Welcome to the Chihuahuan Desert and the vibrant, multicultural border city of El Paso! Fort Bliss is a massive Army post and a key center for air defense artillery. A PCS here offers a unique cultural experience, a very low cost of living, and stunning desert landscapes.

Area Overview:

• Location & Climate: Fort Bliss is located in El Paso, Texas, on the border with Mexico and New Mexico. The climate is hot and dry, with over 300 days of sunshine. Summers are very hot, but the low humidity makes it more tolerable. Winters are mild and sunny.
• Local Vibe: El Paso has a rich culture that is a true blend of American and Mexican influences. It's a friendly, family-oriented city with some of the best Mexican food you will ever eat.

On-Base Housing & Amenities:

• Housing: On-post housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities and is known for being some of the newest and highest-quality housing in the Army. The main housing area, Freedom Crossing, is a modern, walkable community.
• Amenities: Freedom Crossing at Fort Bliss is a first-of-its-kind open-air shopping center on a military base, with a massive exchange, commissary, restaurants, and a movie theater. William Beaumont Army Medical Center is the main hospital.

Local Housing Market & Popular Neighborhoods:

• East El Paso: A large, sprawling suburban area with lots of new construction and big-box shopping. It's very popular with families.
• West El Paso: Located on the other side of the Franklin Mountains, this area is generally considered more established and has a different feel from the East side.
• Northeast El Paso: The area closest to the main part of the post, offering convenient and affordable housing options.

Schools & Childcare:

• On-Post Schools: There are no DoDEA schools. Children attend local school districts.
• Off-Post Schools: El Paso is served by several large districts, including El Paso ISD, Ysleta ISD, and Socorro ISD. Many families choose homes based on specific school ratings within these districts.
• Childcare: A robust network of CDCs and FCC homes are available on post.

Things to Do & Pro-Tips:

• Local Must-Dos: Hike or take the Wyler Aerial Tramway up the Franklin Mountains State Park for incredible views. Experience the unique border culture.
• Insider Info: El Paso is on Mountain Time, but the rest of Texas is on Central Time. This can be confusing when dealing with businesses or appointments elsewhere in the state.
• Weekend Trips: A trip to White Sands National Park in New Mexico (1.5 hours) is an absolute must-do. The cool mountain town of Ruidoso, NM, (2.5 hours) is a popular getaway for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.