with military families. Some schools near bases have Military Student Transition Consultants (MSTCs) to help kids adjust.

The Defense Department also offers School Liaison Officers (SLOs) at most major bases. These professionals can help you enroll your child, understand curriculum options, and connect with special education services. For families with exceptional needs, the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) can assist with placement and support.

Other helpful family resources include:

• On-base child development centers (CDCs)
• Spouse employment services
• Family support centers for counseling and relocation help

Relocating with your family takes planning, but choosing long distance moving companies California has to offer can reduce the strain. A good broker helps you find movers who understand the pace and needs of military households.

PCS to California: What You Need to Know About Local Rules

Military families often focus on housing or schools. But California has rules that can affect daily life. These rules cover things like registration, taxes, and driving. Car registration is one example. If your vehicle is registered in your home state, you may not need to re-register in California. Still, check with your base transportation office to be sure. California does not tax military pay if you’re from another state. But if your spouse works, they might need to file a state return.

Fire safety is another issue. Bases near dry areas—like Camp Pendleton—face wildfire risks. Keep emergency supplies ready, sign up for alerts, and learn your evacuation route. You might also need an earthquake kit or insurance, especially in the south. Some freeways charge tolls. Others have carpool rules. You might also need an emissions test. Handling these early makes your move easier.

Choosing a PCS-Savvy Moving Partner After Relocating to California with the Military

Moving with the military is different from a standard relocation. Timelines are strict, paperwork can be complex, and your family may need extra support. That’s why choosing a moving partner familiar with military PCS moves is important.

Start by checking if the movers have worked with the Department of Defense or are part of the Defense Personal Property Program (DPS). These movers follow strict guidelines and are used to working with Transportation Management Offices (TMO).

You can also ask:

• Are they licensed and insured?
• Do they have experience with military moves?
• Can they provide flexible scheduling or storage options?

Working with relocating company brokers gives you access to multiple options instead of just one carrier. Brokers like Safeshipmoving connect you with licensed, vetted companies that understand how PCS works. They also help manage communication between you and the mover, reducing the time you spend handling logistics yourself.

PCS Transfer to California for Service Members – Plan Ahead for a Better PCS Experience

Relocating to California with the military brings unique challenges. The state has a wide range of climates, costs, and base environments. From managing BAH to preparing for wildfires and school enrollment, it helps to know what to expect. With the right support, your PCS doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Using a broker means less research, fewer delays, and more peace of mind. You get professional help from people who understand military life. If you’ve received PCS orders to California, our team specializes in military moves and can help you navigate every detail. Contact us for a stress-free relocation.