PCS-ing to Camden County, GA: What to Know Before You Relocate to Kings Bay

Coastal Roots Realty
Apr 30
3 min read

Aerial view of a serene marshland at sunset in Camden County, Georgia. A winding river cuts through green wetlands with a small cluster of trees, under a pink sky.

Relocating with military orders comes with a lot of moving pieces—especially when you’re headed somewhere new. If you’ve received PCS orders to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, you’re about to call one of coastal Georgia’s most sought-after duty stations home.

Here’s everything you need to know before making your move to Camden County.

Where You’re Going

Located in southeast Georgia near the Florida line, Camden County is home to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay—the U.S. Navy’s East Coast hub for ballistic missile submarines.

You’ll be minutes from the charming coastal town of St. Marys and just a short drive from Jacksonville, Florida, giving you access to both small-town living and big-city convenience.

Brick entrance to Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay, Georgia with greenery and a guard post in the background under a blue sky.

Best Areas to Live Near Kings Bay

When relocating, location is everything—especially with commute times and lifestyle in mind.

St. Marys

The closest town to base (typically 5–10 minutes), St. Marys offers a laid-back coastal feel, waterfront views, and easy access to base amenities.

Kingsland

About 10 minutes from base, Kingsland is known for newer construction, shopping, restaurants, and quick access to I-95. It’s one of the most popular choices for military relocations.

Brunswick & St. Simons Island

If you’re willing to commute a bit further, these areas offer beaches, golf, and a more coastal lifestyle.

💡 Most service members choose to live within 15 minutes of base for convenience.

Housing Options (On-Base vs. Off-Base)

You’ll have a few solid options depending on your timeline and preferences:

On-Base Housing

Managed housing communities with amenities like parks and playgrounds
Available for active-duty families and some eligible civilians
Walkable, convenient lifestyle

Off-Base Housing

More flexibility in home style, size, and neighborhood
Popular for buyers using VA loans
Strong inventory in Kingsland and St. Marys (though homes can move quickly)

The Navy Housing Service Center can also assist with referrals, lease guidance, and relocation support.

A boat navigates through a winding blue river surrounded by marshlands under a clear sky, evoking a serene natural setting.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle

One of the biggest advantages of Camden County? Affordability.

Compared to many duty stations, the cost of living here is considered reasonable, making it easier to stretch your BAH further.

Beyond that, the lifestyle is a major draw:

Coastal living without the high price tag
Access to boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation
Slower pace of life with less traffic

Schools & Community

Camden County is known for being military-friendly, with schools that actively support transitioning families.

Camden County School District serves most of the area
Local schools often provide “Welcome Aboard” resources for military families
Strong sense of community, especially among military households

PCS Resources You Should Use

Don’t overlook the built-in support available to you:

Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC)Offers relocation assistance, welcome packets, and workshops to help you settle in.

Relocation Assistance Program (RAP)Includes:

Sponsorship programs
Moving resources
Temporary “lending locker” household items
One-on-one consultations

What to Expect When You Arrive

Most neighborhoods are within a 5–20 minute commute to base
I-95 access makes travel easy for weekend trips
Jacksonville International Airport is about 30–40 minutes away
Expect warm weather nearly year-round

How Coastal Roots Realty Can Help

PCS moves often come with tight timelines and big decisions. Working with a local team that understands military relocation can make the process significantly smoother.

At Coastal Roots Realty, several of our agents hold the Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification, meaning they’re specifically trained to support active-duty service members and their families during a PCS move.

We help you:

Navigate timelines and remote buying or renting
Understand VA loan benefits and local market conditions
Identify the best neighborhoods based on your needs
Coordinate showings and decisions—even if you’re relocating from out of state

A group of smiling realtors pose indoors against a teal wall with colorful balloons. Logos for Coastal Roots Realty and others are visible behind them.

Final Thoughts

PCS-ing to Camden County isn’t just another move—it’s an opportunity to enjoy coastal living, a strong sense of community, and a more relaxed pace of life.

With the right preparation—and the right local guidance—your transition to Kings Bay can be seamless from day one.