Finding Military & Government Furnished Housing in Florida

Moving for a new assignment is stressful enough without the headache of finding a place to live. If you're heading to Florida for government work or a military post, you need housing that's comfortable, convenient, and ready when you are. The good news is you have options beyond basic barracks or expensive hotels.

Whether you're relocating to Pensacola, Jacksonville, or right here in Central Florida, knowing where to look makes all the difference. We've helped countless service members and government employees settle in, and we know the ins and outs of finding the right temporary home.

What Are Your Options for Military Housing?

Military housing typically falls into two main categories: on-base housing and privatized military housing. Each has its pros and cons depending on your rank, family size, and how long you'll be stationed.

On-Base Housing

On-base housing is owned and managed directly by the military. It's often the most convenient option because you're close to work, the commissary, and other base amenities. The application process usually involves submitting your orders to the housing office.

However, availability is often tight. Waitlists can stretch from 2 to 12 months, depending on the base and your requirements. For example, at popular Florida bases, family housing fills up quickly during PCS season (May through August). If you get a spot, your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) usually covers the rent entirely, paid via allotment.

Privatized Military Housing

Most family housing on U.S. bases is now managed by private companies through the Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI). These communities often offer newer homes and better amenities than older government-owned units. You sign a tenant lease agreement, and while rent is typically set equal to your BAH, you might be responsible for some utilities if you go over a baseline usage.

The downside? You might still face waitlists, and the quality of management can vary from base to base.

Can Government Employees Get Furnished Housing?

Yes, civilian government employees and contractors often qualify for specific housing programs, though the process differs from that of active-duty military.

The Role of the GSA

The General Services Administration (GSA) helps federal employees find temporary duty (TDY) travel accommodations. For long-term stays (over 30 days), the GSA offers affordable corporate lease apartments through approved vendors. These are fully furnished, move-in ready apartments that meet strict government standards for safety and quality.

Who is Eligible?

Typically, you qualify if you're:

• A federal employee on official travel.
• A government contractor (depending on the contract terms).
• Active duty military on TDY.

You'll need your travel orders or authorization to book. The big advantage here is the "per diem" rate. These housing options are priced to fit within the standard government per diem, which for many Florida locations ranges from $120 to over $200 per night, depending on the season, but corporate apartments often cost significantly less when booked monthly.

Where Are the Best Options in Florida?

Florida is a hub for military and government activity. Knowing the landscape helps you narrow down your search.

Major Military Bases

Florida hosts over 20 military installations. Some of the largest include:

• Naval Air Station Jacksonville: A massive hub in Northeast Florida.
• Naval Air Station Pensacola: Known as the "Cradle of Naval Aviation" in the Panhandle.
• MacDill Air Force Base: Located in Tampa, home to U.S. Central Command.
• Patrick Space Force Base: Near Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral.

If you're looking for relocation housing Simpsonville or nearby areas in South Carolina before transferring down to Florida, finding a reliable provider who operates across the Southeast is crucial.

Government Facilities

Beyond the bases, Florida has significant government presence in Orlando and the Space Coast. NASA, the Kennedy Space Center, and various federal courthouses and agencies employ thousands of civilians who often need temporary housing.

Local Real Estate Experts

This is where working with a local housing provider shines. National chains might not know that a 30-minute commute on I-4 in Orlando can turn into 90 minutes during rainstorms. We do.

How Do You Apply for Housing?

Applying for housing doesn't have to be a paperwork nightmare if you follow these steps.

1. Check Your Orders: Confirm your report date and the duration of your stay. This determines if you need short-term lodging or a longer lease.
2. Contact the Housing Office: If you want on-base housing, call the base housing office immediately. Do not wait until you arrive.
3. Explore Off-Base Options: If waitlists are long, look for GSA-approved vendors or local corporate housing providers.
4. Submit Your Application: For private corporate housing, you'll typically need to provide your ID, proof of employment or orders, and fill out a standard rental application.
5. Review the Lease: Ensure the lease includes a "military clause" or similar flexibility that allows you to break the lease without penalty if your orders change.

What Tips Ensure a Successful Application?

Competition for good housing is fierce, especially in desirable areas like Tampa or near the beaches. Here is how to get ahead.

• Start Early: Begin your search 60-90 days before your report date.
• Be Flexible: If you can accept a 2-bedroom instead of a 3-bedroom, you might get housing weeks earlier.
• Ask About Utilities: In Florida, AC bills are no joke. Ask if electricity is included in your rent. An all-inclusive corporate apartment can save you $150-$250 a month in summer cooling costs alone.
• Know Your Allowance: Check current BAH or per diem rates for your specific zip code so you know your budget ceiling.

Why Choose Corporate Housing Over Hotels?

Hotels work for a night or two, but for a month-long assignment, they get old fast.

Living out of a suitcase, eating takeout every night, and dealing with hotel noise adds unnecessary stress. Corporate housing offers a full kitchen, separate living areas, and often in-unit laundry. It's a home, not just a room. Plus, for relocation housing Simpsonville searches or moves across state lines, having a consistent housing partner simplifies the transition.

We've found that government employees who choose apartment-style living report higher satisfaction and better work-life balance during their assignments.

The Bottom Line on Government Housing

Finding the right housing is the first step to a successful assignment. You don't have to settle for a cramped hotel room or wait months for a base house that might not meet your needs. By exploring off-base, government-approved furnished apartments, you can find a comfortable, safe, and affordable home.

If you need help finding the perfect temporary home in the Southeast, contact Upstate Corporate Housing at (864) 963-1005. They specialize in relocation housing Simpsonville and throughout the region, offering the local expertise and government-standard quality you need.