Whether you are a Texas native or you are moving to the Joint Base (JB) San Antonio area from out of state, it can be helpful to know more about your new installation’s surroundings. Renowned for its unique setup and for hosting the San Antonio Military Medical Center, JB San Antonio is visited by around 70,000 military personnel each day.
As you settle into San Antonio or the surrounding area, you’ll discover a city that is overflowing with restaurants, shopping opportunities and fun activities. We’ve taken top military member questions about Joint Base San Antonio and answered them below!
Joint Base San Antonio Housing
While thousands of military members live on Joint Base San Antonio, many others decide to reside in the surrounding communities. Since San Antonio is known for being a rich environment full of varying cultures and experiences, it’s understandable why many service members decide to live off base.
What are the best neighborhoods?
The military community surrounding JB San Antonio encompasses the areas of Fort Sam Houston, Lackland Air Force Base and Randolph Air Force Base. Fort Sam Houston is located just North of downtown San Antonio and is easily accessible from several directions.
Terrell Hills, Olmos Park and Alamo Heights are all popular choices among military families, and they are within a 15-minute drive of the base. Many who work at Lackland AFB recommend Alamo Ranch. Many of the homes in that area are within the immediate vicinity and are older, but the 15-20 minute commute brings you to very nice neighborhoods.
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JB San Antonio Community
The area surrounding Joint Base San Antonio is a community packed with endless things to do. From restaurants from a variety of cultures to shops and historical sights, it’s almost impossible for those living in or visiting San Antonio to get bored!
What schools are considered the best?
As in most cities, school ratings in San Antonio can vary widely between areas and even across time. There are several highly rated schools, including Hardy Oak Elementary and Bush Middle School.
The on-post elementary school on Fort Sam Houston is very popular as it is highly accommodating for students of service members in the Wounded Warrior program. Greatschools.org has all of the information you need to know about the schools in your area, including comparative ratings in areas of test scores, college readiness and more.
Is there anywhere that traffic is especially bad?
Traffic in San Antonio can be very heavy at peak times, both at 9 A.M. and 5 P.M. The gates around the base experience pretty normal, easy-to-manage traffic. Multiple gates are open to ease traffic and offer various options for those entering and exiting from surrounding neighborhoods.
Can I get off-post for lunch?
Yes, and there are numerous quick and easy food choices near the base. San Antonio is known for food and for its food trucks! Sometimes, traffic can get congested if you head off base for lunch. However, the PX becomes extremely crowded for lunch, so that should probably be a last resort if you’re looking for a fast option.
Where are the best grocery shopping locations?
San Antonio is a large city and has a number of grocery shopping options, including H.E.B and Central Market. AHRN users report preferring the H.E.B. on E Basse Rd in San Antonio, so definitely give that location a try!
What are local restaurant favorites?
Many service members living in the area testify to enjoying Saltgrass Steak House and Bun N Barrel. There are hundreds of restaurants across San Antonio with close to five-star ratings, so you really can’t go wrong! From fine dining to Tex Mex, San Antonio has whatever you would like.
Where do you go to grab a coffee with a friend and relax?
Known as “The #1 Attraction in Texas,” The San Antonio River Walk is a hub for both tourists and locals who want to grab a snack or hang out with friends. We recommend heading to the River Walk without a plan in mind and just see what you can discover!
What is the best spot for date night?
Zinc Bistro & Bar, Paesanos River Walk, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Ounce Steakhouse and JW Marriott are wonderful options for a dressed-up night out. For a more relaxed experience, a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse or Jim’s Restaurant at 4108 & Broadway are sure to offer a good time!
What are the best activities in town for kids?
San Antonio is home to several family-friendly attractions, including Sea World and The San Antonio River Walk as just a couple of examples. MWR on base does a wonderful job of organizing and arranging for fun opportunities! If you are at JB San Antonio as a Wounded Warrior, there are organized classes and outings that you should not miss.
Discover San Antonio Military Housing
San Antonio has an incredibly vibrant culture of its own that is wonderfully supportive of the military community. Find the perfect military housing solution for your time in the area by signing up at AHRN. Here, you can find both rentals and homes for sale in the neighborhoods most recommended and frequented by fellow service members.