Military Relocation to Klamath Falls OR

Tips and Resources for a Smooth Transition to Klamath Falls Oregon

Military relocation is a process that can be both exciting and stressful, especially when moving to a new city.

Klamath Falls, Oregon, is a city that has become increasingly popular for military relocation due to its affordability, natural beauty, and military support.

Klamath Falls is located in the southern part of Oregon and is home to Kingsley Field Air National Guard Base.

The base is the primary employer in the area and provides a strong military community for those relocating. In addition, Klamath Falls is surrounded by natural beauty including the Cascade Mountains, Crater Lake National Park, and numerous lakes and rivers.

When relocating to Klamath Falls, military families can expect to find affordable housing options, a low cost of living, and a welcoming community. The city offers a variety of housing options including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes.

The military community is also supported by local organizations that provide resources and services to help with the transition.

Key Takeaways

• Klamath Falls is a popular destination for military relocation due to its affordability, natural beauty, and military support.

• Military families can expect to find affordable housing options and a low cost of living in Klamath Falls.

• The military community in Klamath Falls is supported by local organizations that provide resources and services to help with the transition.

Understanding Military Relocation

Basics of Permanent Change of Station (PCS)

Military relocation, also known as Permanent Change of Station (PCS), is a process that involves moving military personnel and their families from one duty station to another.

This can be within the same country or overseas. The relocation can be due to various reasons such as new assignments, promotions, or transfers.

PCS is a complex process that requires careful planning and coordination. The military provides resources and support to help military personnel and their families during the relocation process.

Military Relocation Assistance Programs

To assist military personnel and their families during the relocation process, the military offers various relocation assistance programs. These programs are designed to provide support and resources to ease the transition from one duty station to another.

Some of the relocation assistance programs include:

• Relocation counseling

• Financial assistance

• Temporary lodging

• Transportation of household goods

• Assistance with finding housing

• Employment assistance for military spouses

Timeline for Military Relocation

The timeline for military relocation can vary depending on various factors such as the destination, mode of transportation, and availability of housing.

Generally, military personnel are given a minimum of 90 days' notice before their PCS move.

The timeline for military relocation involves various steps such as:

• Preparing for the move

• Packing and shipping household goods

• Travel to the new duty station

• Finding housing at the new duty station

• Reporting to the new duty station

In conclusion, military relocation is a complex process that requires careful planning and coordination.

The military provides resources and support to help military personnel and their families during the relocation process.

By understanding the basics of PCS, military personnel and their families can make the relocation process smoother and less stressful.

Klamath Falls Overview

Geography and Climate

Klamath Falls is a city located in southern Oregon, United States. It is situated in the eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains and is surrounded by several natural attractions, including the Klamath Lake, the Klamath River, and the Lava Beds National Monument.

The city has a total area of 20.89 square miles, with a population of approximately 21,000 people. The climate in Klamath Falls is classified as a high desert climate, with hot summers and cold winters.

The city receives an average of 14 inches of precipitation per year, with most of it occurring during the winter months.

Local Economy and Employment

Klamath Falls has a diverse economy, with major industries including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and agriculture. The city is home to several large employers, including Sky Lakes Medical Center, Oregon Institute of Technology, and Jeld-Wen Windows and Doors.

The unemployment rate in Klamath Falls is currently 5.8%, which is slightly higher than the national average. However, the city has experienced steady job growth in recent years, with several new businesses and industries moving into the area.

Education and Schools

Klamath Falls has a strong education system, with several public and private schools serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The Klamath Falls City School District operates six elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school.

The Henley School District, which is located just outside the city limits, operates two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. In addition, the Oregon Institute of Technology, also known as Oregon Tech, is a public polytechnic university that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of fields.

Healthcare Facilities

Klamath Falls has several healthcare facilities that serve the local community. Sky Lakes Medical Center is the largest hospital in the area, with 176 beds and a staff of over 1,000 healthcare professionals.

The hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and cancer treatment. In addition, Klamath Open Door Family Practice is a community health center that provides primary care services to individuals and families in the area.

The center offers medical, dental, and behavioral health services, and accepts most forms of insurance.

Housing in Klamath Falls

Klamath Falls is home to Kingsley Field Air National Guard Base, which employs military personnel and their families.

As a result, housing in Klamath Falls is an important consideration for military families relocating to the area. This section will discuss on-base vs off-base living, finding a home, and real estate market trends in Klamath Falls.

On-Base vs Off-Base Living

Military personnel and their families have the option to live on-base or off-base when stationed at Kingsley Field. On-base housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities, and offers a variety of floor plans and amenities to suit different family sizes and needs.

Living on-base can be a convenient option for those who prefer to be close to work and have access to on-base facilities such as the commissary, exchange, and recreation areas.

Off-base living is also an option for military personnel and their families. Klamath Falls has a variety of housing options available, including apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes.

Living off-base can provide more privacy and flexibility, as well as access to a wider range of amenities and services in the surrounding community.

Finding a Home

When searching for a home in Klamath Falls, military families should consider factors such as location, price, and amenities.

Websites such as Zillow and Trulia can be useful resources for finding homes for sale or rent in the area, but you're already here with a local relocation expert. Contact me now to get started on your home search.

It is also recommended to work with a local real estate agent who is familiar with the Klamath Falls market and can provide guidance on the home buying or renting process.

Real Estate Market Trends

The real estate market in Klamath Falls is currently experiencing a seller's market, with low inventory and high demand driving up prices.

According to Zillow, the median home value in Klamath Falls is $248,000 as of March 2024. However, the market is expected to cool down in the coming months, with more homes becoming available for sale or rent.

Military families should stay informed about the local market trends and be prepared to act quickly when a suitable home becomes available.

Military Support and Community

Local Military Resources

Klamath Falls, OR has a strong military presence, with Kingsley Field Air National Guard Base being the primary installation in the area.

The base is home to the 173rd Fighter Wing of the Oregon Air National Guard and provides support to the local military community.

The base has a variety of resources available to military members and their families, including a commissary, exchange, and medical clinic.

In addition to the resources available on base, military families can also take advantage of the services provided by Military OneSource.

The relocation assistance program offered through Military OneSource provides expert assistance to military members and their families during the relocation process.

They can help with everything from finding housing to connecting with local schools and community resources.

Community Involvement and Support

The Klamath Falls community is known for its strong support of the military. The community has a variety of organizations and resources available to military members and their families.

The Klamath Basin Military Affairs Committee (K-BMAC) is a non-profit organization that works to support the military community in the area.

They provide a variety of services and resources to military members and their families, including financial assistance, counseling services, and community events.

The local chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is also active in the community. They provide support to veterans and their families, as well as support to the local military community. The VFW hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a Veterans Day parade and a Memorial Day ceremony.

Overall, the Klamath Falls community is a welcoming and supportive place for military members and their families. With a variety of resources and organizations available, military families can feel confident that they will have the support they need during their time in the area.

Relocation Logistics

Transportation and Moving Services

When it comes to military relocation to Klamath Falls, OR, transportation and moving services are essential. Fortunately, there are several reliable moving companies to choose from, such as Lile Relocation Services and Elite Relocation Services.

These companies offer a range of services, including packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking. They also provide various types of transportation, from trucks to air cargo, depending on the distance and urgency of the move.

Checklist for Relocation

To ensure a smooth and stress-free move, it is crucial to have a checklist for relocation. This checklist should include all the necessary tasks that need to be completed before, during, and after the move. Some of the essential tasks to include in the checklist are:

• Notify the military housing office of the move

• Notify the utility companies of the move

• Cancel or transfer subscriptions and services

• Arrange for pet transportation if applicable

• Obtain all necessary travel documents and visas

• Pack and label all items properly

• Verify the moving company's insurance coverage

Setting Up Utilities and Services

Setting up utilities and services is another critical aspect of military relocation to Klamath Falls, OR.

The main utility companies in the area are Pacific Power and Avista Utilities, which provide electricity and gas services. Other essential services to set up include internet, cable TV, and telephone services.

Some of the most popular providers in the area are Spectrum, AT&T, and Dish Network.

In conclusion, military relocation to Klamath Falls, OR, requires careful planning and organization.

By utilizing the services of reliable moving companies, creating a checklist for relocation, and setting up utilities and services, the move can be made as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Adjusting to Life in Klamath Falls

Moving to a new place can be a daunting experience, especially if it is a military relocation. However, Klamath Falls has a friendly and welcoming community that makes adjusting to life in the city a lot easier.

Here are some tips to help military personnel and their families transition to their new home.

Cultural Adaptation

Klamath Falls has a rich history and culture that military personnel and their families can explore.

The city has a variety of museums, art galleries, and cultural events that showcase its heritage. The Klamath County Museum, located in downtown Klamath Falls, is a great place to start.

The museum features exhibits on the region's history, including Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and the area's natural resources.

Military personnel and their families can also explore the city's diverse food scene.

Klamath Falls has a variety of restaurants that serve local and international cuisine. From Mexican to Italian, there is something for everyone.

Recreational Activities

Klamath Falls is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

The city is surrounded by mountains, lakes, and forests that offer a variety of recreational activities. Military personnel and their families can go hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing in the nearby mountains.

The city also has several parks and recreational areas where families can enjoy picnics, BBQs, and other outdoor activities.

Networking and Social Groups

Military personnel and their families can also connect with the local community by joining social groups and networking events.

The Klamath County Chamber of Commerce hosts regular events that bring together business leaders, community members, and military personnel.

The city also has several social groups, such as the Klamath Falls Newcomers Club, that help new residents connect with each other and the local community.

Overall, military personnel and their families can expect a smooth transition to life in Klamath Falls. With its friendly community, rich culture, and abundance of recreational activities, the city is a great place to call home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical costs associated with military relocation to Klamath Falls, OR?

The cost of military relocation to Klamath Falls, OR, varies depending on several factors, such as the distance of the move, size of the family, and the type of housing that the service member chooses.

The military provides relocation assistance to help cover the cost of moving, but it is important to budget for additional expenses such as temporary lodging, transportation, and utilities.

What amenities are available for military families at Kingsley Air Force Base?

Kingsley Air Force Base offers a wide range of amenities for military families, including a commissary, exchange, fitness center, swimming pool, and childcare center.

The base also has a family support center that provides counseling, education, and other services to support military families.

How does the cost of living in Klamath Falls compare to other military towns in Oregon?

The cost of living in Klamath Falls is generally lower than in other military towns in Oregon. According to one source, the cost of living in Klamath Falls is 14% lower than the national average.

This means that military families can enjoy a high quality of life in Klamath Falls without breaking the bank.

What should military personnel know about the housing market in Klamath Falls?

The housing market in Klamath Falls is generally affordable and offers a variety of options for military personnel.

The average home price in Klamath Falls is around $200,000, which is lower than the national average. Military personnel can also take advantage of the military housing office on base to find suitable housing options.

Are there educational services available for military dependents in Klamath Falls?

Klamath Falls has several schools that offer educational services for military dependents.

The Klamath Falls City School District and Klamath County School District offer quality education for students from kindergarten to 12th grade. Kingsley Air Force Base also has an education center that provides educational counseling, testing, and tuition assistance for service members and their families.

What recreational facilities and services does Kingsley Air Force Base offer to service members?

Kingsley Air Force Base offers a variety of recreational facilities and services for service members, including a golf course, bowling alley, outdoor recreation center, and theater.

The base also has a community center that hosts events and programs for service members and their families.