The Ultimate PCS Guide to Fort Stewart, Georgia

I. Introduction & Area Overview

Introduction Welcome to Fort Stewart, the largest Army installation east of the Mississippi River. As the home of the historic 3rd Infantry Division, "Rock of the Marne," Fort Stewart's primary mission is to be a premier training and power projection platform. Your assignment here places you in the heart of Georgia's coastal "Lowcountry," a region known for its slow-paced Southern charm, immense natural beauty, and rich history. Life here moves a little slower, the sweet tea is a little sweeter, and the hospitality is as warm as the summer sun.

Location & Climate Fort Stewart is located in southeast Georgia, approximately 40 miles southwest of the historic city of Savannah. The main post is adjacent to the city of Hinesville.

The climate is humid subtropical, which means:

• Summers: Long, hot, and very humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Temperatures are consistently in the 90s (∘F) from June through September, with high humidity making it feel even hotter.
• Winters: Very mild and short. Freezing temperatures are uncommon, and snowfall is virtually nonexistent.
• Hurricane Season: From June through November, there is a risk of tropical storms and hurricanes. It's important to have a family plan in place.
• Bugs: The humidity and marshy environment mean insects (especially gnats and mosquitoes) are a prominent feature of life.

Local Vibe & Culture Hinesville is the definition of a military town; its identity and economy are completely intertwined with Fort Stewart, making it an incredibly supportive community. The broader culture is distinctly Southern, characterized by friendliness, a slower pace of life, and a love for tradition. A major advantage of the area is a low cost of living, which is significantly below the national average. Your BAH will go much further here than in many other duty stations.

II. On-Base Housing & Amenities

On-Post Housing

• Provider: On-post housing is privatized and managed by Balfour Beatty Communities.
• Reputation & Condition: The housing inventory is a mix of old and new. Fort Stewart has seen a significant amount of new construction in recent years, so many neighborhoods feature modern, spacious homes that are highly desirable. Older, less-renovated housing still exists as well.
• Waitlist Times: During peak PCS season (summer), expect waitlists for the more popular and newly constructed housing areas. It is wise to contact the housing office and apply as soon as you have orders.

Amenities & Services

• Commissary & Exchange: Fort Stewart has a large, modern Post Exchange (PX) and a well-stocked Commissary to meet all your family's needs.
• Healthcare: Winn Army Community Hospital is the on-post medical facility providing primary and some specialty care for service members and their families.
• MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation): MWR is heavily focused on the outdoors. The Holbrook Pond Recreation Area offers camping, fishing, and boating. The hunting and fishing programs on Fort Stewart's vast training lands are extremely popular. The base also features the 18-hole Taylors Creek Golf Course, multiple pools, and fitness centers.
• Spouse Support: The Army Community Service (ACS) provides a full range of support services, including spouse employment assistance and relocation resources.

III. Local Housing Market & Popular Neighborhoods (Off-Base)

Housing Market Overview The local housing market is one of the most affordable you are likely to find in the military. BAH is generally sufficient to rent a comfortable home or to purchase. A 3-bedroom rental typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,200.

Popular Neighborhoods for Military Families

1. Hinesville:
   • Character: The most convenient and popular choice, where the majority of off-post personnel live. It's a classic military town with all the basics.
   • Commute: 5-15 minutes.
   • Price Point: Low (very affordable).
   • Proximity: Excellent access to all post gates and amenities.
2. Richmond Hill:
   • Character: A highly desirable, more upscale suburban community located about halfway between the base and Savannah. It is famous for its top-rated school system.
   • Commute: 30-45 minutes (can be longer with traffic).
   • Price Point: High (for the region).
   • Proximity: Offers a different lifestyle from Hinesville, with nicer amenities and a quicker drive to Savannah.
3. Savannah Suburbs (Pooler, Georgetown):
   • Character: For those who crave city life and amenities. Pooler is a rapidly growing hub of shopping and new construction. Savannah offers historic charm and culture.
   • Commute: 45-65 minutes (this is a major commitment).
   • Price Point: Moderate to High.

IV. Schools & Childcare

On-Post Schools Fort Stewart has DoDEA schools on post for students in grades Pre-K through 6. This is a significant benefit for families living on the installation. Students in grades 7-12 attend schools in the local community.

Off-Post Schools

• Primary Districts: The city of Hinesville is served by the Liberty County School System. The highly-sought-after schools in Richmond Hill are part of Bryan County Schools. Savannah is served by the Chatham County Public School System.
• School Ratings: School performance data can be found on the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) website.

Childcare

• On-Post: Multiple Child Development Centers (CDCs) are located on post. As with nearly all installations, waitlists can be long. Register via MilitaryChildCare.com immediately upon receiving orders.
• Off-Base: Childcare options are available in Hinesville and the surrounding communities and are generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas.

V. Things to Do, Pro-Tips & Weekend Trips

Local Must-Dos

1. Explore Historic Savannah: Walk the cobblestone streets of River Street, picnic in Forsyth Park, take a ghost tour, and admire the 22 historic city squares.
2. Hit the Beach: Spend a day at Tybee Island, Savannah's quirky and fun-loving beach destination.
3. Visit the 3rd Infantry Division Museum: Learn about the storied history of the "Rock of the Marne" right on post.
4. Enjoy the Outdoors: Go fishing, kayaking, or boating in the beautiful coastal marshes and rivers.
5. Eat Lowcountry Cuisine: Find a local restaurant and try a Lowcountry boil, shrimp and grits, or fresh-caught seafood.

Insider Info & Pro-Tips

• Bug Spray is Essential: The gnats and mosquitoes are no joke, especially in the warmer months. Invest in a good repellent and use it liberally.
• Prepare for the Humidity: The summer humidity can be oppressive. High-quality A/C in your home and car is a must. Plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day.
• The Richmond Hill Commute: If you choose to live in Richmond Hill for the schools, be aware that the main route, GA-144, can get congested during peak hours.
• Hunter's Paradise: If you are a hunter or angler, this is a fantastic duty station. Explore the extensive on-post opportunities managed by MWR.

Weekend Trips

1. Charleston, SC (2 hours): Another gem of the South, Charleston offers incredible history, architecture, and a world-class culinary scene.
2. Hilton Head Island, SC (1.5 hours): A beautiful resort island known for its pristine beaches, bike paths, and championship golf courses.
3. Jacksonville, FL (2 hours): Head south to Florida for an NFL game (Jaguars), big-name concerts, and the beaches of the Atlantic coast.
4. Atlanta, GA (4 hours): A major American metropolis offering the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, professional sports, and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.