MACDILL AFB
AIR FORCE
Tampa, FL
United States
MACDILL AFB
AIR FORCE
Tampa, FL
United States
MacDill AFB
America's Superbase
Base Essentials
Home of U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command in Tampa, FL — one of the most coveted postings in the military, with two of the country's most consequential commands and prime Tampa Bay lifestyle.
Base Details
Type
Air Force Base
Branch
AIR FORCE
Command
AMC
Status
Active
Est.
1941
Acres
5,826
Active Duty
12,000
Civilian
5,000
Population
3,200,000
Economic Impact
$3.4 billion
MacDill AFB History
Named AfterColonel Leslie MacDill
MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida, was established in 1941 and occupies a peninsula extending into Tampa Bay. It is home to the headquarters of both U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command, two of the most prominent combatant commands in the Department of Defense. The 6th Air Refueling Wing operates KC-135 Stratotankers from the base. MacDill's role as the nerve center for Middle East operations and global special operations makes it one of the most strategically significant installations in the military despite its relatively modest physical size.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
U.S. Central Command (HQ)
—
—
U.S. Special Operations Command (HQ)
—
—
6th Air Refueling Wing
—
—
Historic Timeline
1941
MacDill Field Established for Bomber Training
1962
Cuban Missile Crisis Reconnaissance Hub
1983
U.S. Central Command Established at MacDill
1987
U.S. Special Operations Command Activated
2001
Global War on Terror Operations Center
—
View Key Moments
(5)
1941
MacDill Field Established for Bomber Training
MacDill Field was established near Tampa, Florida, for Army Air Corps bomber and combat crew training. Named after Col. Leslie MacDill, a pioneering aviator killed in a 1938 crash near Washington D.C., the base rapidly became one of the largest air training facilities in the southeastern United States.
1962
Cuban Missile Crisis Reconnaissance Hub
During the Cuban Missile Crisis, MacDill Air Force Base served as a key operational hub for reconnaissance and strike planning. Tactical Air Command aircraft flew surveillance missions over Cuba from MacDill throughout the 13-day confrontation that brought the U.S. and Soviet Union to the brink of nuclear war.
1983
U.S. Central Command Established at MacDill
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) was established at MacDill Air Force Base on January 1, 1983, assuming responsibility for military operations across the Middle East, Central Asia, and East Africa. CENTCOM would go on to direct every major U.S. military operation in the region for the next four decades.
1987
U.S. Special Operations Command Activated
U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) was activated at MacDill Air Force Base on April 16, 1987, unifying all special operations forces under a single combatant command. SOCOM is unique as the only combatant command with both operational and force generation responsibilities for its component forces.
2001
Global War on Terror Operations Center
Following the September 11 attacks, both CENTCOM and SOCOM at MacDill became the operational nerve centers for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and subsequent Global War on Terror campaigns, coordinating the largest sustained U.S. military operations since Vietnam.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for MacDill AFB.
MacDill AFB Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for MacDill AFB.
Gate hours can change suddenly during special exercises, holidays, and operational periods. We always recommend confirming details before you travel.
Latest News
Recent articles and updates from MacDill AFB.
Information
Two Siblings Charged After Explosive Device Sat Undetected for Days at MacDill Air Force Base
Read
Military News
MacDill AFB Evacuates Amid Hurricane Milton Threat
Read
Military News
5,500 Guardsmen Aid Hurricane Helene Victims in Southeast US
Read
Health & Fitness
The Impact of Building Mental Strength
Read
Health & Fitness
Choosing the Right Behavior Analyst for Military Families
Read
PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to MacDill AFB.
Welcome center hours and contact details can change. We recommend confirming before you visit or call.
Military & Family Readiness Center (M&FRC)
Phone
(813) 828-1110Hours
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Thu: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location
8307 CYPRESS STAND DR BLDG 49In-Processing
Upon arrival at MacDill AFB during duty hours (Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM), contact your gaining unit immediately. Your supervisor or sponsor will direct you to the Military Personnel Element (MPE) Customer Service at 8011 Tampa Point Blvd, Building 373, where you will turn in your in-processing package with a copy of your orders. If you arrive after 4:30 PM, on weekends, or on holidays, report to the 24-hour arrival point at the MacDill Inn, Building 350, 7637 Bayshore Blvd. The Visitors Reception Center at the Dale Mabry Gate ((813) 828-2737) provides temporary base access passes weekdays 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
All newly assigned members of the 6th Air Refueling Wing must attend the Newcomers Orientation within 30 days of arrival, held the first Thursday of each month, 7:30 AM – 11:45 AM at the Breakaway Events Center, 7315 Bayshore Blvd, Building 499. Finance in-processing is at the 6th Comptroller Squadron, Building 147, 2610 Pink Flamingo Ave ((813) 828-5377), with walk-in hours Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
The M&FRC at Building 18 ((813) 828-0145) provides PCS counseling, the "Plan My Move" online tool, financial readiness workshops, EFMP support, the Commander's Key Spouse Program, and Air Force Aid Society benefits including 20 free hours of childcare per child during PCS. Military and Family Life Counselors are available at (813) 816-3061 for confidential relocation counseling. Register for Newcomers Orientation at FSC.frontdesk@us.af.mil.
Trusted Base Intel. Since 1966.
Join 200,000+ personnel for base news, PCS tips, exclusive discounts, and critical benefits info.
Always free. Unsubscribe anytime.
Open PCS Entitlements Estimator
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
Download Full Base Guide PDF
Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
Trusted Base Intel. Since 1966.
Join 200,000+ personnel for base news, PCS tips, exclusive discounts, and critical benefits info.
Always free. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Housing & BAH
On-post housing, cost of living, and BAH info for MacDill AFB.
FL066
MHA
On-post housing at MacDill Air Force Base is managed by Hunt Companies, which operates family communities in a genuinely exceptional waterfront setting on the Interbay Peninsula of Tampa, Florida, with many homes offering views of Tampa Bay and 2- to 4-bedroom floor plans. Communities feature modern finishes and access to community centers, a marina, pools, and fitn…
Local Market
$2,200/mo
rent
/
$460,000
avg. home
2026 BAH Calculator
Loading calculator...
View Full BAH Rates
Cost of Living Around MacDill AFB
102
2% Above National Average
Housing
Calculate Your Buying Power
See what you can afford using your rank, BAH, and local market data.
Open Calculator
Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near MacDill AFB.
School Liaison Officer
School Liaison Office
1
Elementary Schools
View schools
1
Middle Schools
View schools
1
High Schools
View schools
4
Colleges & Universities
View colleges
11
Other Schools
View schools
Education Resources
Notes, tuition & more
Education Benefits
Check Your GI Bill Eligibility
Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, and more.
Where To Live
MacDill AFB occupies the southern tip of the Tampa Bay peninsula, home to US Central Command and US Special Operations Command. Tampa is a major Florida city with a booming economy, a nationally recognized restaurant scene rooted in its Cuban heritage, and easy access to Gulf beaches. It is consistently rated one of the best duty stations in the Air Force.
South Tampa
Urban
South Tampa is the closest off-base neighborhood to MacDill and popular with officers and senior enlisted who want urban convenience. It has a walkable restaurant and bar scene, a mix of older Florida bungalows and newer townhomes, and easy access to both MacDill and downtown Tampa. It's the priciest option in the market, but BAH covers it well for most pay grades.
Commute: 10–20 min
Gate: Main Gate (Dale Mabry Hwy)
Schools: Hillsborough County Public Schools
Single service members
Dual military
Retirees
Hyde Park Village, Bayshore Boulevard, and Ballast Point Park all nearby. Easy access to Ybor City and downtown Tampa. The combination of beach proximity and urban living is hard to beat.
Brandon
Suburban
Brandon is the most popular destination for MacDill families who want more space for their dollar. It sits east of Tampa with a dense suburban corridor of good schools, major retail, and housing options at every price point. The commute runs along Gandy Blvd or via I-75/Crosstown and can be slow in rush hour, but most families consider the tradeoff worth it for larger homes and better-rated schools.
Commute: 25–35 min
Gate: Main Gate (Dale Mabry Hwy)
Schools: Hillsborough County Public Schools
Families with kids
Budget-friendly
Pet owners
Westfield Brandon Mall, numerous parks, and proximity to both Tampa and Plant City give Brandon a full quality-of-life package. Housing prices are notably lower than South Tampa.
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at MacDill AFB.
State Income Tax
None
Military Pay
No state income tax
Retirement Pay
No state income tax
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Military Pay Details
Florida has no state income tax. Active duty pay, military retirement, and SBP payments are all completely untaxed at th…
Spouse Income Tax
Florida has no state income tax. Popular military domicile state.
Vehicle Registration
Active duty stationed elsewhere may maintain FL registration.
Property Tax
Homestead exemption up to $50,000. Disabled veterans may receive additional exemptions.
Latest Videos from MyBaseGuide
View all
Pet Policies at MacDill AFB
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at MacDill AFB.
Emergency Vet
Coming soon
On-Base Vet Clinic
MacDill Veterinary Treatment Facility
Phone
(813) 828-3558Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Restricted Breeds
7
Prohibited Animals
12
Dog Parks
1
Boarding & Kennels
—
Pet Guidance
2
Max Pets
Leash Laws
Pet-Friendly Housing
Local Pet Notes
Pet Shipping Tips
Temporary Lodging
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at MacDill AFB.
Commissary
1
MacDill AFB Commissary
Click2Go Available
Exchange
BX
Medical
2
Sabal Park Clinic — Clinic
Childcare & Youth
CDC Available
Youth Programs
MWR & Recreation
4
Fitness Center
Golf Course
Employment & Education
3
Education Center
Spouse Employment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about MacDill AFB.
01
Is there a commissary on base?
Yes, MacDill AFB Commissary is on-base and open to all authorized DoD ID card holders. Hours: Daily 9am–7pm.
Read answer
02
Is there a BX on base?
Yes, MacDill AFB has a BX (Base Exchange) offering tax-free shopping for authorized ID card holders.
Read answer
03
What is the base hospital or clinic?
6th Medical Group Clinic is the primary military treatment clinic serving MacDill AFB. Call (813) 828-2273 for appointments or the nurse advice line.
Read answer
04
Is there a childcare center on base?
Yes, MacDill AFB has a Child Development Center (CDC) offering full-day and part-day programs. Waitlists fill quickly — register at MilitaryChildCare.com as soon as orders are received.
Read answer
05
Is there temporary lodging on base?
Yes, MacDill AFB has on-post temporary lodging available for incoming PCS personnel and TDY visitors. Reserve early — spaces fill fast during peak PCS season (May through August).
Read answer
06
What school district serves the base?
Hillsborough County Public Schools (rated B (Niche)) serves most military families at MacDill AFB. Visit hcps.net for enrollment info and the school finder tool.
Read answer
07
Are there pet breed restrictions on base?
Yes, on-base housing at MacDill AFB restricts certain breeds including Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, and others. Contact the housing office or review your lease addendum for the full restricted breeds list.
Read answer
08
Is there a dog park on base?
Yes, MacDill FamCamp Dog Parks is a fenced off-leash dog park available to residents at MacDill AFB.
Read answer
09
Is there a gym on base?
Yes, MacDill AFB has a fitness center available free of charge to active-duty, Reserve, and retired members and their eligible family members. Contact MWR for current hours and locations.
Read answer
10
Is military pay taxed in Florida?
Florida has no state income tax, so military members at MacDill AFB owe no state taxes on military pay, allowances, or retirement income.
Read answer
11
How do visitor passes work?
Visitors must be sponsored by someone with base access and should contact the installation's Visitor Control Center in advance with their government-issued ID and vehicle info. Day passes are issued at the gate; extended access may require additional coordination.
Read answer
12
What is BAH and how is it calculated?
BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) is a monthly stipend based on your pay grade, dependency status, and the duty station ZIP code — it is not counted as taxable income. Rates are updated each January; use the BAH Calculator in the Finance section to see current figures for MacDill AFB.
Read answer
13
What should I do first after receiving PCS orders?
Contact the gaining installation's housing office and military transportation office (TMO/PPSO) immediately after orders are issued. Apply for on-base housing right away — waitlists at many installations run 6–18 months.
Read answer
14
Does TRICARE cover local providers?
TRICARE covers both the on-base military treatment facility and authorized civilian providers in the surrounding community. Use the provider finder at tricare.mil to confirm in-network options near MacDill AFB.
Read answer
Question
More AIR FORCE Installations
Explore other AIR FORCE bases and installations.
Air Force Academy
Colorado Springs, CO
Altus AFB
Altus, OK
Andersen AFB
Yigo, GU
Arnold AFB
Tullahoma, TN
Aviano AB
Aviano, Pordenone
Barksdale AFB
Bossier City, LA
Beale AFB
Marysville, CA
Cannon AFB
Clovis, NM
Columbus AFB
Columbus, MS
Davis-Monthan AFB
Tucson, AZ
Dover AFB
Dover, DE
Dyess AFB
Abilene, TX
Edwards AFB
Rosamond, CA
Eglin AFB
Valparaiso, FL
Eielson AFB
Fairbanks, AK
Ellsworth AFB
Box Elder, SD
F.E. Warren AFB
Cheyenne, WY
Fairchild AFB
Airway Heights, WA
Goodfellow AFB
San Angelo, TX
Grand Forks AFB
Grand Forks, ND
Hanscom AFB
Bedford, MA
Hawaii – Air Force
Honolulu, HI
Hill AFB
Clearfield, UT
Holloman AFB
Alamogordo, NM
Homestead ARB
Homestead, FL
Hurlburt Field
Mary Esther, FL
Joint Base Andrews
Camp Springs, MD
Keesler AFB
Biloxi, MS
Kirtland AFB
Albuquerque, NM
Lackland AFB
San Antonio, TX
Laughlin AFB
Del Rio, TX
Little Rock AFB
Jacksonville, AR
Luke AFB
Glendale, AZ
Malmstrom AFB
Great Falls, MT
March ARB
Moreno Valley, CA
Maxwell-Gunter AFB
Montgomery, AL
McConnell AFB
Wichita, KS
Minot AFB
Minot, ND
Moody AFB
Valdosta, GA
Mountain Home AFB
Mountain Home, ID
Nellis & Creech AFB
Las Vegas, NV
Offutt AFB
Bellevue, NE
Ramstein Air Base
Ramstein-Miesenbach, Rhineland-Palatinate
Robins AFB
Warner Robins, GA
Scott AFB
Belleville, IL
Seymour Johnson AFB
Goldsboro, NC
Shaw AFB
Sumter, SC
Sheppard AFB
Wichita Falls, TX
Tinker AFB
Oklahoma City, OK
Travis AFB
Fairfield, CA
Tyndall AFB
Panama City, FL
Vance AFB
Enid, OK
Westover ARB
Chicopee, MA
Whiteman AFB
Knob Noster, MO
Wright Patterson AFB
Dayton, OH
Data & Methodology
How we source this −
Information is compiled from DoD publications, official installation websites, and reviewed by military personnel. Independent publication — not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense.