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Editorial Review
Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) represents one of the largest and most complex military installations in the United States. This joint base houses both Army and Air Force units, providing diverse opportunities but also requiring families to navigate two different cultures. The installation offers excellent healthcare through Madigan Army Medical Center, and the Pacific Northwest location provides unmatched outdoor recreation. However, housing wait times remain a significant challenge, and the cost of living in the Tacoma area has increased substantially in recent years.
Reviewed by Virtual Ombudsman Editorial Team • 2026-02-04