Family Concerns

When arriving at a new post, there are several family concerns that are involved. Most families consider housing, child care and schools at the top of the list. MacDill AFB and the surrounding communities offer a wide selection to choose from in meeting the needs of a growing military family.

The MacDill Inn is responsible for all temporary lodging assignments where the staff accepts advance reservations for people on temporary duty and PCS assignments. The staff will be prepared to answer any questions you may have about the facility.

There are ten pet-friendly Temporary Lodging Facilities (TLFs) available for an additional fee. Upon arrival, if you are given a non-availability statement, the Lodging office will provide you with a list of government contracted hotels.

Newcomers PCSing with family members may stay at the TLF for up to 30 days while searching or waiting for a house. Unaccompanied E-7s and above and unaccompanied officers may stay in the Visiting Officers Quarters (VOQ) for up to 30 days while making permanent housing arrangements. Unaccompanied E-6s and below may stay in the Visiting Airmen's Quarters (VAQ) for up to 30 days while making permanent housing arrangements or the assigned unit can provide a dormitory room.

Under the Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI) authorities, Department of Defense (DoD) works with the private sector to revitalize military family housing through a variety of financial tools—direct loans, equity investments, loan guarantees, conveyance or leasing of land and/or housing and other facilities. Military members receive a basic allowance which they can use for living in the private sector housing or in privatized housing.