Fort Benning
Fort Benning Relocation Information
Welcome to Fort Benning
Fort Benning is one of the Army’s biggest installations. It is more commonly known as the tagline, “Home of the Infantry,” as the base houses the United States Army Infantry Center and School.
There’s also a good chance that if a service member is stationed at Fort Benning, they’ll attend Basic Training, Airborne School, or have been assigned to the 75th Ranger Regiment. Each tenant has a strong presence at “Benning.”
Fort Benning, Columbus, Georgia, and Phenix City, Alabama, are known as the “Tri-Community.” Fort Benning straddles the Georgia and Alabama border. The Chattahoochee River divides Alabama and Georgia, significantly influencing the Fort Benning lifestyle—local and military families enjoy white water rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining over the river. Due to Fort Benning’s Central-Georgia location, the Panhandle region of Florida and Jacksonville, Florida, are popular destinations because of the military-affiliated installations in the region and as vacation destinations.
Limited duty tours, coupled with the short time spent at school programs such as basic training and Airborne school, regularly bring service members in and out.
Photo by U.S. Army
Moving to the Fort Benning area? Download your free ebook below!
Frequently Asked Questions about Fort Benning
1) What is Fort Benning known for?
Founded in 1918, Fort Benning is known for being the home of the U.S. Army Maneuver Center of Excellence, which includes the U.S. Army Infantry and Armor Schools.
2) Is Fort Benning the largest Army post?
Fort Benning is one of the largest Army bases in the world and one of the largest U.S. Army bases. This large Army post hosts over 70,000 Soldiers and civilians and covers over 284 square miles.
3) What units are stationed at Fort Benning?
Major units at Fort Benning include the 194th Armored Brigade, the 316th Cavalry Brigade, the 198th Infantry Brigade, and the 199th Infantry Brigade.
4) What are the nearest cities to Fort Benning?
Atlanta and Savannah in Georgia, Montgomery, Alabama, and Panama City Beach in Florida are all within a few hours’ drive of Fort Benning.
5) What is the zip code for Fort Benning?
Fort Benning's zip code is 31905. Other nearby zip codes include 31901, 31903, 31906, 31907, and 36856.
6) What is the BAH for Fort Benning?
BAH for Fort Moore ranges from $1,635 for E-1 to $2,121 for E-9 with dependents, and from $1,755 for O-1 to $2,487 for O-6 with dependents. See the BAH section for more info.
Base Location and Information
Fort Benning Address:
7117 Baltzell Avenue
Fort Benning, GA 31905
Nearby Military Installations :
Fort Benning is south of Columbus, GA, on U.S. Highway 27. The post covers nearly 182,000 acres of land, with 93% of the area in Georgia and 7% in Alabama. The Chattahoochee River divides Fort Benning between these two states. Phenix City, Fort Mitchell, Salem, and Smith's Station all lie on the Alabama side of the post, while Columbus, Fortson, and Cusseta are on the Georgia side.
Getting Around Fort Benning. Maps via Fort Benning MWR
Because of Fort Benning’s Central-Georgia location, the Panhandle region of Florida and Jacksonville, Florida, are popular destinations because of the military-affiliated installations in the region and as vacation destinations.
The Chattahoochee River significantly influences the Fort Benning lifestyle. Local and military families enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining on the river.
Some of Fort Benning’s military base neighbors include Robins AFB, MCLB Albany, Dobbins ARB, Fort Gillem, and Moody AFB, located in Georgia but are a hefty commute away. The closest installations, MCLB Albany and Robins AFB, are about a two-hour drive from Fort Benning. Dobbins AFB is slightly farther away, but also nearly two hours away in Atlanta.
Small-town charm mixed with a strong military is easy to get used to. Friendly locals are common, but so is the transient nature of the area’s military families.
Incoming families find that Fort Benning offers plenty to do, especially outside. Some favorites are the Chattahoochee River Walk and outdoor markets on the weekends. Festivals are popular most of the year and honor everything from heritage to innovation. For a small city, Columbus boasts a strong cultural scene, including an opera house and amphitheater.
Nearby locales do attract day-trivers and overnight adventure seekers. Touring Atlanta could fill a long weekend, and gorgeous white sand beaches in nearby Florida are perfect for spring or winter breaks.
Arrival Lodging
Base lodging and local hotels for initial lodging needs, see IHG Army Hotels to make reservations and get more information.
IHG Army Hotels
Gavin House
7211 Ingersoll St
Fort Benning, GA 31905
Front Desk (706) 689-0067
IHG Army Hotels
Abrams Hall
Building 1670, 7350 Ingersoll Road
Fort Benning, GA 31905
Front Desk (706) 689-0067
Marshall House and McIver Suites Lodging
Marshall House
7981 First Division Road
BLDG 791
Fort Benning, GA 31905
(706) 545-2063
McIver Suites
McIver Street
Fort Benning, GA 31905
(706) 545-2063
Fort Benning Housing
Image via the Villages of Benning
Military housing at Fort Benning is privatized. Housing consists of a variety of configurations throughout seven different communities. Community amenities include Village centers with game rooms, fitness centers, playgrounds and more. Housing at Fort Benning is managed by:
The Villages at Fort Benning
(888) 880-6530
Fax (706) 689-6939
Be sure to check in with the Fort Benning Housing Office.
Fort Benning Off-Post Housing
View Homes for sale and houses for rent near Fort Benning - Fort Benning Homes
The Fort Benning area offers several neighborhoods and areas that current military families enjoy. These areas tend to be a 20-30 minute drive from Fort Benning, and the commute usually begins or ends with backups at the gates.
Shopping amenities include big box stores, nationally known restaurants, and grocery stores. They are plentiful in proximity to the most desired neighborhoods. Home searchers will see mentions of neighborhoods such as Wrenwood, Bradley Park, Midland Springs, and North Columbus.
Base Search
City Search
Fort Benning BAH Information
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a U.S.-based allowance determined by geographic duty location, pay grade, and dependency status. It provides uniformed service members compensation based on housing costs in local civilian housing markets when government quarters are not provided. Learn more about your Basic Allowance for Housing.
Fort Benning is near Columbus, GA, and there are many options for buying or renting. Some sample Fort Benning BAH rates for zip code 31905:
- E-1 with dependents: $1,635
- E-1 without dependents: $1,362
- E-9 with dependents: $2,121
- E-9 without dependents: $1,842
- O-1 with dependents: $1,755
- O-1 without dependents: $1,554
- O-6 with dependents: $2,487
- O-6 without dependents: $2,034
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Area Weather and Climate
View of the Chattahoochee River via U.S. Dept. of the Interior
In this part of the country, you’ll find heat and humidity for much of the year. Because of the abundant moisture, mosquitoes are a nuisance or plague, depending on your natural attraction.
You’ll catch a break during winter. It's not uncommon to enjoy sunny, 60-degree days for stretches at a time. Spring is the rainy season, with March bringing more than its fair share of precipitation. Adventurers enjoy activities each month of the year: water sports in the summer and hiking and biking year-round.
Fall is a favorite, but it takes a while to reach Fort Benning!
Fort Benning Area Schools
Fort Benning is one of the few remaining CONUS bases under DODEA jurisdiction. Children residing on base attend school on Fort Benning for Pre-K through the 8th grade. After that, they move on to local county schools. There are five elementary schools and one middle school on Fort Benning.
Because the base encompasses counties in Georgia and Alabama, four school districts are options for high school: Muscogee County Schools, Chattahoochee County Schools, Russell County Schools, and Lee County Schools.
The area has multiple choices for private or homeschool education resources, including parochial affiliations.
Fort Benning schools on the installation include Dexter Elementary School, Faith Middle School, McBride Elementary School, Stowers Elementary School, Wilson Elementary School, E.A. White Elementary School, and Loyd Elementary School.
Muscogee County Schools were awarded a large grant (expiring 2021) to “provide direct services that increase the level of support for military dependent students' social-emotional well-being at ten targeted campuses.” Reach the Fort Benning School Support Officer here.
Support for Military and Families
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Image via USDA
Moving to the Fort Benning area? Here's what military spouse Betsy had to say:
Fort Benning was a friendly area to live in. There were so many things to do and great weather.
Due to its size, Fort Benning has many avenues for spouses to engage. Higher education is offered through college campuses on base and outside of the gates. Community colleges offer not only degrees but also classes for personal development or fun!
Job searches are limited by industry, and growth remains slow. Fort Benning and local school districts are two major employers, followed by healthcare and local government. Spouses can spend free time volunteering, as there are always organizations in need, such as the Ronald McDonald House. Civic clubs and spouse organizations round out opportunities beyond work and home life.
Check out some of these groups and resources:
Things To Do Near Fort Benning
If you are vacationing or PCSing to Fort Benning, you may run out of time before you run out of things to do. These destinations cater to history buffs, nature lovers, thrill seekers, and families looking for memorable experiences.
Here are some great attractions and activities to enjoy near Fort Benning, Georgia:
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National Infantry Museum -Take a detailed look at over 200 years of U.S. Army history, featuring exhibits and artifacts that provide an immersive experience.
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Chattahoochee RiverWalk - A scenic walking and biking trail along the Chattahoochee River.
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Blue Heron Adventure Park - Enjoy a thrilling experience with zip-lining and outdoor adventure activities.
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Coca-Cola Space Science Center - Explore interactive exhibits and learn about space science, perfect for enthusiasts and families.
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Market Days on Broadway - Visit this vibrant outdoor market for fresh produce, crafts, and unique finds.
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Whitewater Rafting - Experience urban whitewater rafting on the Chattahoochee River, home to the world's longest urban whitewater course.
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Springer Opera House - Catch plays, musicals, or live performances at this historic theater.
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Butts Mill Farm - A family-friendly spot with outdoor activities, petting zoos, and playgrounds.
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Museum of Wonder Drive-Thru - An artistic roadside attraction where you can see unique art without leaving your vehicle.
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Lakewood Park - A serene spot for picnics, relaxing, or fishing.
Links are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement.
More Fort Benning Area Info
Base Address:
7117 Baltzell Avenue
Fort Benning
,
31905-0000