NAS PENSACOLA
NAVY
Pensacola, FL
United States
NAS PENSACOLA
NAVY
Pensacola, FL
United States
NAS Pensacola
Base Essentials
Welcome to Naval Air Station Pensacola, known as the "Cradle of Naval Aviation." NAS Pensacola serves as the launching point for the flight training of every naval aviator, naval flight officer, and enlisted aircrewman. NAS Pensacola employs more than 16,000 military and 7,400 civilian personnel. The base encompasses more than 8,400 acres of land: about 5,800 acres at NAS Pensacola proper and another 2,500 acres at other locations, including Corry Station, Saufley Field, and Outlying Landing Field Bronson. NAS Pensacola provides base operating support and quality of life services for all shore...
Base Details
Type
Naval Station
Branch
NAVY
Command
CNIC
Status
Active
Est.
1914
Acres
5,800
Active Duty
7,500
Civilian
5,000
Population
500,000
Economic Impact
$2.5 billion
NAS Pensacola History
Naval Air Station Pensacola in Florida, established in 1914, is known as the "Cradle of Naval Aviation." It is where naval aviation began and where it continues to train the next generation of naval aviators and flight officers through the Aviation Preflight Indoctrination program. The station is home to the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Blue Angels flight demonstration team's home base, and numerous training commands. Pensacola's historical significance and ongoing training mission make it one of the most important and iconic naval installations.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
Naval Education and Training Command
—
—
Naval Aviation Schools Command
—
—
Blue Angels Home Base
—
—
Historic Timeline
1914
Naval Aeronautic Station Established — "Cradle of Naval Aviation"
1918
World War I Naval Aviation Training Hub
1935
Naval Aviation Cadet Program Formalized
1945
Naval Air Basic Training Command Established
1954
Blue Angels Establish Pensacola as Home Base
—
View Key Moments
(5)
1914
Naval Aeronautic Station Established — "Cradle of Naval Aviation"
The U.S. Navy established the Naval Aeronautic Station at Pensacola, Florida, in January 1914 — the first naval air station in the United States. Pensacola earned its enduring title "Cradle of Naval Aviation" by training the Navy's first military aviators and developing the doctrinal and procedural foundations of American naval aviation.
1918
World War I Naval Aviation Training Hub
During World War I, NAS Pensacola became the primary center for training naval aviators and aviation mechanics, producing the pilots and aircrew who flew patrol, bombing, and observation missions over the Atlantic and with Allied forces in Europe.
1935
Naval Aviation Cadet Program Formalized
The Naval Aviation Cadet (NAVCAD) program was formally established at Pensacola, creating the systematic multi-stage training pipeline that would produce generations of naval aviators through rigorous flight training, academics, and military indoctrination. The NAVCAD program continues at Pensacola to this day.
1945
Naval Air Basic Training Command Established
The Naval Air Basic Training Command was established at NAS Pensacola in 1945, consolidating all phases of initial naval aviation training under a unified command. The reorganization strengthened Pensacola's role as the gateway for all Navy and Marine Corps aviators and contributed to the "Cradle of Naval Aviation" identity.
1954
Blue Angels Establish Pensacola as Home Base
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration team relocated their home base to Naval Air Station Pensacola in 1954, establishing the enduring bond between America's premier naval aerobatic team and the "Cradle of Naval Aviation." The Blue Angels continue to call Pensacola home, performing their winter training there each year.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for NAS Pensacola.
NAS Pensacola Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for NAS Pensacola.
Gate hours can change suddenly during special exercises, holidays, and operational periods. We always recommend confirming details before you travel.
Latest News
Recent articles and updates from NAS Pensacola.
Information
Visit Pensacola for the 2024 Blue Angels Air Show!
Read
Entertainment Old
These Are the Blue Angels Pilots Leading the 2023 Show Season
Read
Information
Dive on In! The USS Massachusetts Is a Must for NAS Pensacola
Read
Information
Locals Want More Access Following the Pensacola Naval Base Shooting
Read
Information
Plan Your Visit to the NAS Pensacola Museum
Read
PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to NAS Pensacola.
Welcome center hours and contact details can change. We recommend confirming before you visit or call.
Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC)
Phone
(850) 452-5990Hours
Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
In-Processing
All permanent duty personnel report to the NAS Pensacola Quarterdeck in the Richardson Building (Building 1500) to have orders endorsed. If arriving Monday through Friday between 0700 and 1600, check in with the Personnel Support Office in Building 1500, Room 229. After-hours, weekend, and holiday arrivals report to the Officer of the Deck on the quarterdeck at (850) 452-4785. Arrive in the Uniform of the Day with orders in hand. NATTC personnel report to the Mega Building Quarterdeck at (850) 452-7300; CNATT operates 24/7 check-in at Building 3460, 2nd Deck.
After initial check-in, contact the Housing Service Center at 1581 Duncan Road, Building 735, (850) 452-5168, within the first few duty days — you must visit the HSC before signing any lease or purchase contract. A monthly Spouse Orientation is held at the FFSC in Building 625 for incoming military spouses; contact the Information and Referral Specialist at (850) 452-5990 to register. Make lodging reservations early during the Memorial Day through Labor Day peak tourist season.
The FFSC Relocation Assistance office at Building 625 ((850) 452-5990) provides Welcome Aboard packages, one-on-one relocation counseling, Smooth Move assistance, and financial planning consultations. A Loan Closet offers kitchen items on 30-day loan for PCS families setting up a household. Register in the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS) for disaster preparedness. The FFSC also offers employment assistance for military spouses, EFMP, and Family Advocacy Program. Email naspffsc@navy.mil to request a Welcome Aboard package digitally.
Trusted Base Intel. Since 1966.
Join 200,000+ personnel for base news, PCS tips, exclusive discounts, and critical benefits info.
Always free. Unsubscribe anytime.
Open PCS Entitlements Estimator
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
Download Full Base Guide PDF
Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
Trusted Base Intel. Since 1966.
Join 200,000+ personnel for base news, PCS tips, exclusive discounts, and critical benefits info.
Always free. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Housing & BAH
On-post housing, cost of living, and BAH info for NAS Pensacola.
On-post housing at Naval Air Station Pensacola is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities, which operates family neighborhoods on and near the installation along Florida's Gulf Coast in Escambia County, with 2- to 4-bedroom homes featuring modern amenities and access to playgrounds, community centers, and Pensacola Beach minutes away. Balfour Beatty provides 24/7 main…
Local Market
2026 BAH Calculator
Loading calculator...
View Full BAH Rates
Cost of Living Around NAS Pensacola
90
10% Below National Average
Housing
Calculate Your Buying Power
See what you can afford using your rank, BAH, and local market data.
Open Calculator
Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near NAS Pensacola.
School Liaison Officer
School Liaison Office
2
Elementary Schools
View schools
2
Middle Schools
View schools
4
High Schools
View schools
4
Colleges & Universities
View colleges
Education Resources
Notes, tuition & more
Education Benefits
Check Your GI Bill Eligibility
Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, and more.
Where To Live
Gulf Breeze
Suburban
Gulf Breeze is consistently the most popular community for NAS Pensacola families and sits on a peninsula between Pensacola Bay and Santa Rosa Sound, giving it exceptional water access from nearly every neighborhood. The school district is outstanding, crime is very low, and the overall quality of life is arguably the best near any Navy installation in the Southeast. The commute to NAS Pensacola via the Three Mile Bridge is quick.
Commute: 10–20 min
Gate: Main Gate (Navy Blvd)
Schools: Santa Rosa County School District
Families with kids
Dual military
Retirees
Outdoorsy types
National Naval Aviation Museum on base is world-class. Gulf Islands National Seashore access. Pensacola Beach is 10 min across the bridge. Santa Rosa County schools are among Florida's best. The water access and beach proximity make this a genuinely exceptional posting.
Navarre
Small Town
Navarre is a laid-back beach community east of NAS Pensacola that's become increasingly popular with military families who want a more relaxed coastal lifestyle at lower prices than Gulf Breeze. It sits along Santa Rosa Sound with some of Florida's most stunning white-sand beaches on the Gulf side. The community is primarily military and family-oriented with a quiet, low-key character.
Commute: 25–35 min
Gate: Main Gate (Navy Blvd)
Schools: Santa Rosa County School District
Families with kids
Outdoorsy types
Budget-friendly
Pet owners
Navarre Beach has been repeatedly voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the US. Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary for snorkeling. Eglin AFB's Blackwater River State Forest is close for hiking and tubing. Lower prices than Gulf Breeze for similar school district quality.
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at NAS Pensacola.
State Income Tax
None
Military Pay
No state income tax
Retirement Pay
No state income tax
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Military Pay Details
Florida has no state income tax. Active duty pay, military retirement, and SBP payments are all completely untaxed at th…
Spouse Income Tax
No state income tax means MSRRA has no practical effect. Military spouses owe zero Florida income tax on wages regardles…
Vehicle Registration
Nonresident service members stationed in Florida are not required to register their vehicles in Florida — SCRA home-stat…
Property Tax
Tiered exemptions by disability rating: 10%+ service-connected disability = up to $5,000 reduction; 100% permanently dis…
Pet Policies at NAS Pensacola
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at NAS Pensacola.
Emergency Vet
Coming soon
On-Base Vet Clinic
NAS Pensacola Veterinary Treatment Facility
Phone
(850) 505-6596Hours
Mon 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM; Tue–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Restricted Breeds
7
Prohibited Animals
12
Dog Parks
—
Boarding & Kennels
—
Pet Guidance
2
Max Pets
Leash Laws
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at NAS Pensacola.
Commissary
1
NAS Pensacola Commissary
Click2Go Available
Exchange
NEX
Mon–Sat 9am–6pm, Sun 10am–6pm
Medical
1
Naval Hospital Pensacola — Hospital
Childcare & Youth
CDC Available
MWR & Recreation
2
Fitness Center
Outdoor Rec
Employment & Education
3
Education Center
Spouse Employment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about NAS Pensacola.
01
Are any base gates open 24 hours?
4 of NAS Pensacola's 6 gates operate 24/7; others have restricted hours or access levels. See the Gates section for individual gate schedules.
Read answer
02
Is there a commissary on base?
Yes, NAS Pensacola Commissary is on-base and open to all authorized DoD ID card holders. Hours: Daily 8am–7pm.
Read answer
03
Is there a NEX on base?
Yes, NAS Pensacola has a NEX (Navy Exchange) offering tax-free shopping for authorized ID card holders. Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–6pm, Sun 10am–6pm.
Read answer
04
What is the base hospital or clinic?
Naval Hospital Pensacola is the primary military treatment hospital serving NAS Pensacola. Call (850) 505-6601 for appointments or the nurse advice line.
Read answer
05
Is there a childcare center on base?
Yes, NAS Pensacola has a Child Development Center (CDC) offering full-day and part-day programs. Waitlists fill quickly — register at MilitaryChildCare.com as soon as orders are received.
Read answer
06
Is there temporary lodging on base?
Yes, NAS Pensacola has on-post temporary lodging available for incoming PCS personnel and TDY visitors. Reserve early — spaces fill fast during peak PCS season (May through August).
Read answer
07
What school district serves the base?
Escambia County School District (rated C+) serves most military families at NAS Pensacola. Visit https://www.escambiaschools.org for enrollment info and the school finder tool.
Read answer
08
Are there pet breed restrictions on base?
Yes, on-base housing at NAS Pensacola restricts certain breeds including Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, and others. Contact the housing office or review your lease addendum for the full restricted breeds list.
Read answer
09
Is there a gym on base?
Yes, NAS Pensacola has a fitness center available free of charge to active-duty, Reserve, and retired members and their eligible family members. Contact MWR for current hours and locations.
Read answer
10
Is military pay taxed in Florida?
Florida has no state income tax, so military members at NAS Pensacola owe no state taxes on military pay, allowances, or retirement income.
Read answer
11
How do visitor passes work?
Visitors must be sponsored by someone with base access and should contact the installation's Visitor Control Center in advance with their government-issued ID and vehicle info. Day passes are issued at the gate; extended access may require additional coordination.
Read answer
12
What is BAH and how is it calculated?
BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) is a monthly stipend based on your pay grade, dependency status, and the duty station ZIP code — it is not counted as taxable income. Rates are updated each January; use the BAH Calculator in the Finance section to see current figures for NAS Pensacola.
Read answer
13
What should I do first after receiving PCS orders?
Contact the gaining installation's housing office and military transportation office (TMO/PPSO) immediately after orders are issued. Apply for on-base housing right away — waitlists at many installations run 6–18 months.
Read answer
14
Does TRICARE cover local providers?
TRICARE covers both the on-base military treatment facility and authorized civilian providers in the surrounding community. Use the provider finder at tricare.mil to confirm in-network options near NAS Pensacola.
Read answer
Question
More NAVY Installations
Explore other NAVY bases and installations.
HAWAII – PACOM
Aiea, HI
Hawaii – Navy
Honolulu, HI
NAB Coronado
Coronado, CA
NAF El Centro
El Centro, CA
NAS Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi, TX
NAS Fallon
Fallon, NV
NAS JRB Fort Worth
Fort Worth, TX
NAS JRB New Orleans
Belle Chasse, LA
NAS Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL
NAS Key West
Key West, FL
NAS Kingsville
Kingsville, TX
NAS Lemoore
Lemoore, CA
NAS Meridian
Meridian, MS
NAS Oceana
Virginia Beach, VA
NAS Patuxent River
Lexington Park, MD
NAS Whidbey Island
Oak Harbor, WA
NAS Whiting Field
Milton, FL
NAWS China Lake
Ridgecrest, CA
NB Kitsap
Silverdale, WA
NB Point Loma
San Diego, CA
NB Ventura County
Port Hueneme, CA
NRSW San Clemente Island
San Clemente Island, CA
NS Everett
Everett, WA
NS Great Lakes
North Chicago, IL
NS Mayport
Mayport, FL
NS Newport
Newport, RI
NS Norfolk
Norfolk, VA
NSA Annapolis
Annapolis, MD
NSA Bethesda
Bethesda, MD
NSA Mechanicsburg
Mechanicsburg, PA
NSA Mid-South
Millington, TN
NSA Orlando
Orlando, FL
NSA Panama City
Panama City, FL
NSA Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA
NSA Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs, NY
NSA Washington
Washington, DC
NSB Kings Bay
Kings Bay, GA
NSB New London
Groton, CT
NSF Indian Head
Indian Head, MD
NWS Earle
Colts Neck, NJ
Naval Base San Diego
San Diego, CA
Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport
Gulfport, MS
Navy Region Southwest
San Diego, CA
North Island NAS
Coronado, CA
Philadelphia Navy Yard
Philadelphia, PA
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Kittery, ME
Data & Methodology
How we source this −
Information is compiled from DoD publications, official installation websites, and reviewed by military personnel. Independent publication — not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense.