Photo by AleksandarNakic from Getty Images Signature via Canva.com
In this article:
Last updated 2026
Not every PCS move involves relocating the entire family. Military members may receive short-term assignments involving schools or training that last several months to a year, while others are sent on unaccompanied tours or to locations where command sponsorship isn't available for dependents.
Other circumstances, such as waiting for a home to sell or minimizing the disruption of another move because of schooling, access to specialized medical care, or a military spouse’s job, can also make living apart temporarily the most practical choice.
Although the family may stay behind, the service member still has to navigate many of the same relocation tasks as any PCS, including finding suitable short-term housing near the new duty station. Here's what to know when searching for military short-term rentals.
Research Different Types of Rental Properties
Whether renting a room, an apartment, or military base housing, each choice comes with its own benefits and considerations.
1. In-Home Room for Rent or Apartment Rental
When hearing of someone renting a room or an apartment inside someone’s home, most people think of a young college kid or maybe a recent grad. It's commonly associated with a person with few belongings and even fewer responsibilities.
While an in-home rental can appeal to the type of people described above, it can also include those looking to save money, assume less responsibility, and avoid long-term commitment, all of which describe a geo-bachelor/ bachelorette (“geographical bachelor”).
A room for rent can also be a good option for those looking for a short-term commitment. The lease terms should be simple. There's no need to worry about home updates, yard maintenance, or moving large items such as a washer/dryer, living room, and dining room furniture.
But before committing to an in-home rental, comb through some of these details.
- Furnishings: A fully furnished rental is likely a must.
- Amenities: Which features are included in the rental? Utilities, internet, cable, and HVAC sit high on the priority list. What about the community? Are a pool, gym, golf course, or other amenities conveniently available?
- Storage: Geo-bachelors/bachelorettes don't need to store many things in terms of general household goods. However, military gear is a hefty burden and may take up more space than expected.
- Housemates: Are roommates okay? Are they not okay? More on this topic later.
- Rules: Pet policies, shared living spaces, curfews, use of alcohol, and allowance of guests written in the lease can help determine which rooms for rent are best.
Don't lose sight of the big picture. On the opposite side of the equation are often homeowners. These people are renting space to save or make money. And since it’s their space, they’re seeking a clean, mature, and quiet potential tenant. With clear rules about shared kitchens, bathrooms, and communal living spaces, these arrangements can work well.
2. On-Base Military Housing
Military housing can be a great temporary option as it gives the service member a short commute and also usually includes utilities in the monthly rent—eliminating the headache of setting up and canceling services.
However, a service member looking for military short-term rentals without any dependents will qualify for unaccompanied housing, which is often managed by the government rather than privatized.
Photo by annastills via Canva.com
Decide If You Want a Roommate
In geo-bachelor situations, the service member is often concerned with saving money because they're likely paying for the household they left behind and the temporary housing they're moving into. Finding a roommate, someone to split costs with, can be an attractive option.
For some, there’s no amount of money worth saving to warrant living with a stranger. For others, the more the merrier. While it can be an opportunity to keep finances on the road to success, this decision is personal and goes beyond the financial lens.
Unsure if a roommate is the right choice? Ask these four questions before committing.
- Does the space available accommodate two people?
- How would you feel about a stranger as a roommate?
- Are you comfortable crossing generations? For example, a 35-year-old dad might not hit it off with an energetic 18-year-old.
- Can you trust the other person in the rental alone if you have to travel or deploy?
An honest conversation with a potential roommate is the perfect place to start. From here, it's easier to determine if they're compatible. Proper expectations regarding pet policy, overnight guests, visitors, and shared spaces can help avoid tension down the road.
Roommates don’t always have to be strangers. Living with or renting from a family member is sometimes possible. But be mindful of the risks associated with living with family. Family members may feel entitled to more information, keep tabs on activities, and cross personal boundaries. Set expectations before moving into your geo-bachelor housing.
Practical Matters Regarding Roommates
The landlord should also be aware of any roommate arrangements. Lease terms are important to negotiate, particularly if one tenant leaves sooner than the other. The remaining roommate could find themselves in a straining financial situation.
So, the question is, how does one avoid tension from differing timelines?
- Find short-term military housing with a shorter lease (one that matches the unique timeline).
- Find a roommate also in the military.
- Be transparent with roommates about expected timelines. Give them a heads-up (or ask for notice) if there's a need to break the lease. They may need time to get another roommate lined up or to find another rental.
- Read through the lease. While a potential landlord may be understanding, it's important to know what's written in the lease and how they handle multiple renters.
What about the military clause?
It's important to understand that the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act permits breaking a lease for orders but doesn’t cover both roommates unless both tenants are on active duty with orders following an identical timeline. A military clause written into the lease is a topic to approach with your potential landlord.
Find Short-Term Rentals on MilitaryByOwner
Just as they can find single-family homes, service members also search for other short-term military housing near military installations, like a room for rent and apartment listings on MilitaryByOwner.
Follow these steps to expedite the search process:
- Highlight "rent."
- Enter your desired military installation, city, or zip code.
- When the search results populate, scroll over to "refine search."
- Click on "home type."
- If there are rooms for rent in that area, they will show under "room for rent."
What is the best temporary housing option for military members? Considering factors like lease terms, amenities, roommates, and storage needs will help short-term renters make a smart, comfortable choice.
Short-term orders can bring unique challenges, especially when it comes to finding flexible and affordable geo-bachelor housing. When you’re ready to start the search, MilitaryByOwner offers tools and filters to simplify the process.
_(1).jpg)
back to top