Michelle, You didn't mention what base you were relocating to? We have allot of military bases here and that will determine where you will want to live. I've lived in the MD/DC/VA area on and off for the past 6 years and I will say this BE PREPARED TO SPEND SOME MONEY ON HOUSING. I would suggest you and your husband seriously consider base housing as an alternative and get on any waiting lists now. Housing under $300k is extremely rare in so called "good neighborhoods". I was able to buy a house (4 bed/2.5 bath), not a townhome for $235k back in 2002 but when I went to sell it a year later the market had escalated tremendously and houses were no longer going for that price. And now those same homes are going for $450+. I had to move 30 miles out from my job in Arlington to Charles County, MD in order to find that house or any affordable housing. Now we live in VA and the average house price 35 miles west of DC is starting at $500k going to $700k. It all depends on what you need you mentioned you have a family of 5 so that means you will need some space for your boys. Townhouses are popular but I found having to live on several floors to be a bit of a drag and now they are becoming expensive and often times do not have a garage (depending on their age). If you happened to be stationed at Bolling or Andrews you will more than likely want to stay on the Maryland side and you will find more affordable housing in that area but it will be steep. Also be prepared for traffic, TRAFFIC IS NO JOKE IN THIS AREA! Make sure any place you decide on provides you with a commute you can live with. Traffic begins to hit at 5 a.m. to 9:30 a.m and 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Being near a Metro station is a plus but it will cost you - location, location, location. As for crime, it's all relative, this is a huge metropolitan area and you will see more crime here than probably where you are from but if you are careful and observant it shouldn't be a problem. I feel safe in this area and have not had any problems. As in all cities you avoid the crime ridden areas, especially after dark. You will find this area to be quite beautiful, full of diversity and the people are actually very friendly. If you are interested I have an acquaintance that I worked with at Weichert Realty that can help you she's licensed in VA and MD and she's very helpful. Have a happy new year and good luck on your PCS. Schatzel

I am So completely thankful for your posting. I would, however, appreciate it if I could contact you directly to ask you some more questions? Please email me directly Mary

January 10th , Dr. Wood will be talking about Life Style Changes after Surgery. It will be at 1800-1900 in SETD Building 5. Pass the word. (Balboa Naval Hospital)

Hi Candy, Scott AFB is in southwestern Illinois... or to be more exact, we're 15 minutes outside St. Louis, Mo (obviously on the Illinois side) We never get snow which is a real downer for a gal who hails from the desert of Nevada. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a colder (snowy) climate this go-around. Becca 218/155.5/130ish? 5'1"

I didn't even know this board existed! Just wanted to say HI and introduce myself. My name is Becca and as of today, I am 4 months out from surgery. I am considered a "lightweight", since I only have 80-100lbs to lose. I've lost 61.5 lbs thus far. I am a shorty, reaching only 5'1". My husband is active duty AF, stationed at Scott AFB. We are going on our third year here and I am ready for orders! I have that "itch" to move. New orders should come this Spring. Becca 218/156.5/130ish, maybe? 5'1"