PCS to Fayetteville: Everything You Need to Know

Receiving PCS orders to Fort Liberty (Fort Bragg) in Fayetteville, North Carolina? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for a smooth transition to one of the Army's most important installations.

Before You Arrive

Getting Your Orders

Once you receive your PCS orders, begin preparations immediately:

1. Contact the Gaining Unit: Reach out to your sponsor or gaining unit for specific check-in requirements
2. Schedule TMO Appointment: Coordinate your household goods shipment through the Transportation Management Office
3. Housing Search: Start researching neighborhoods and housing options (see our Military Housing guide)
4. School Research: If you have children, research Cumberland County Schools and register early
5. Childcare Waitlists: Register at MilitaryChildCare.com immediately - waitlists can be long

Important Contacts Before Arrival

• Inprocessing Center: 910-396-4250
• Housing Office: 910-396-0671
• Sponsor Program: Contact your gaining unit

Arrival and Check-In

Reception Company

All soldiers must check in with the Fort Liberty Reception Company upon arrival. The facility operates 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

Location: Building 1-1560, Gruber Road Phone: 910-396-4250 (DSN 312-236-4250)

Transportation from Airport

Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY) offers:

• Complimentary Airport Liaison shuttle to Reception
• Courtesy phone available to call 910-396-4244
• Taxi services available outside baggage claim

First Week Checklist

• [ ] Check in at Reception Company
• [ ] Obtain temporary lodging if needed
• [ ] Report to your gaining unit
• [ ] Complete in-processing appointments
• [ ] Obtain military ID cards for dependents
• [ ] Register vehicles on post
• [ ] Enroll in DEERS
• [ ] Set up bank accounts (USAA, Navy Federal, local banks available)

Housing Options

On-Post Housing

Fort Liberty offers family housing through Corvias Military Living:

• Various floor plans for different family sizes
• Utilities typically included
• Convenient location to work
• Waitlists may apply depending on rank and family size

Off-Post Communities

Popular areas for military families include:

Close to Post (5-15 minutes)

• Spring Lake
• Southern Pines (Moore County - excellent schools)
• Pinehurst

In Fayetteville (15-25 minutes)

• Haymount
• Westover Hills
• Jack Britt area
• Gray's Creek

Rental Market

• Apartments: $900-$1,500/month average
• Single-family homes: $1,200-$2,200/month
• BAH typically covers most housing costs

Schools and Education

Public Schools

Cumberland County Schools serves most of the Fayetteville area with:

• Over 85 schools
• Magnet programs available
• Military-connected student support programs

Moore County Schools (Southern Pines/Pinehurst):

• Highly rated district
• Popular with military families
• Longer commute to post

Private Schools

Several private school options exist in the area, including religious and secular institutions.

Higher Education

Military-friendly colleges nearby:

• Fayetteville State University
• Methodist University
• Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC)
• Campbell University (nearby)

Healthcare

Womack Army Medical Center

Primary military healthcare facility offering:

• Emergency care
• Primary care clinics
• Specialty services
• OB/GYN and pediatrics
• Pharmacy and lab services

TRICARE

Ensure your TRICARE enrollment is updated for the new region. Options include:

• TRICARE Prime (military facilities)
• TRICARE Select (civilian providers)

Civilian Healthcare

Fayetteville has numerous civilian healthcare options:

• Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (major regional hospital)
• Multiple urgent care facilities
• Specialty clinics throughout the area

Cost of Living

Fayetteville offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many military installations:

• Housing: Below national average
• Groceries: At or below national average
• Transportation: Lower fuel costs than many areas
• Utilities: Moderate costs, higher in summer for AC

BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) rates for Fort Liberty are competitive and typically cover most housing costs in the area.

Things to Know

Traffic Patterns

• Morning rush: 6:30-8:30 AM (especially gate traffic)
• Evening rush: 4:00-6:00 PM
• All American Freeway provides quick access to post
• Bragg Boulevard can be congested during peak hours

Gate Access

Multiple gates serve the installation:

• All American Gate (24/7)
• Yadkin Gate (limited hours)
• Reilly Gate (limited hours)
• Manchester Gate (limited hours)

Local Culture

Fayetteville is deeply connected to the military:

• Patriotic community events
• Military discounts widely available
• Understanding of deployment cycles
• Strong veteran community

Resources for Newcomers

Army Community Service (ACS)

• Newcomer's Orientation: 1st Tuesday monthly
• Financial readiness classes
• Employment assistance for spouses
• Family advocacy programs

MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation)

• Equipment checkout (camping, outdoor gear)
• Fitness centers
• ITT (discounted tickets)
• Recreation programs

Spouse and Family Programs

• Military Spouse Employment Program
• School Liaison Officers
• Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)
• Family Readiness Groups (FRG)

Final Tips

1. Join Facebook groups for Fort Liberty spouses and families
2. Attend Newcomer's Orientation for comprehensive information
3. Get a sponsor if one hasn't been assigned
4. Explore the area during your first few weeks
5. Connect with your FRG for unit-specific support

Welcome to Fort Liberty and the Fayetteville community!