PCS to Fort Leavenworth: What Military Families Can Expect
What can you and your family expect when PCSing to Fort Leavenworth?
You’re heading to one of the Army’s most historic posts — known for its tight‑knit military community, access to big‑city amenities, and family‑friendly lifestyle in northeast Kansas. This guide walks through housing, local life, and what to expect when making your next military move to Fort Leavenworth.
A Proud Legacy and Strong Military Community
Fort Leavenworth is more than just another duty station. As one of the oldest permanent Army posts west of the Mississippi, it’s home to key institutions like the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and the Combined Arms Center. With a population of around 8,000 service members, civilians, and family members, the post offers a true sense of military community — one where you’re likely to find familiar faces, peer support, and a deep respect for tradition.
And if you’re craving more than on-post life, you’re only about 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City, giving you easy access to professional sports, restaurants, and cultural events.
On-Post and Off-Post Housing Options
Whether you choose to live on post or off, Fort Leavenworth offers flexible housing to fit different needs:
On-Post Housing
The installation offers a variety of family homes, townhouses, and duplexes managed through the Fort Leavenworth Housing Office. Many families appreciate the convenience, walkability, and close-knit feel of on-post living — especially when balancing a busy PCS move or when coming for a one year school. The housing wait and assignment process is different for permanent party vs students.
Off-Post Options
Nearby towns like Leavenworth, Lansing, and even some Kansas City suburbs provide a wide range of off-post housing choices. Whether you’re renting short-term or looking to buy, there are options to match every timeline and budget.
As a military relocation expert based in Fort Leavenworth and the Kansas City area, I help families navigate both options — so you can feel confident in your housing decision from day one.
Family Life, Schools, and Youth Programs
One of the biggest concerns during any military move is how it will affect your kids. At Fort Leavenworth, family support services are a top priority.
On-post childcare includes Child Development Centers, hourly care, and after-school programs. A brand new CDC building is is underway and expected to be finished fall 2027.
Fort Leavenworth School District (USD 207) serves students PreK through 9th grade living on post.
Off-post families enroll in local school districts based on home address.
Youth activities, sports leagues, and teen programs are offered through CYS (Child & Youth Services).
The base also hosts regular family events, parenting resources, and newcomer orientations — all designed to make your transition smoother.
Curious about off-post schools? Kids frequently attend these school districts near Fort Leavenworth.
Missouri School Districts
What’s It Like to Live Here?
Life in and around Fort Leavenworth moves at a comfortable pace — with all the essentials close by and the benefits of a larger city just down the highway.
Here’s what many families appreciate most:
Historic charm with tree-lined streets and beautiful architecture
Community-focused environment where neighbors support one another
Easy access to hiking trails, golf, playgrounds, and riverfront parks
A short commute to Kansas City for day trips, concerts, shopping, and airport travel
Whether it’s your first PCS or your fifth, this post strikes a strong balance between tradition, convenience, and opportunity.
Resources for Military Spouses
There are a wide variety of resources to assist the military spouse. If you choose to work, volunteer, homeschool your kids or go back to school yourself, you won’t be alone. There are several facebook groups for Fort Leavenworth families. This is a great way to ask questions of those who have been where you are. Not a member yet? Reach out and I’ll connect you.
Planning Your Move
Orders coming for Fort Leavenworth? Here’s what you can do right now to make your military move easier:
Connect with your local REALTOR® who understands PCS timelines and housing logistics. That’s me!
Explore both on- and off-post housing early — inventory moves quickly during peak season.
Schedule a discovery call to map out your budget, school needs, and timeline.
As a REALTOR®️ and military relocation expert, I work with incoming families every day to take the stress out of moving. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just weighing your options — I’m here to help.
Your Fort Leavenworth Move Starts Here
PCS orders come with a lot of moving parts — but with the right plan and local support, you’ll land on your feet. Fort Leavenworth offers a great quality of life, strong schools, and a built-in support network for military families just like yours.
Have questions about housing, neighborhoods, or life in the area? Let’s talk. I’d love to help you make your Fort Leavenworth relocation smooth and successful.
