Everything military families need to know about PCS moves to Camp Pendleton, MCAS Miramar, Naval Base San Diego, and NAS Coronado. From base housing to the best off-base neighborhoods, written by a San Diego moving company that has been helping military families since 1997.
By Discount Movers · Updated May 2025 · 10 min read
San Diego Military Installations
San Diego County is home to one of the largest concentrations of military installations in the country. Here is what you need to know about each.
The largest Marine Corps base on the West Coast, covering 125,000 acres along the North County San Diego coast between Oceanside and San Clemente. Home to the 1st Marine Division, the Marine Raider Regiment, and numerous other commands. The nearest off-base communities are Oceanside, Vista, and Carlsbad. San Clemente in Orange County is also popular for its beach lifestyle and short commute through the base.
Marine Corps Air Station Miramar is in the heart of San Diego, 10 miles north of downtown. Home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Popular off-base neighborhoods include Mira Mesa, Scripps Ranch, Tierrasanta, and Carmel Valley. Excellent schools throughout the area and quick access to beaches, shopping, and freeways.
The largest Naval surface fleet base on the West Coast, located in the Barrio Logan neighborhood of San Diego, just south of downtown. Home to dozens of ships and thousands of sailors. Popular off-base areas include National City, Chula Vista, Coronado, and the Barrio Logan and Sherman Heights neighborhoods.
Naval Air Station North Island on the Coronado Peninsula, home to West Coast aircraft carrier operations and the Naval Special Warfare Command (Navy SEALs). Coronado Island itself is a premier but expensive community. Many families live in Chula Vista, National City, or Imperial Beach for more affordable housing within easy commuting distance.
PPM / DITY Moves
A PPM (Personally Procured Move, formerly DITY) can put significant money back in your pocket. Here is how Discount Movers helps military families maximize their PPM reimbursement.
A PPM allows you to arrange your own move and receive a payment from the government based on what it would have cost for a government-arranged move. If you move for less than that amount, you keep the difference. Done right, many families profit from their move.
PPM moves require official weight tickets from a certified scale, both empty and full. Discount Movers can advise you on the nearest certified scales in San Diego and help you coordinate the weigh-in process properly.
We provide all necessary documentation including itemized receipts, weight certificates, and any additional paperwork required by your branch for PPM reimbursement. Keep copies of everything.
Military moves often come with very short notice. Discount Movers accommodates short-notice PCS orders. Call (858) 490-0155 as soon as you receive orders and we will do our best to get your date scheduled.
We can coordinate directly with base housing offices at Camp Pendleton, MCAS Miramar, NAS San Diego, and NAS Coronado for move-in scheduling, elevator reservations, and parking. Just provide your housing office contact and we will handle coordination.
We never charge a rush fee for last-minute military moves. Our rate is $109/hr regardless of how much notice you give. We understand that PCS orders do not always come with advance warning.
Best Neighborhoods
The closest city to Camp Pendleton's main gate. Affordable relative to San Diego proper, good schools, beach access, and a military-friendly community. Camp Pendleton Boulevard runs right through town making the commute simple.
A step up in cost but excellent schools, beautiful beaches, and a great quality of life. Many senior NCOs and officers live in Carlsbad. La Costa area is particularly popular with military families.
Right next to MCAS Miramar. Affordable, family-friendly, excellent Asian restaurants and markets, good schools, and quick freeway access throughout San Diego. Very popular with MCAS Miramar families.
One of San Diego's best family neighborhoods. Top-rated schools, safe streets, beautiful parks, and about 10 minutes from MCAS Miramar. More expensive than Mira Mesa but many families find it worth the cost.
South San Diego's largest city. Very affordable, rapidly improving, and convenient to both Naval Base San Diego and NAS Coronado. The western areas near the bay are particularly popular with Navy families.
Living on Coronado Island is the dream for many NAS Coronado families. Expensive, but the quality of life is extraordinary. The Village has excellent schools, a beautiful beach, and a tight-knit community.
PPM/DITY assistance available. No rush fee. CA PUC licensed. 4.9 stars. Family owned since 1997.
📞 Call (858) 490-0155Mon-Sun 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM · Available for short-notice PCS orders