Moving to a new duty station can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it involves relocating to a foreign country like Japan. Kadena Air Force Housing in Okinawa is made up of duplexes and single family homes. For Air Force families PCSing to Okinawa, understanding the intricacies of housing arrangements is essential for a smooth transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process seamlessly.

Please note that there is a current and ongoing housing shortage in Okinawa due to land give-back to the Government of Japan, ongoing delayed construction, and renovations. You can read more about the housing shortage here.

Kadena Air Force Housing in Okinawa: Live Where You Work

Similar to other branches of the military, Air Force families in Okinawa are placed in housing based on the location of the service member’s duty station, following the principle of “live where you work.” All housing applications and assignments are processed through Kadena Housing, regardless of the service branch.

Options for Kadena Air Force Housing in Okinawa:

Select a Home Upon Arrival:
Families opting for this option may experience a waiting period for available housing. However, upon arrival, they have the opportunity to choose from available homes.
Port to Home:
This option allows families to secure housing before arrival. By applying for Port to Home in advance and providing flight details, families receive three housing options. While ideally, these options are in different housing areas, it’s not always the case. Families must select one of the provided houses, typically with the assistance of a sponsor who can provide photos or a video tour.

Off-Base Housing Considerations

For those considering living off-base, it’s important to note that approval is subject to capacity constraints. Typically, off-base housing requests are considered when on-base housing reaches 98% capacity. However, approval is not guaranteed, and families should be prepared for the possibility of residing on-base.

Want to live off base? Read the pros and cons here.

Kadena Air Foce Housing in Okinawa Housing Options

Base housing in Okinawa offers a variety of styles, including duplexes and single-family homes. The type of housing assigned depends on both the base location and the rank of the service member.

The Kadena Housing page has floor plans and pictures of housing on base.

Please note that Sebille Manor and Stearley Heights is experiencing renovations and many homes are not currently available for occupancy.

PCS Okinawa Kadena Air Force Housing in Okinawa

Responsibilities and Logistics

Sponsor Support: Your sponsor plays a crucial role in facilitating the housing process. They assist in selecting a home, signing documents on your behalf, and arranging for the arrival of government furniture and loan locker items.
Furniture Provision: Upon arrival, government-provided furniture includes a queen bed for the master bedroom, a twin bed for additional rooms, dressers, a kitchen table, and a couch. However, families are responsible for providing bedding.
Furniture Pickup: Families must schedule furniture pickup for the day before their household goods (HHG) arrival, as same-day pickup is not available.
Government Furniture Usage: Families have 90 days to utilize government furniture before returning it.
Internet: MBC makes it EASY to get Internet before you even arrive on island. Simply visit their portal to sign up for your preferred service (we love our Whole Home WiFi here- especially with the concrete homes!) and the date you’d like service turned on. If you don’t have a home before you arrive, that’s ok- you can set up service after you arrive and have your modem delivered or you can pick it up at the MBC office. There is one on Kadena right next to the commissary, making it super convenient!

Moving to Okinawa, Japan, presents unique challenges and opportunities for Air Force families. By understanding the housing options available and the associated responsibilities, families can ensure a smooth transition to their new home. Whether choosing on-base or off-base housing, proper planning and coordination with sponsors and housing offices are key to a successful PCS move.