Welcome to MCAS Miramar! Everything You Need to Know About Your New Duty Station

Welcome to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, the West Coast headquarters of Marine Corps aviation. Spanning over 15,000 acres of hilly desert, this base just north of San Diego, California, has a storied history. Once known as “Fighter Town USA,” the base was home to the Navy’s Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor program, more commonly known as Top Gun, from 1969 to 1996. Parts of the iconic film were even filmed there! The base was also used by NASA at one time for multiple space launches. After decades of use by the Navy and Air Force, Miramar returned to the Marine Corps in the late 1990s.

Now, MCAS Miramar is home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and supports over 21,000 active-duty service members, civilians, and contractors. It’s one of a constellation of military bases in San Diego, including Naval Base San Diego, Naval Base Coronado, Naval Air Station North Island, Naval Base Point Loma, Camp Pendleton, and Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. Read on to learn more about MCAS Miramar, from base facilities to the best places to live nearby and what families need to know about local schools and on-base childcare options.

Where Is Marine Corps Air Station Miramar?

Address:

Miramar Rd, San Diego, CA 92126

Procedures for Entering Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

Whether you’re coming to MCAS Miramar for AIT, a PCS, or just to visit, here is some information to help your arrival go smoothly.

Getting to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar is located on the California coast north of San Diego. The nearest major cities with airports are San Diego and Los Angeles.

San Diego

San Diego is the nearest major city to MCAS Miramar. It takes about 25 to 30 minutes to get to MCAS Miramar from downtown San Diego and the San Diego International Airport.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles and the Los Angeles International Airport are about 2.5 hours northwest of MCAS Miramar.

Santa Ana

A smaller regional airport, John Wayne Airport, is also available in Santa Ana, California, about 1.5 hours northwest along the coast from MCAS Miramar.

Gates & Hours of Operation

There are three entry points to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.

East Gate (Main Gate)

The East Gate is located off Interstate 15 on Miramar Way. The Visitor and Registration Center is located at this gate. The gate is open 24/7.

North Gate

The North Gate is located off of Miramar Road and is the best gate to access base housing. It’s open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

West Gate

The West Gate is located off of Miramar Road closest to the 805. It is generally closed except in special cases.

Want to Visit MCAS Miramar? Here’s How to Get Base Access

All visitors to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar who do not have a Common Access Card must obtain permission to enter the installation at the Visitor and Registration Center (VRC).

See the PMO Base Access web page for appropriate forms to fill out and a full list of acceptable IDs per the Installation Perimeter Access Control Policy.

MCAS Miramar Visitor and Registration Center (VRC)

Address: Building 6200, located at the East Gate, MCAS Miramar

Phone: (858) 307-1463

Hours: Weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 pm.

What ID Do You Need For Base Access?

If you do not have a Common Access Card, you may present one of a number of other identification documents to gain access to MCAS Miramar.

This includes: a REALID, DBids Card, Federal Personal Identity Verification Card, Veteran’s Health Identification Card, U.S. Passport or Passport Card, and others. See the Installation Perimeter Access Control Policy for a full list of acceptable identification documents.

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Facilities

As you get settled at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, there are a number of key base facilities you should become familiar with.

Regional Personnel Administration Center

Marines reporting to MCAS Miramar will report to their gaining command’s S-1, after which point they may or may not need to report to the Regional Personnel Administration Center (RPAC) for additional in-processing.

Address: Building 8380, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-4722

Hours: Weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Limited services from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.)

ID Card Center (DEERS/RAPIDS)

The ID Card Center provides enrollment in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (for benefits access), issues Common Access Cards (CAC) and ID cards for active, reserve and retired service members, service member families, and civilian and contractor employees.

Address: Building 2258, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-1421

Hours: Weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

San Diego Housing Services Center (HSC)

MCAS Miramar does not have its own independent housing services office. Instead, the San Diego Housing Services Center (HSC), located at Naval Station San Diego, provides support for service members aboard MCAS Miramar, whether they are seeking housing on or off base.

Address: Bldg. 3544, 2625 LeHardy St., Naval Base San Diego, San Diego, CA 92136

Phone: (619) 556-8443

Email: SanDiego_Housing@us.navy.mil

Hours: Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

MCAS Miramar Branch Health Clinic

Qualified personnel can access a variety of medical care including pharmacy services at the MCAS Miramar Branch Health Clinic.

Address: 2496 Bauer Road, San Diego, California 92126

Appointment Phone (Active Duty): (858) 307-4656

Appointment Phone (Dependents): (619) 532-8225

Hours: Weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Legal Assistance Services

Legal assistance services are available to service members stationed at MCAS Miramar for matters related to: divorce, citizenship and immigration, estate planning, and others. Notary services are also available. Appointments are generally necessary, though there are limited walk-in hours.

Address: Bldg. 6275, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-1656

Email: miramarlegalassist@usmc.mil

General (and Notary) Hours: Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Walk-In Hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Post Office

The MCAS Miramar Post Office offers standard postal services, such as purchasing stamps, money orders, mailing parcels, including express mail services, and post office box rental.

The Military Post Office, where post office boxes are provided for personnel living in the barracks, is co-located with the USPS location, though they have different phone numbers and hours of operation.

Address: Bldg. 2257, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, CA 92145

USPS Phone: (858) 307-4578

USPS Hours:

• Weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

MPO Phone: (858) 307-6058

MPO Hours:

• Monday - Tuesday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Thursday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Commissary

The MCAS Miramar Commissary provides grocery shopping with tax-free savings for military families.

Address: Bldg. 2661, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (610) 321-6367

Hours: Sunday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Exchange, Mini Marts, Gas, and Barbers

The MCAS Miramar Exchange is a one-stop shop for everything you might need from clothing to household goods, electronics, and more. A barber shop is also available at the main exchange.

Main Exchange Address: 45233 Antares Drive, Building 2660, San Diego, CA 92145

Main Exchange Phone: (858) 695-7288

Main Exchange Hours: Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

MCAS Miramar also has three Marine Mini Marts and three gas stations.

Flight Line Marine Mart (with Gas)

Address: 8650 Boyington Rd, Bldg. 8675, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 695-1001

Store Hours: Weekdays, 5:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Gas Hours: 24/7 for non-cash transactions

Gonsalves Marine Mart (with Gas)

Address: 2499 Gonsalves Way, Bldg. 2662, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 695-7300

Store Hours: Weekdays, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Gas Hours: 24/7 for non-cash transactions

Elrod Marine Mart (no Gas)

Address: 2499 Elrod Ave, Bldg. 2499, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 695-7315

Hours: Weekdays, 5 a.m. to 1- p.m., and Weekends, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

East Gate Gas Station (no Diesel)

Address: Bldg. 6214, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, CA 92145

Hours: 24/7 for credit card sales

MCCS provides a number of other services, from barber shops to dry cleaning, optometry, tailoring, and much more. See the MCCS website for a full list of available services, along with their locations and hours of operation.

Dining Facilities

Gonzalez Mess Hall provides meals for service members stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. Additional quick service and restaurant options are available on base, from local businesses to national chains you know and love.

Marine Corps Community Services at MCAS Miramar

Marine Corps Community Services offers a wide array of facilities and services to support Marines and their families stationed at MCAS Miramar. Visit the MCCS website for a full list of services, including counseling and prevention services, military family life services, educational opportunities, and more.

Library

The Base Library at MCAS Miramar offers much more than just books! With a library card, you can also access digital resources like e-books and audiobooks. Beyond borrowing materials, the library can also provide access to electronics and equipment like computers, 3D printers, and sewing machines, to name a few. If you’re looking for something to do on your off hours or to keep your kids busy, the library also offers programs for children and adults.

Not sure how to get a library card? It’s easy! Just stop by the library with your military or dependent ID.

Address: Bldg. 5305, Miramar Way, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-1261

Email: ombmiramarlibrary@usmc-mccs.org

Hours: Weekdays, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fitness Centers

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar has multiple fitness centers for service members looking to break a sweat!

Semper Fit Center

The Semper Fit Center offers a variety of group fitness classes, including spin classes, TRX, Zumba, mat Pilates, yoga, and others. It also houses the FS8 Reformer Pilates studio.

Address: 2002 Bauer Rd, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-4654

Hours:

• Monday - Thursday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday, 5 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Saturday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The Barn Fitness Center

The Barn Fitness Center offers a variety of standard fitness equipment, including free weights, flex machines, stationary bikes, treadmills, and more.

Address: 7115 Schilt Ave, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-6042

Hours: Weekdays, 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Or 24/7 for Active Duty, PMO, Fire, and DoD Civilians who have pre-registered their Common Access Cards)

Miramar Sports Complex

The Miramar Sports Complex is a next-level fitness and training facility with a huge variety of equipment, including treadmills, elliptical trainers, stationary and recumbent bikes, steppers, and a state-of-the-art collection of strength training equipment (i.e., Nautilus strength training circuit, Hammer Strength machines, Nautilus cable machines, a wide variety of free weights, and Olympic-style lifting equipment).

This facility is also home to the F45 Studio, a dedicated space for team-based high intensity interval training.

Address: 2471 Elrod Ave, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-4128

F45 Studio Email: ombmccsmiramarf45studio@usmc-mccs.org

Hours:

• Monday - Thursday, 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Friday, 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Warrior Athlete Readiness & Resilience Center (WARR Center)

The Warrior Athlete Readiness & Resilience Center (WARR Center) provides additional support for servicemembers based on leveraging and integrating capabilities across the Social, Spiritual, Mental, and Physical domains of fitness. Notable offerings include monthly nutrition and sleep briefs and tobacco/vape cessation by appointment.

Address: 2525 Bauer Rd, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-8776

Hours: Monday - Thursday, 5 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Friday, 5 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Active Duty Recreation Center

The Active Duty Recreation Center (ADRC) is the perfect place to go for service members looking for a relaxing place to hang out outside the barracks without having to go far. The ADRC arcade games, new and classic video gaming consoles, VR gaming rooms, a movie room, computer stations, a full kitchen and an outdoor recreation area!

Address: 5305 Miramar Way, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-6171

Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Movie Theater

Catch a movie on base at the Bob Hope Theater! Featuring recently released movies at discounted prices.

Address: 2242 Moore Ave, San Diego, CA 92126

Phone: (858) 307-4142

Hours: See website for current showtimes.

Golf Course

The MCAS Miramar Memorial Golf Course has hosted the prestigious Armed Forces Championship and boasts a regulation 18-hole golf course, expansive clubhouse, driving range practice facility, putting green, chipping green, and short game area. Golf clinics and lessons are also available for those looking to up their game.

Address: 3750 Anderson Ave, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-4155

Hours: Call for tee times.

Outdoor Recreation at MCAS Miramar

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar has lots of great options for outdoor recreation. From Mills Park, with its sports and exercise facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds, to the MCAS Miramar Fish Pond, where catch and release fishing is allowed.

Party Adventure Recreation Central (PARC) is the go-to place for outdoor recreation equipment rentals including everything from tables and chairs for your next BBQ to wetsuits and paddleboards for summer adventures and snowboards and skis in the wintertime.

Mills Park

Park Address: Bauer Rd, San Diego, CA 92126

Reservation Desk Address: Bldg. 2273, MCAS Miramar, San Diego, CA 92145

Reservation Desk Phone: (858) 307-4099

Reservation Desk Hours: Weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mills Park Pond

Address: See website for directions. Admin office located inside Party Adventure Recreation Central

Party Adventure Recreation Central (PARC)

Address: 2257 Elrod Ave, San Diego, CA 92126

Phone: (858) 307-4150

Hours: Weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pool

MCAS Miramar has one recreational swimming pool with lounge chairs, picnic tables, and locker rooms with showers. Swim lessons may also be available. It is a training facility first and foremost, so the pool may be closed for military use at any time.

Address: 2000 Bauer Rd., San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-4137

Hours: Check website for up-to-date information.

Sports

MCAS Miramar has many great opportunities for athletes to keep playing the sports they love at all levels! Whether you’re looking for youth leagues or want to play yourself, there’s something for everyone.

Adult Intramural Sports

The Adult Intramural Sports program gives Active Duty, their family members, and DoD civilians the opportunity to get involved with team sports on base with a variety of league offerings, including softball, basketball, football, soccer, hockey, volleyball, and tennis.

Participation in Adult Intramural Sports at MCAS Miramar is typically free.

Address: 2471 Bauer Rd, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-1202

Hours: Weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

All Marine-Sports

Elite Marine Athletes looking for more of a challenge need look no further than All-Marine Sports. This program gives Marines the opportunity to compete at a higher level in competitions like the Armed Forces Championships, National Championships, Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) Championships, and even the Olympics. Those interested must complete an application and a standard fitness test. Opportunities are also available for coaching.

Email: AllMarineSports@usmc-mccs.org

Youth Sports

MCAS Miramar also has plenty of opportunities for youth athletics! Youth Sports are open to all dependents of Active Duty, Reservists, Retired military, and DOD employed civilians associated with MCAS Miramar, ages 3-16 depending on the sport. League options include: tumbling, cheerleading, basketball, soccer, and flag football. Coaching opportunities are also available!

Address: 2700 Moore Ave., San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-6530

Email: OMBMiramarYouthSports@usmc-mccs.org

Hours: Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Friday, 1 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Auto Skills Center

The Auto Skills Center is your go-to location for anything vehicle maintenance on base, whether you want to do-it-yourself or get assistance from an expert.

Address: 6673 Miramar Ct, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-1215

Hours: Wednesday - Friday, 12 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday - Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Personal Financial Management

Know you need to start budgeting, but not sure where to start? Want to make your money work for you? Confused about retirement and savings options? The Personal Financial Management Program can help you answer these questions and more. The PFMP offers one-on-one financial counseling, resources, and programs to support you in achieving your financial goals. This does not include tax support services.

Address: 5305 Miramar Way, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-9802

Email: smbmiramarmccs.pfm@usmc.mil

Hours: Weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Family Support Services

MCCS also coordinates a number of family support services aboard Marine Corps

Air Station Miramar.

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)

The Exceptional Family Member Program supports military families with members who have special needs including, but not limited to, requiring any kind of specialty medical care or doctors and/or any type of educational support services for six months or more.

Address: 2525 Bauer Rd, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-4668

Email: smbmiramarmcas.efmp@usmc.mil

Hours: Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Family Advocacy Program

The Family Advocacy Program offers classes and workshops to support families and strengthen relationships. This includes New Parent Support programs and support for individuals experiencing domestic violence.

Address: 2274 Elrod Ave, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-6585

24/7 Domestic Violence Helpline: (858) 864-3408

Hours: Weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Families Over Coming Under Stress (FOCUS)

Families Over Coming Under Stress is a specialized program designed to support service members and their families in dealing with the challenges of military life. FOCUS training is confidential and tailored to individual couples and families.

Phone: (703) 784-0189

Email: TeleFOCUS@focusproject.org

Counseling Services

A variety of counseling services are available at MCAS Miramar, including behavior health classes, community counseling, military and family life counselors, substance misuse support, and more. See the MCCS Website for a full list of available services and how to access them.

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Housing

MCAS Miramar offers unaccompanied housing and privately managed military housing. Housing options are also available in several communities surrounding the air station.

Temporary Housing Options

Individuals and families seeking temporary accommodations during a PCS move can stay at one of three on-base accommodations. The Inn of the Corps Miramar and Marine Lodge Miramar are standard hotels. Big Bear Recreation Facility offers cabins and RV/camp sites for individuals with appropriate equipment.

Inn of the Corps Miramar

Address: 2515 Bauer Rd, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 271-7111

Pet-friendly? Limited number of pet-friendly rooms may be available, call to confirm availability and restrictions.

Navy Lodge Miramar

Address: 19920 Schilt Ave, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 338-1130

Pet-friendly? Up to two pets are generally permitted in any room. Call to confirm policy and restrictions.

Big Bear Recreation Facility

Address: 42499 Bristlecone Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Phone: (888) 409-7829

Pet-friendly? Yes

There are also several hotels off-base in nearby San Diego, some of which offer military discounts. Find out more about hotels that offer military discounts!

Unaccompanied Housing

The MCAS Miramar Barracks provides housing for only unaccompanied personnel E-1 to E-5 who are permanently assigned to the installation.

Miramar Barracks Support Center

Address: Building 5300 Kelso Rd, San Diego, CA 92145

Duty Phone (24/7): (858) 307-1027

Staff Hours: Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Family Housing

MCAS Miramar does not have its own independent housing services office. Instead, the San Diego Housing Services Center (HSC), located at Naval Station San Diego, provides support for service members aboard MCAS Miramar, whether they are seeking housing on or off base.

Address: Bldg. 3544, 2625 LeHardy St., Naval Base San Diego, San Diego, CA 92136

Phone: (619) 556-8443

Email: SanDiego_Housing@us.navy.mil

Hours: Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

On-Base Housing

There are three primary housing communities at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar:

• Miramar Townhomes (E1-E9 and O1-O3E)
• Miramar PQ (E1-E6)
• Miramar Milcon (E1-E9)

All military housing aboard MCB Quantico is managed privately by Liberty Military Housing.

Address: Bldg. 3544, 2625 LeHardy St., Naval Base San Diego, San Diego, CA 92136

Phone: (619) 556-8443

Hours: Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

On-Base Housing Pet Policy

Each home may have a maximum of two pets, subject to breed restrictions. Restricted breeds include: Pit Bull Terriers (American/English Staffordshire Bull Terrier), Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Chow Chows, and Canid/Wolf Hybrids or any mixes of those breeds. Owners will be asked to verify that their animal is not aggressive. For more information, contact the leasing office of Liberty Military Housing.

Off-Base Housing

Housing referral services are available through the Military Housing Office. Housing referral services include providing a list of approved and non-approved apartment complexes and mobile home parks or a list of currently available properties in the local area.

Military Preferred Living Areas

MCAS Miramar is located just north of downtown San Diego. There are plenty of fantastic neighborhood options in San Diego. Keep in mind that the closer to the coast you live, the more expensive things will be.

There are significant price jumps based solely on whether looking East or West of the I-5 freeway. Keeping housing costs in mind, some great San Diego neighborhoods are listed below, in addition to the nearby cities of La Mesa and El Cajon.

Mira Mesa, San Diego

Mira Mesa is a beautiful San Diego suburb with great local amenities, great schools, and access to nearby nature preservers. It is the nearest neighborhood to MCAS Miramar, located just north of base.

Median listing home price: $950,000

Median sold home price: $999,000

Median rental rate: $3,300 and $3,700

Drive time to main gate: 15 minutes

Del Cerro, San Diego

Del Cerro is a very nice suburb of San Diego. It’s safe, has good schools, beautiful views, and is still close to base.

Median listing home price: $650,000

Median sold home price: $600,000

Median rental rate: $3,000 to $3,500

Drive time to main gate: 20 minutes

City Heights, San Diego

This is a highly diverse and densely populated area, with more reasonably priced housing. It is close to lots of social amenities, and has good public transportation; however, the schools are not as competitive as others in the district.

Median listing home price: $865,000

Median sold home price: $800,000

Median rental rate: $1,600 to $2,500

Drive time to main gate: 20 minutes

La Mesa, California

La Mesa is a picturesque and highly walkable city east of San Diego. It’s got the perfect mix of small-town charm with access to big-city amenities. However, schools in this area are lower quality than nearby districts.

Median listing home price: $899,000

Median sold home price: $865,000

Median rental rate: $2,675

Drive time to main gate: 25 minutes

El Cajon, California

El Cajon is a small but richly diverse city with a thriving local food and cultural scene. However, schools in this area are generally lower quality than nearby districts.

Median listing home price: $785,000

Median sold home price: $735,000

Median rental rate: $2,225

Drive time to main gate: 25 minutes

Schools and Child Care

While there are no on-base schools, families with children at MCAS Miramar will have access to tons of great schools in the surrounding area. Students living in base housing will most likely attend schools in the San Diego Unified School District.

Those living off-base might also attend schools in the Poway Unified School District, La Mesa-Spring Valley School District, Cajon Valley Union District, or others. School districts detailed below are those serving the military-preferred living areas described above. For support in making the transition to a new school, reach out to the School Liaison for MCAS Miramar.

Email: smbmiramarmccs.4kids@usmc.mil

Phone: (858) 307-6633 / (858) 307-8625

San Diego Unified School District

The San Diego Unified School District is a massive district covering much of San Diego County, California. Over 95,000 students are enrolled across 198 schools in the district. It is in the top 25% of school districts in the state of California, according to Niche, and receives an A grade.

All schools in the northern part of the district, which are most likely to be utilized by students from MCAS Miramar, are rated B+ or higher. Notably, the San Diego Unified School District offers school choice, so students are not limited to the school they are zoned for based on housing location.

Additionally, San Diego Unified School District offers many specialty schools, including but not limited to: East Village, an early college high school that offers dual enrollment with San Diego City College; San Diego Metropolitan Regional & Technical (MET) high school; and the School of Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA) for grades 6-12.

Poway Unified School District

Compared to the San Diego Unified School District, the Poway Unified School District is considerably smaller, serving just under 35,000 students at 40 schools. Niche gives this district an A+ grade and ranks it 21st overall out of 466 school districts in the state of California.

Only one school in the entire district receives less than an A grade. The Poway Unified School District also offers some alternative schooling options, including early college dual enrollment, career and technical education, and more.

La Mesa-Spring Valley School District

La Mesa-Spring Valley School District serves the communities of La Mesa and Spring Valley. It is a smaller elementary district, meaning it only offers Pre-K to grade 8. It is lower ranked by Niche, receiving an overall grade of C+.

However, many of the schools in the northern part of the district, where the city of La Mesa is located, receive slightly higher grades (B to B+).

Cajon Valley Union School District

Cajon Valley Union School District serves the city of El Cajon and surrounding areas. This smaller district serves about 15,000 students in grades K-8 across 29 schools. This district is not as highly rated by Niche, with an overall C+ grade. Most of the schools in the district that receive a B grade or higher are located outside of El Cajon proper.

Public Charter Schools

There are more than 100 public charter schools operating in San Diego County, which families may want to consider for their children. The California Department of Education provides more information about California charter schools, as well as a school directory which can be filtered to list only charter schools in San Diego County or within specific school district boundaries for those who are interested.

The MCAS Miramar School Liaison can help you explore charter school options.

Private Schools

Additionally, there are more than 200 private schools operating in San Diego County, which might be a good fit for some families.

As with charter schools, the California Department of Education’s school directory can be filtered to list only private schools in San Diego County or within specific school district boundaries. The MCAS Miramar School Liaison can help you explore local private school options.

Child Care

For families with children who are not yet school-aged or who require child care for older children outside of school hours, MCAS Miramar has multiple support options.

Child Development Centers

There are two Child Development Centers (CDCs) on MCAS Miramar where you can enroll your child aged 6 weeks to five years old. CDCs provide a structured curriculum for your child that will support their development from infancy through their toddler years as they grow old enough to begin school.

Both MCAS Miramar CDCs are open from 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays.

Child Development Center 1: XL

Address: 2728 Gonsalves Avenue, Bldg. 2728, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-4300

Hours: Weekdays, 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Child Development Center 2: The M Center

Address: 9348 Gonsalves Ave., Bldg. 2729, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-7891

Hours: Weekdays, 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Family Child Care

If you are seeking a more flexible childcare option for children up to the age of 12, the Family Child Care program can match you with a qualified childcare professional to provide childcare services at your home. Check out MilitaryChildcare.com for more information.

School Age Care

The School Age Care program is intended for children ages 5-12 who are currently enrolled in school. This program provides before- and after-school care, as well as childcare during school breaks and summer camps.

On school days, the School Age Care Center is open from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. When school is out, it’s open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Address: 2700 Moore Ave., San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-4136

Hours:

• School Days: Weekdays, 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Non-School Days: Weekdays, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Teen Center

The Miramar Teen Center provides a safe space for teens aged 13-18 to enjoy before and after school or during school breaks. In addition to a game room, computer room, outdoor area, movie theater, and cafe space, the Teen Center provides a variety of clubs and recreational activities.

Address: 2700 Moore Ave., Bldg. 2700, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-4136

Hours:

• School Days: Weekdays, 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Non-School Days: Weekdays, 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Local Employment Assistance & Resources

Family Member Employment Assistance Program

The Family Member Employment Assistance Program provides support to spouses and dependent family members seeking career development and job search assistance.

Address: 5305 Miramar Way, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-6491

Email: smbmiramarmccs.trs@usmc.mil

Hours: Weekdays, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Local Employment Resources

CalJobs

A statewide organization providing robust support services for job seekers.

State of California

Official site for California state government positions.

San Diego County

Official job listings for the San Diego County municipal government.

City of San Diego

Official job listings for the City of San Diego.

City of La Mesa

Official job listings for the City of La Mesa.

City of El Cajon

Official job listings for the City of El Cajon.

San Diego Unified School District

See openings in San Diego Unified School District.

Poway Unified School District

See openings in Poway Unified School District.

La Mesa-Spring Valley School District

See openings in La Mesa-Spring Valley School District.

Sweetwater Union High School District

See openings in Sweetwater Union High School District.

Cajon Valley Union Elementary School District

See openings in Cajon Valley Union School District.

Grossmont Union High School District

See openings in Grossmont Union High School District.

Base Civilian Opportunities

Federal Jobs

Federal employment opportunities are available at MCAS Miramar and are open to both military-affiliated applicants and the public. These positions often provide competitive benefits and long-term stability.

Marine Corps Community Services

There are many opportunities available across a variety of offices and facilities within MCCS, including Marine Corps Exchanges. This includes positions in child and youth programs, food service, lodging, recreation facilities, fitness centers, and much more. Many of these positions offer more flexible employment terms, and spouses may apply for the Spouse Preference Program.

Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA)

More than just a typical grocery store job, DeCA offers a variety of possible career paths for its employees. If you are interested in employment opportunities at the Commissary, you must apply through USAJOBS.

Family Child Care

Find out more about how to become a Family Child Care provider.

Enjoy Your Time at MCAS Miramar

If you’re new to MCAS Miramar or getting ready to PCS, you are in for a fantastic few years.

MCAS Miramar has a lot to offer its community, from state-of-the-art on-base facilities to great housing and school options in the local area. With the sunny city of San Diego just outside the gates, there’s so much to appreciate off-base, too. Check out our MCAS Miramar things to do article if you’re looking for ways to spend your next day off!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I live on base without children?

Active-duty with dependents (spouses OR children) are permitted to live in base housing. For more information, contact the San Diego Housing Services Center (HSC).

Can I live on base if I'm not married?

Single Marines at the E-5 rank and below are required to live on base in assigned barracks.

Can I live with my pets on base?

Yes! Two pets are allowed per home in base housing, subject to breed restrictions. Pets must be properly registered with Liberty Military Housing. For more information regarding rules and restrictions, contact the leasing office directly.

Is there a veterinary clinic on base?

Yes, MCAS Miramar’s Veterinary Treatment Facility provides routine wellness checks, vaccinations, and minor sick call services right on base.

Address: 6360 Bauer Rd, Bldg. 6360, San Diego, CA 92145

Phone: (858) 307-6552

Hours: Weekdays, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.