Randolph AFB
Joint Base San Antonio- Randolph AFB Relocation Information
Photo from jbsa.mil
Welcome to JBSA-Randolph AFB
Randolph AFB is the headquarters for the Air Education and Training Command (AETC) and the Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC). It's known as "the Showplace of the Air Force" due to the Spanish Colonial Revival Style architecture on base. The lead agency for JBSA is the 502d Air Base Wing. The base operates parallel runways on either side of its main installation. Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph is a busy installation since it conducts continuous flight training operations at all hours.
The stated mission of AETC, the Air Force’s "First Command," is a responsibility for recruiting, technical training, flying training, and the continuing education of each generation of Airmen. AETC’s mission starts with the Air Force Recruiting Service. The Air Force Recruiting Service includes 24 enlisted squadrons, three health professions squadrons, and more than 1,200 recruiters assigned throughout the United States and overseas. Its goal is to engage and recruit the best and the brightest to serve in the U.S. Air Force.
AFPC is the Air Force's Human Resources division. It implements personnel, manpower, and services programs for nearly 330,000 active duty members and 150,000 civilian employees worldwide. AFPC also manages service programs for Airmen and families.
The 12th Flying Training Wing consists of three Flying Training Groups as well as a Maintenance Group:
- 12th Operations Group at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas
- 306th Flying Training Group at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado
- 479th Flying Training Group at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida
- 12th Maintenance Group
The 12th FTW is responsible for combat systems officer training, pilot instructor training, and remotely piloted aircraft pilot indoctrination and basic sensor operator qualification. The wing manages all airmanship programs for the U.S. Air Force Academy. It's the single screening point for all hopeful aviators to include pilots, RPA pilots, and CSOs.
The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron “Thunderbirds” fly over the Taj Mahal at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph. Photo from Staff Sgt. Cory Bush.
The San Antonio area is home to multiple military installations, including the Air Force’s Basic Training and the Army, Navy, and Air Force’s Medical Education and Training Campus. Due to the presence of multiple military installations, the large retiree population, and the overall friendliness of the military in the area, it's commonly referred to as “Military City USA.” It’s the seventh largest city in the country.
The South Texas area is a vibrant location, combining Old West and Hispanic cultures. Many people know it as the home of the Alamo, but San Antonio is also a destination city featuring attractions like SeaWorld and Fiesta Texas. There are big city amenities like fine dining, museums, and professional sports (like the San Antonio Spurs). The laid-back lifestyle of the southern U.S. makes San Antonio one of the top areas in the nation for military retirees to settle.
Relocating to JBSA-Randolph AFB? Download our free guide to the area below:
Frequently Asked Questions About JBSA - Randolph AFB
1) How far is Randolph from Lackland AFB?
The smaller of the two Air Force bases, Randolph is about 30 miles from JBSA-Lackland, which is located in the southwest area of San Antonio.
2) In what county is Randolph AFB located?
JBSA-Randolph is in Bexar County (pronounced “Bear”), Texas.
3) How many people are stationed at JBSA-Randolph AFB?
Randolph AFB is home to approximately 4,423 military members who have about 5,291 dependents. DoD and NAF civilians add to a total population of 15,492.
4) How many gates does Randolph AFB have?
Randolph AFB has five gates:
- Lindsey Gate
- Lindsey VVC
- West Gate
- South Gate/Commercial Gate
- East Gate
5) What is Randolph’s zip code?
The zip code for Randolph AFB is 78150. Nearby zip codes include 78148, 78154, and 78233.
6) What is the BAH for Randolph AFB?
BAH for Randolph AFB ranges from $1,728 for E-1 to $2,157 for E-9 with dependents and $1,905 for O-1 to $2,475 for O-6 with dependents. See the housing section for more info.
Base Location and Information
Base address:
5th St E
Randolph AFB, 78150-4537
Military Installations Near JBSA-Randolph
The second largest city in Texas, San Antonio, is home to the three installations comprising Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA): Lackland AFB, Randolph AFB, and Fort Sam Houston. Though now considered a combined base, and the largest one in the DOD, the installations of Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) are spread out across the city. Most residents continue to call them by their individual names. The Air Force is the lead agency for Joint Base San Antonio.
Not far from the active flight line at Randolph AFB is the unique wing headquarters building nicknamed "The Taj," as in Taj Mahal. Elements of Spanish Colonial charm influence the architecture around base. The atmosphere differs from the usual standard-issue military buildings.
Randolph AFB is located on the far northeastern section of Universal City. The cities of New Braunfels, Converse, Schertz, and Cibolo surround the base. San Antonio is about 18 miles southwest of the base. Downtown San Antonio is navigable on foot, and it also has a streetcar system that runs on several routes. Public transportation is available via bus, the VIA Metropolitan Transit System. However, most area commuters travel by POV. The area is crisscrossed by highways I-35, I-37, US Hwy 281, and I-10. Concentric highways that circle the city are often referred to as the “inner loop,” I-410, and the “outer loop,” state highway 1604. With the frequent construction and rush hour, there's considerable traffic in this area.
Within just a few hours’ drive lie other military bases:
Arrival Lodging
The Randolph Inn handles temporary lodging for Randolph AFB. In addition to basic amenities, the Inn offers convenience to both base and nearby attractions.
Contact information:
Reservations
Main: (210) 652-1844
DSN: 487-1844
DSN Fax: 487-2616
Email: [email protected]
Address
JBSA - Randolph
415 B St. East
Universal City, Texas, 78150-5000
JBSA- Randolph AFB Housing
Military housing at Joint Base San Antonio is privatized. Housing consists of three- and four-bedroom historic homes located within walking distance of many base services. Neighborhood amenities include a pool, golf course, and community center. Housing is provided by Hunt Military Communities.
Hunt Military Communities Randolph Family Housing Contact Info
Office: (830) 483-9900
Leasing Phone: (877) 494-9585
Address:
Randolph Family Housing
205 New B Street East
Universal City, TX 78148
Military Housing Office
Joint Base San Antonio - Randolph (JBSA-RND)
Phone: (210) 652-1840
Email: [email protected]
Address:
610 Harmon Drive
JBSA-Randolph, TX 78150
JBSA- Randolph AFB Off Base Housing
Even with the woes of freeway traffic, life in the suburbs may offer more home for less money in Texas. With no state income tax (and no tax placed on a military pension), investing in a home in the Lone Star is a good fit for some families. On the other hand, property taxes can be hefty.
Base Search
City Search
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.
Randolph AFB is near San Antonio. Some sample Randolph AFB BAH rates for zip code 78150:
- E-1 with dependents: $1,728
- E-1 without dependents: $1,359
- E-9 with dependents: $2,157
- E-9 without dependents: $1,977
- O-1 with dependents: $1,905
- O-1 without dependents: $1,584
- O-6 with dependents: $2,475
- O-6 without dependents: $2,103
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Area Weather & Climate
The San Antonio area is ideal for fans of warm weather. Mild year-round with a semi-tropical climate, the "hot months" are typically May through September, with the wetter season from April to October. There can be some colder days, and even freezing weather, during the winter months.
The area’s weather is affected by the northwestern Edwards Plateau and the southeastern Gulf Coastal Plains. Sunshine is the norm, with more than 60% of days clear or partly cloudy. Bluebonnet season is in the spring, and the state flower dots the sides of roadways and fields. Thunderstorms are common in the late spring and summer, and occasionally there's a rare sleet or ice storm during the winter.
JBSA- Randolph AFB Area Schools
Randolph Schools Independent School District (ISD) serves students living on base and students with an approved transfer request. Schools on base include an elementary, middle, and high school.
Connect with the JBSA-Randolph School Liaison Program.
The San Antonio area is vast and diverse, and the local schooling choices reflect that. The city’s public schools are administered by various San Antonio-area Independent School Districts. Learn more about these school districts, along with information about neighboring county and city school districts, at the Bexar County website.
The San Antonio ISD states, "The San Antonio-area Independent School Districts serve 340,238 students. Extracurricular clubs for all skill levels and interests, Advanced Placement, Dual Credit, Magnets, Trades, Special Needs, Fine Arts, and STEM are among the 173 academic and developmental choices that exist within the districts."
For private schools in the surrounding area, visit Private School Review. Families interested in homeschooling should follow the Texas state laws regarding homeschool regulations.
More school links:
Military and Family Support
For job seekers, area employment is strong in the construction, oil and gas production, and healthcare industries. Time at JBSA provides the opportunity to network with other military spouses at the many area events created for military family members.
More helpful links:
Things to Do Near Randolph AFB
Whether your idea of a good time is a stroll along the iconic River Walk with a stop for margaritas and tacos or a hike on one of the area's nature trails, activities abound year-round. Spring’s famous Fiesta, a 10-day salute to Spanish heritage, is a city signature event, with schools closing so students can participate. With the famous Hill Country north of the city and beaches just a few hours away.
For military families who enjoy spending time outdoors, San Antonio offers an extended version of summer weather. From Schlitterbahn Water Park to Schumacher Crossing swimming hole, San Antonio offers many water features. For the surf and sand of a beach, a short drive away is Corpus Christi Bay and Padre Island National Seashore. For more inland adventures, consider a weekend getaway to eclectic Austin or historic Fredericksburg.
JBSA Force Support Squadron (FSS) carries a calendar of events, Outdoor Recreation, and dining/entertainment.
San Antonio River Walk by DenisTagnney Jr from Getty Images Signature via Canva.com
- The River Walk is a 15-mile-long stretch with a beautiful spot to shop, dine, and stroll. Just below street level, it’s also the largest urban ecosystem in the U.S. In the downtown section, the King William District and the Alamo are also walkable. Take a riverboat cruise for a quick drop off at a different section of the river, or stay for a narrated cruise.
- San Antonio Dining has it all. There are options for BBQ, fine dining, steak, or an American eatery. In this area, the Mexican and Latin American food scene is like no other.
- Downtown area attractions include taking one of the City Sightseeing Double-Decker buses for quick transportation. Their tours cover Alamo Plaza, The Pearl, Spanish Governor's Palace, Cathedral, Theater District, Tower of the Americas, Mexican Market Square, King William Historic District, and more.
- The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park includes the Mission San Jose, Mission Espada, Mission San Juan and Mission Concepcion. Along with the Alamo, the park was named the first World Heritage Site in Texas by the United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO). These five Catholic missions were established in the 18th century by Spanish priests. Today, the missions (walled compounds encompassing a church and buildings where the priests and local Native Americans lived) are the largest concentration of Spanish colonial missions in North America.
- San Antonio Tours includes an array of options to help explore the city. Among these, there are bike tours, walking tours, helicopter tours, ghost tours, barwalks, and more.
- Confluence Park is open daily. The park is a gateway to hike, bike and paddling trails. It begins near the Blue Star Arts Complex and ends near Mission Espada.
- Texas Hill Country encompasses San Antonio, which is on the southern end. Visit Fredericksburg, Boerne, and New Braunfels for a taste of city/country life. Picturesque small towns combine with outdoor living for an unforgettable experience.
- The Japanese Tea Garden dates back to 1919. It has a lush year-round garden, shaded walkways, stone bridges, a waterfall, and ponds filled with koi fish. The garden’s entrance features a moon gate created by a renowned Mexican artist. It offers free admission.
- The Pearl is located north of downtown. Originally a former brewery, the Pearl is now a mixed-use space featuring dining, seasonal events, boutique shopping, green spaces, and an amphitheater. It’s also home to the third campus of the Culinary Institute of America.
- Natural Bridge Caverns offers guided tours of the underground caverns and spectacular formations. Visitors can pan for gems at the Discovery Village Mining Company. There's also the outdoor maze, Canopy Challenge ropes courses, and zip lines.
- SeaWorld San Antonio has interactive shows and exhibits, an immersive water park, and marine life encounters. It's located in northwest San Antonio.
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas is San Antonio’s largest, most popular theme park. It's located in the center of a retail, restaurant, and entertainment district. The theme park offers roller coasters, park rides, live entertainment, food, beverages, and more.
A few other attractions to visit include
- The Guenther House
- Ripley’s Believe it or Not!
- The Witte Museum
- The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum
- The Texas Ranger Museum
- The Empire Theatre
- The Magestic Theatre
- Aztec Theatre
- Briscoe Western Art Museum
- McNay Art Museum
- San Antonio African American Community Archive & Museum
- The historical Alamo
- Watch the local NBA team, the Spurs
Outdoor activities in the San Antonio area
- Tubing (floating down one of the area rivers) is a popular way of enjoying the water. Rent tubes, canoes, and river rafts to float down the Guadalupe, San Marcos, Comal, and Frio Rivers. Most vendors also provide shuttles to return floaters to their vehicles.
- Canyon Lake is an 8,230-acre lake that is one of the most scenic lakes in Texas. It has eight public parks with camping, fishing, swimming, scuba diving, picnicking, wildlife viewing, boating, and other water sports. JBSA Recreation Park at Canyon Lake is available year-round for military members and families.
- Hiking locations include Government Canyon State Natural Area, Lost Maples State Natural Area (especially in autumn), Pedernales Falls State Park, and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Find miles of hiking and biking trails, guided hikes, and rock climbing.
San Antonio Events
- San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo hosts 1.5 million visitors every year. Since 1949, it's one of the largest San Antonio annual events. Attend the carnival and then the Charreada. It's a unique blend of Mexican and Western culture.
- Fiesta San Antonio attendees should plan their schedule in advance. Even schools close for this yearly event. Attend one of the parades: Battle of Flowers, Fiesta Flambeau (the largest night parade in the country), and the Texas Cavaliers River Parade. Then attend a food event and watch local entertainment. Fiesta started in 1891 as a way to honor the heroes from the Battle of the Alamo. It is now the city’s largest party.
Easy day trips include:
- Austin
- Dallas-Fort Worth
- Fredericksburg (Hill Country)
- Corpus Christi
- Houston
More Area Info
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Base Address:
5th St E
Randolph AFB
,
78150-4537