Groton Naval Base Housing: Your Guide to On-Base and Off-Base Living

The U.S. Naval Submarine Base New London, more commonly known as Groton Naval Base, is a vibrant community nestled in Groton, Connecticut. It's a hub of naval activity, drawing personnel from across the country and attracting families seeking a stable, secure lifestyle. If you're considering a posting or relocation to Groton, understanding the options for housing is paramount. This guide explores the ins and outs of Groton Naval Base housing, both on-base and off-base, to help you make an informed decision.

On-Base Housing at Groton Naval Base

For those seeking the convenience of on-base living, Groton Naval Base offers a variety of housing options designed to cater to the needs of active-duty personnel and their families.

Types of On-Base Housing

Unaccompanied Housing: For single Sailors, the base provides barracks with comfortable living spaces, shared amenities, and a sense of camaraderie. Family Housing: Groton Naval Base offers a selection of family housing units, ranging from townhomes and apartments to single-family homes. These units are designed to accommodate families of various sizes and come equipped with modern amenities.Guest Quarters: For temporary stays or visits, the base also has guest quarters, which provide a comfortable and affordable alternative to off-base hotels.

Benefits of On-Base Housing

Convenience: On-base housing offers a streamlined living experience, eliminating the daily commute and providing easy access to base amenities like commissaries, exchanges, and recreational facilities.Security: Living on-base ensures a high level of security and a safe environment for families, particularly those with young children.Community: On-base housing fosters a strong sense of community among service members and their families, creating opportunities for social interaction and support networks.Affordability: In comparison to off-base rental rates, on-base housing is often more affordable, offering significant financial advantages for military families.

Applying for On-Base Housing

To apply for on-base housing at Groton Naval Base, you'll need to contact the base's Housing Office. They can provide you with the necessary application forms and guide you through the process. You'll need to provide documentation such as your orders, military ID, and income verification. The Housing Office will then assess your needs and prioritize your application based on factors such as family size, rank, and length of service.

Off-Base Housing Options in Groton

For those seeking more autonomy and a wider range of housing options, Groton offers a vibrant off-base housing market.

Neighborhoods and Housing Styles

Groton: The town of Groton itself boasts a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, providing a range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets.Mystic: Located just a short drive from Groton, Mystic offers a picturesque waterfront setting with charming historic homes, modern apartments, and a variety of housing options to explore.Stonington: Stonington provides a mix of suburban and rural living, with access to beaches, parks, and a close-knit community.New London: New London, a larger city located near Groton, offers a wider range of housing options, from historic brownstones to modern high-rises, providing greater diversity in styles and amenities.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Off-Base Housing

Commute: The proximity of your chosen housing to Groton Naval Base is a major consideration, as it will impact your daily commute time. Schools: If you have children, it's essential to research the quality of local schools in your preferred neighborhoods.Amenities: Consider the amenities offered in each neighborhood, such as parks, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. Budget: Evaluate your budget carefully, taking into account rental rates, property taxes, and the cost of living in Groton.

Understanding the Groton Housing Market

To navigate the Groton housing market successfully, it's helpful to understand the factors that influence housing costs and availability.

Factors Influencing Housing Costs

Location: Proximity to the base, desirable neighborhoods, and access to amenities all contribute to variations in rental and purchase prices.Housing Type: Single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments will naturally have different price points. Size and Amenities: Larger units and homes with more amenities, such as pools, gyms, or garages, generally command higher prices.

Housing Availability

Peak Season: The housing market in Groton is often more competitive during peak seasons, such as the summer months when many new military families arrive. Housing Market Trends: Keep an eye on local real estate trends to understand current market conditions and demand.

Additional Resources for Groton Naval Base Housing

Housing Office at Groton Naval Base: The Housing Office is your primary source of information on on-base housing options, application procedures, and policies.Military Housing Office : The MHO provides comprehensive resources for finding both on-base and off-base housing, including property listings, neighborhood information, and relocation assistance.Local Real Estate Agents: Local real estate agents can provide expert guidance on the Groton housing market, assist you in finding suitable properties, and negotiate purchase or rental agreements.Online Resources: Websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia offer extensive listings of homes and apartments for sale and rent in Groton and surrounding areas.

Living and Working at Groton Naval Base

While housing is a significant aspect of your Groton Naval Base experience, there are numerous other factors to consider when making a decision to relocate.

Groton Naval Base Jobs

Groton Naval Base serves as a major employer in the region, offering a variety of career opportunities across various departments. Submarine Operations: The base is home to the U.S. Navy's submarine force, offering jobs related to submarine operations, maintenance, and engineering.Support Services: The base also employs personnel in support services roles, such as logistics, administration, medical services, and security.Civilian Contractors: Many civilian contractors work on the base, providing specialized services for construction, maintenance, and other projects.

Community and Amenities at Groton Naval Base

Groton Naval Base offers a thriving community with a wide range of amenities to enhance the quality of life for service members and their families.Base Exchange: The base exchange offers a wide selection of goods and services, including groceries, clothing, electronics, and more.Commissary: The commissary provides discounted groceries and household items for active-duty personnel and their families.Recreation Facilities: Groton Naval Base boasts a variety of recreational facilities, including fitness centers, swimming pools, sports fields, and playgrounds.Child Development Centers: On-base childcare facilities provide quality care for children of active-duty personnel.Medical Services: The base has a medical clinic offering primary care, dental care, and other healthcare services.

Things to Do in Groton and Surrounding Areas

Groton and the surrounding area offer a wealth of attractions and activities for families, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts.Mystic Aquarium: A renowned aquarium featuring marine life exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs. Mystic Seaport: A living history museum dedicated to preserving the maritime heritage of New England.The Submarine Force Library and Museum: Explore the history of the submarine force and learn about the role of submarines in naval warfare.Waterfront Parks: Groton and Mystic offer picturesque waterfront parks with walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking.Shopping and Dining: The area is home to a variety of shopping centers, boutiques, and restaurants, offering diverse dining options and retail experiences.

Living Costs in Groton

The cost of living in Groton is relatively high compared to other parts of the country, but it is still affordable for military families with access to base amenities and discounts. Housing: Rental and home purchase prices in Groton can be relatively high, particularly in desirable neighborhoods.Utilities: Utility costs in Groton are generally in line with national averages. Transportation: Groton is well-connected by public transportation, and owning a car is not always essential for getting around.Groceries: Groceries can be relatively expensive, but the base commissary offers significant discounts.

Choosing the Right Housing Option for Your Needs

The decision of whether to live on or off base at Groton Naval Base is a personal one that should be based on your individual needs, preferences, and financial situation.On-Base Housing: If you value convenience, security, and a close-knit community, on-base housing can be a great option.Off-Base Housing: If you prefer more autonomy, a wider range of housing options, and potentially lower housing costs, off-base housing might be a better choice.

Conclusion

Groton Naval Base offers a diverse range of housing options, from comfortable barracks to spacious family homes. Whether you choose to live on-base or off-base, Groton provides a welcoming community, access to valuable amenities, and a strong sense of belonging. By carefully considering your needs, researching housing options, and utilizing available resources, you can find the perfect place to call home in Groton, Connecticut.