If you’re a military family relocating to Oahu, welcome—and thank you for your service. Moving across the ocean comes with its fair share of excitement and uncertainty. Whether it’s your first PCS or you’ve done this before, finding the right place to live near your duty station is a big decision.
One of the most popular—and practical—choices for military families stationed at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam is Aiea. Here’s why so many servicemembers and their families call this beautiful community home.
📍 Why Aiea?
Located just north of Pearl Harbor, Aiea offers one of the shortest commutes to the base. You can easily access Kamehameha Highway or H-1, making your trip to work smooth and stress-free—something you’ll appreciate during early morning PT or late-night duty calls.
But Aiea isn’t just about convenience. It’s also family-friendly, offers affordable home options (by Oahu standards), and has gorgeous views, shopping, schools, and hiking trails all nearby.
🏡 Housing Options for Military Families
Whether you’re looking to buy a home with your VA loan or rent while you get your bearings, Aiea has solid options:
✅ Condos & Townhomes
- Pearl Ridge Gardens & Tower, Ridgeway, and other townhome communities offer low-maintenance living with great amenities.
✅ Single-Family Homes
- Aiea Heights features larger homes with views of Pearl Harbor.
- Halawa offers convenient access to shopping and schools.
🎯 Good to know: Most homes in Aiea were built in the ’60s–’80s, but many have been updated with modern kitchens, solar panels, and split A/C.
🏦 Using Your VA Loan in Aiea
Oahu is a VA-friendly market, and your VA loan benefits go a long way in Aiea.
- $0 down payment required on most homes
- No PMI (private mortgage insurance)
- Easier qualification for active-duty families
With home prices averaging around $875,000 in Aiea, having a trusted local lender and a VA-savvy Realtor is key to making your move successful.
👨👩👧👦 Schools & Family Life
Military families often ask about schools, and Aiea delivers. The area is served by:
- Aiea Elementary
- Alvah Scott Elementary
- Aiea Intermediate
- Aiea High School
These schools are known for community involvement and strong extracurricular programs. Plus, your keiki will grow up in a diverse, supportive environment rich in Hawaiian culture and local traditions.
For family fun, Aiea offers:
- Aiea Loop Trail (great weekend hike with views!)
- Pearlridge Center for shopping, dining, and movies
- Neal S. Blaisdell Park for picnics and sports
- Hickam Beach is just a short drive away and open to military
✈️ Getting Settled in Paradise
Relocating to Hawaii isn’t your average PCS. But the aloha spirit, welcoming community, and scenic beauty of Aiea make the transition smoother. You’ll find neighbors who’ve “been there,” a strong network of military families, and plenty of local support.
From Facebook groups to USO events, you’ll quickly feel part of something special.
🤝 I’m Here to Help You Every Step of the Way
As a local Realtor who’s worked with many military families, I know the PCS process inside and out—and I’m here to make it as easy as possible.
Whether you need:
- Help understanding your BAH budget
- Guidance with the VA loan process
- A tour of Aiea homes and neighborhoods before you move
👉 Let’s connect and make your Oahu move stress-free.