Find comfortable TDY lodging and off-base housing near Hanscom Air Force Base with convenient access to Boston and surrounding Massachusetts communities.
Welcome to Hanscom Air Force Base
Hanscom Air Force Base is located in Massachusetts near Lexington and Bedford, just outside Boston. The base focuses on technology, research, and development supporting advanced defense systems.
What’s It Like Living There?
Living near Hanscom offers access to historic New England communities and the city of Boston. Many service members live in Bedford, Burlington, and surrounding towns where apartments and rental homes are available close to schools, restaurants, and public transportation.
The Climate: New England Seasons
Massachusetts experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant, while winters can bring snow and colder temperatures. Fall is particularly beautiful with colorful foliage across the region.
Why People Love Off-Base Rentals
Many military members choose off-base housing to enjoy New England neighborhoods and the culture of the Boston area while maintaining a manageable commute to the base.
Key Units of Hanscom Air Force Base
Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC)
Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC)Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC)
Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC)66th Air Base Group (host unit)
66th Air Base Group (host unit)Air Force Materiel Command
Air Force Materiel CommandBest Cities to Live Near Hanscom Air Force Base
Best Schools Near Hanscom Air Force Base
Hanscom Primary School
Elementary school serving military families living on and near the base.
Hanscom Middle School
Middle school providing academic programs and extracurricular activities.
Bedford High School
High school serving students from Hanscom Air Force Base families.
Health Care Near Hanscom Air Force Base
TRICARE Facility66th Medical Squadron – Hanscom AFB
Primary on-base medical clinic providing healthcare services to active-duty personnel, retirees, and military families stationed at Hanscom Air Force Base.
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HospitalWinchester Hospital
Community hospital offering emergency services and advanced medical care.
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ClinicMassachusetts General Hospital
Major Boston hospital providing world-class medical care and research.
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Healthcare Coverage
TRICARE Coverage
at Hanscom Air Force Base
Hanscom Air Force Base healthcare services are provided by the 66th Medical Squadron which offers primary care, pharmacy services, and referrals for active-duty personnel and military families through the TRICARE East network.
Tricare Prime
An HMO-style plan where you're assigned a Primary Care Manager. This is the most budget-friendly option, with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
Tricare Select
A PPO-style plan that gives you the flexibility to see any TRICARE-authorized provider—no referral needed. Perfect if you want more choice in your care.
Tricare for Life
Designed for beneficiaries with Medicare Parts A & B, this plan serves as wraparound coverage. It acts as a secondary payer to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Recreation & Leisure
Things to Do Around Hanscom Air Force Base
Outdoor / Nature~5 milesMinute Man National Historical Park
Historic park with walking trails and Revolutionary War landmarks.
Entertainment~6 milesBurlington Mall
Large shopping center with restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment.
Cultural / Educational~20 milesMuseum of Fine Arts Boston
World-renowned art museum featuring global collections and exhibitions.
Air Travel
Closest Airports to Hanscom Air Force Base
General aviation airport~1 mileHanscom Field Airport
Airport located directly next to Hanscom AFB used mainly for general aviation.
Major international airport~20 milesBoston Logan International Airport
Primary airport serving Boston with domestic and international flights.
Regional airport~50 milesManchester-Boston Regional Airport
Regional airport serving southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions
01What is Hanscom Air Force Base known for?
Hanscom AFB is known for supporting Air Force technology development and acquisition programs.
02Where is Hanscom Air Force Base located?
The base is located in Bedford, Massachusetts near Lexington and Burlington.
03What units operate at Hanscom Air Force Base?
The installation hosts the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center and other acquisition units.
04What is the closest airport to Hanscom Air Force Base?
The closest airport is Hanscom Field located next to the base.
05Can civilians live near Hanscom Air Force Base?
Yes, many military families live in nearby towns such as Lexington, Bedford, and Burlington.
