Meridian NAS
Naval Air Station Meridian Relocation Information
Photo by NAS Meridian Facebook
Welcome to NAS Meridian!
Located in the middle of the Magnolia State, Naval Air Station Meridian is home to Training Air Wing One, Training Squadron 9, Training Squadron 7, Naval Technical Training Center, Marine Aviation Training Support Squadron One, and the Regional Counterdrug Training Academy.
Nestled within the rolling hills of Mississippi, far from big cities, NAS Meridian centers around outdoor recreation. Here, you’ll find a community-driven MWR boasting of opportunites for adventure. You may find that you spend most of your free time hunting, fishing, golfing, shooting trap and skeet, swimming, camping, and unleashing your competitive side on an intramural sports team.
And don’t underestimate the value of a day or weekend trip to nearby Jackson, the capital of Mississippi. Attractions like the Jackson Zoological Park, the Mississippi Children's Museum, and historic sites make it a fun destination to explore.
Aviators in training fly the T-45c Goshawk while stationed at NAS Meridian.
Photo by Naval Air Station Meridian
Frequently Asked Questions About NAS Meridian
1) Is Meridian, Mississippi, a good place to live?
Determining whether Meridian is a good place to live largely depends on what you’re looking for. Are the job opportunities, attractions, and things to do nearby overflowing? No. But what you lose in the bustle of other cities you gain in a small-town lifestyle. It might take an adjustment period, but it shouldn’t be long before you enjoy the simpler things in life that at NAS Meridian offers.
2) What is there to do at NAS Meridian?
Without many attractions nearby, most people take to the great outdoors to find things to do. Horseback riding, hunting, fishing, swimming, and camping are all popular ways military families choose to spend their time at NAS Meridian.
Photo by Onasill ~ Bill on Flickr
3) What should I know before moving to Mississippi?
You should know that Mississippi is a southern state through and through. It’s defined by its people and deep-rooted history. The people are hospitable. And though you’ll find humid summers here, the Mississippi charm is more overwhelming.
4) What is Meridian, Mississippi, known for?
Meridian, Mississippi, is known for its role in the Civil War, as it was the site of a Confederate arsenal, a military hospital, a POW stockade, and more. Then, from 1890-1930, the town hit its golden age and became the leader of manufacturing — making it the largest city in Mississippi before becoming the town you know today.
5) What is the zip code for NAS Meridian?
The zip code for NAS Meridian is 39309. Nearby zip codes include 39326, 39335, and 39301.
6) What is the BAH for NAS Meridian?
BAH for NAS Meridian ranges from $1,059 for E-1 to $1,761 for E-9 with dependents, and from $1,212 for O-1 to $2,184 for O-7 with dependents. See housing section for more info.
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Base Location and Information
Images via NAS Meridian
Naval Air Station Meridian lies just fifteen miles northeast of downtown Meridian, MS, and east of the Mississippi-Alabama state line.
Though Meridian isn’t very large, it fosters that small-town charm that many find comforting. The state capital, Jackson, is about two hours to the west. Montgomery, Alabama, is about three hours to the east. And Pensacola, Florida, is about 3.5 hours southeast — making it the perfect spot for a weekend beach trip!
For military families looking to buy a home here, good news, as the cost of living is considerably low. Both the average price in homes to buy and rent are lower than the Mississippi state and national averages. Without many towns nearby, military families moving here choose to either live on base or make the town of Meridian their home, so you’ll likely find a strong sense of community among military families here.
Nearby military installations:
NAS Meridian doesn’t neighbor other military installations. However, there are several within driving distance:
Arrival Lodging
There is no lodging available on NAS Meridian however, there are a few options off base to consider:
Drury Inn & Suites
112 US-11
Meridian, MS 39301
Phone: (601) 483-5570
Tru by Hilton
519 Azalea Dr.
Meridian, MS 39301
Phone: (601) 531-4100
Hampton Inn
103 US-11 #80
Meridian, MS 39301
Phone: (601) 483-3000
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NAS Meridian Housing
Photo by Balfour Beatty Communities
Military housing at NAS Meridian is privatized and managed by Balfour Beatty Communities. Located on base, NAS Meridian Homes offers two pet-friendly, walkable communities that include playgrounds, a dog park, picnic areas, and quick access to base amenities.
Contact: (601) 679-7669
For additional questions and information, contact the Housing Service Center.
NAS Meridian Off-Base Housing
View homes for sale and houses for rent near NAS Meridian: NAS Meridian Homes
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Photo from Canva
Nearby cities include Meridian and Bailey. You can follow this link to expedite your search for a home to buy:
Use this link if you are looking for a house to rent:
NAS Meridian 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.
NAS Meridian is near Daleville and Lauderdale with many options to buy or rent. Some sample NAS Meridian BAH rates for zip code 39309:
- E-1 with dependents: $1,059
- E-1 without dependents: $834
- E-9 with dependents: $1,761
- E-9 without dependents: $1,320
- O-1 with dependents: $1,212
- O-1 without dependents: $948
- O-7 with dependents: $2,184
- O-7 without dependents: $1,689
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Area Weather & Climate
Image via formulaone Flickr
The central Mississippi climate is considered humid subtropical. That means that while you’ll face hot and muggy summer months (May to September), the winters will typically be mild, minus a few exceptional cold days. Due to its location, this region is vulnerable to a handful of natural disaster-type weather. You might witness tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, floods, droughts, and tropical cyclones (usually in the summer).
It’s important to be familiar with emergency protocols and have a plan in place should the weather turn ugly.
For more information, take a look at NAS Meridian’s Emergency Management page.
NAS Meridian Area Schools
School-age kids stationed at NAS Meridian fall under the Meridian Public School District.
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School Attendance Areas Image via Meridian Public School District
If you’re looking for a private school education for your children, Private School Review is a great tool to help you find the right fit for you and your family.
Families interested in homeschooling should follow the Mississippi Department of Education homeschool regulations. For any questions or concerns, contact the NAS Meridian School Liaison Office.
Support for Military and Families
Photo by Daiga Ellaby on Unsplash
The unemployment rate in Meridian is lower than the state and national average. Aside from NAS Meridian being the largest employer in the area, healthcare, and education are the top industries here.
There are numerous volunteer opportunities at places like:
United Way
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Hope Village for Children
Habitat for Humanity
Wesley House Community Center
Another great resource for military families stationed here at NAS Meridian MWR. With organized activities, youth centers, and recreation equipment rentals, there are plenty of resources available to pursue your family’s interests.
Some helpful links:
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More Area Info
Base Address:
405 Rosenbaum Ave
Meridian NAS
,
39309-5500