NS NORFOLK
NAVY
Norfolk, VA
United States
NS NORFOLK
NAVY
Norfolk, VA
United States
NS Norfolk
Base Essentials
Welcome to Naval Station Norfolk, the base that supports the operational readiness of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. Naval Station Norfolk is home to the Navy’s largest concentration of naval forces. The station also hosts personnel from the Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard and supports joint missions as well. Naval Station Norfolk employs approximately 57,861 military members, 13,435 civilian personnel, and 5,438 contractors, according to the Fiscal Year 2018 Hampton Roads Economic Impact Report. Naval Station Norfolk is home to Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet; Command...
Base Details
Type
Naval Station
Branch
NAVY
Command
CNIC
Status
Active
Est.
1917
Acres
4,600
Active Duty
50,000
Civilian
18,000
Population
1,800,000
Economic Impact
$8.5 billion
NS Norfolk History
Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia is the world's largest naval station, established in 1917. It is homeport to aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, submarines, destroyers, and numerous other vessels of the Atlantic Fleet. The station supports the largest concentration of U.S. naval forces in the world and is adjacent to the major Navy commands and shipbuilding facilities of the Hampton Roads area. Norfolk is the hub of East Coast naval power and a critical national security asset.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
Commander Naval Forces Atlantic
—
—
Aircraft carrier and surface ship homeport
—
—
Carrier Strike Groups
—
—
Historic Timeline
1917
Naval Operating Base Founded on Jamestown Exposition Grounds
1941
NOB Becomes Atlantic Fleet's Wartime Headquarters
1953
Installation Officially Renamed Naval Station Norfolk
1999
Naval Air Station Norfolk Merged into a Single Command
2017
NS Norfolk Celebrates Its Centennial Anniversary
—
View Key Moments
(5)
1917
Naval Operating Base Founded on Jamestown Exposition Grounds
On June 28, 1917, President Woodrow Wilson set aside $2.8 million to purchase 474 acres of the former 1907 Jamestown Ter-Centennial Exposition site in Norfolk, Virginia, establishing the Naval Operating Base. Construction proceeded rapidly after U.S. entry into World War I, and by 1918 approximately 34,000 enlisted men were stationed there.
1941
NOB Becomes Atlantic Fleet's Wartime Headquarters
By 1941, as U.S. involvement in World War II loomed, Naval Station Norfolk dramatically expanded to serve as the operational headquarters of the Atlantic Fleet. Personnel counts surged from around 2,000 active military members in 1940 to over 40,000 by 1943, with the base directing escort and anti-submarine operations throughout the Battle of the Atlantic.
1953
Installation Officially Renamed Naval Station Norfolk
On January 1, 1953, the installation was officially renamed Naval Station Norfolk, retiring the Naval Operating Base designation it had carried since 1917. The renaming reflected the base's post-war evolution into a permanent, multi-mission installation rather than a wartime operating hub, and it had by this point become the primary home port of the Atlantic Fleet.
1999
Naval Air Station Norfolk Merged into a Single Command
On February 5, 1999, Naval Station Norfolk and the adjacent Naval Air Station Norfolk were consolidated into a single installation under a unified command, with the former NAS structure becoming NS Norfolk's Air Department and its airfield designated Chambers Field. The merger was driven by post-Cold War efficiencies and the Navy's broader Hampton Roads regionalization effort.
2017
NS Norfolk Celebrates Its Centennial Anniversary
On January 26, 2017, Naval Station Norfolk held its centennial celebration at the historic Pennsylvania House, one of the original buildings constructed for the 1907 Jamestown Exposition that still stands on base. The milestone marked 100 years of continuous operation as the world's largest naval station, home to 75 ships, 14 piers, and over 134 aircraft.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for NS Norfolk.
NS Norfolk Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for NS Norfolk.
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 NS Norfolk.
Military Discounts
3 Great Ways to Maximize Your Applebee’s Military Discount
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Military News
Introducing Captain Janet Days, Naval Station Norfolk’s 1st Black CO
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Entertainment Old
Explore Naval History With Victory Rover Norfolk Naval Base Tours
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Information
How the USNS Comfort Delivers Comfort & Healing Around the World
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Jobs
Military Sealift Command Provides Viable Careers for Veterans
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PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to NS Norfolk.
Welcome center hours and contact details can change. We recommend confirming before you visit or call.
Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC)
Phone
(757) 444-2102Hours
Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
In-Processing
Service members report to the Administrative Office on the first floor of Building N-26, 1530 Gilbert Street, Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM. After hours or on weekends, report to the Quarterdeck of Building N-26 to have orders stamped, then return to the Admin Office the next workday.
The Transient Personnel Unit (TPU) at Building J-50, 1683 Gilbert Street provides 24/7 check-in guidance at (757) 444-1640. In-processing takes several days and includes check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical. Service members should be in uniform throughout the in-processing period.
The FFSC offers PCS planning consultations, Smooth Move workshops, Overseas Transfer classes, and settling-in services including welcome programs and local area tours. Contact (757) 444-2102 for orientation dates.
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Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
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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 NS Norfolk.
On-post housing at Naval Station Norfolk is managed by Lincoln Military Housing, which operates family communities including Admiral's Cove and several other neighborhoods across the Hampton Roads area offering 2- to 4-bedroom homes. Lincoln provides an online portal for applications, maintenance requests, and resident communication, along with dedicated on-site res…
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Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near NS Norfolk.
School Liaison Officer
School Liaison Officer
1
Elementary Schools
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1
Middle Schools
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2
High Schools
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3
Colleges & Universities
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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
Virginia Beach
Suburban
Virginia Beach is the most sought-after destination for Norfolk-area military families, offering oceanfront living, excellent schools, low crime, and a vibrant social scene. The Kempsville and Great Neck areas are the sweet spots for Navy families — suburban, family-friendly, and within a manageable commute to NS Norfolk. BAH in Hampton Roads is among the highest in the country, making VA Beach achievable for most pay grades.
Commute: 20–30 min
Gate: Gate 5 (Hampton Blvd)
Schools: Virginia Beach City Public Schools
Families with kids
Outdoorsy types
Retirees
Dual military
Miles of oceanfront, First Landing State Park, and an outstanding dining and nightlife scene make VA Beach one of the best quality-of-life locations in the military. Great schools are a consistent draw for families.
Chesapeake
Suburban
Chesapeake offers a more affordable and quieter alternative to Virginia Beach with similarly strong schools and a suburban feel that works well for military families. The Great Bridge and Greenbrier areas are particularly popular — well-located relative to NS Norfolk with newer housing options. Chesapeake consistently ranks among the safest and most livable cities in Virginia.
Commute: 20–25 min
Gate: Gate 5 (Hampton Blvd)
Schools: Chesapeake Public Schools
Families with kids
Budget-friendly
Pet owners
Retirees
Chesapeake Arboretum, Northwest River Park, and numerous waterways make it great for outdoor families. Strong schools and lower cost vs. VA Beach make it the smart pick for families prioritizing value.
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at NS Norfolk.
State Income Tax
Has state income tax
Military Pay
Fully taxed
Retirement Pay
Partially exempt
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Military Pay Details
Virginia taxes active duty pay of Virginia residents (home of record = VA) at graduated rates up to 5.75%. Nonresident s…
Spouse Income Tax
Nonresident military spouses sharing the same domicile as a service member stationed in Virginia, or who have elected th…
Vehicle Registration
Nonresident active duty service members stationed in Virginia are exempt from local personal property tax on vehicles —…
Property Tax
100% totally and permanently disabled veterans (or surviving spouses) are exempt from real property taxes on their prima…
Pet Policies at NS Norfolk
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at NS Norfolk.
Emergency Vet
Coming soon
On-Base Vet Clinic
Naval Station Norfolk Veterinary Treatment Facility
Phone
(757) 953-0350Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Restricted Breeds
7
Prohibited Animals
11
Dog Parks
—
Boarding & Kennels
—
Pet Guidance
2
Max Pets
Leash Laws
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at NS Norfolk.
Commissary
1
Naval Station Norfolk Commissary
Click2Go Available
Exchange
NEX
Mon–Sat 9am–6pm
Medical
1
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth — 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 NS Norfolk.
01
Is there a commissary on base?
Yes, Naval Station Norfolk Commissary is on-base and open to all authorized DoD ID card holders. Call (757) 423-6070 for current hours.
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02
Is there a NEX on base?
Yes, NS Norfolk has a NEX (Navy Exchange) offering tax-free shopping for authorized ID card holders. Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–6pm.
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03
What is the base hospital or clinic?
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is the primary military treatment hospital serving NS Norfolk. Call (757) 953-5000 for appointments or the nurse advice line.
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04
Is there a childcare center on base?
Yes, NS Norfolk 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.
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05
Is there temporary lodging on base?
Yes, NS Norfolk 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).
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06
What school district serves the base?
Norfolk City Public Schools (rated C (Niche)) serves most military families at NS Norfolk. Visit npsk12.com for enrollment info and the school finder tool.
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07
Are there pet breed restrictions on base?
Yes, on-base housing at NS Norfolk 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.
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08
Is there a gym on base?
Yes, NS Norfolk 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.
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09
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.
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10
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 NS Norfolk.
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11
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.
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12
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 NS Norfolk.
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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.