Fort Knox, KY — Complete Guide for Military Families

Fort Knox is one of the U.S. Army's most important installations, situated across Hardin and Meade counties in north-central Kentucky. Whether you're PCSing to Fort Knox for the first time, returning for another tour, or exploring the area as a civilian employee, this guide covers everything you need to know about the base, surrounding communities, and the housing market that supports military families every day.

What's at Fort Knox Today

Fort Knox's mission has evolved significantly over the decades. It is no longer the home of the Armor School (which relocated to Fort Benning in 2011), but the installation remains a critical hub for the Army. Today, Fort Knox serves as the headquarters for several major commands and organizations:

• U.S. Army Human Resources Command (HRC) — The Army's personnel headquarters, responsible for assignments, promotions, retirements, and career management for every soldier. HRC is the single largest employer on post, with thousands of military and civilian workers.
• U.S. Army Cadet Command — Oversees all ROTC programs nationwide, managing the training and commissioning pipeline for future Army officers.
• U.S. Army Recruiting Command (USAREC) — Manages the Army's nationwide recruiting operations from Fort Knox.
• United States Bullion Depository — The famous gold vault. While not an Army operation, the Depository is located on Fort Knox grounds and stores a significant portion of the nation's gold reserves. It is not open to the public, but it remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in Kentucky.
• 84th Training Command and various Reserve and National Guard units that rotate through the installation for training.

Fort Knox employs an estimated 26,000 military and civilian personnel, making it the economic engine of Hardin County and the broader region. The installation covers roughly 109,000 acres, with its own schools (DoDEA), medical facilities (Ireland Army Health Clinic), and extensive MWR programs.

Living Near Fort Knox

Military families at Fort Knox have two broad options: live on post in Knox Hills privatized housing, or find a home in one of several off-post communities. The good news is that the Fort Knox area is one of the more affordable duty stations in the country, and BAH rates typically cover a full mortgage payment in Elizabethtown and surrounding communities.

The most popular off-post communities include Elizabethtown (15 minutes south, the largest city with the most amenities), Radcliff (5 minutes from the main gate, the closest option), Vine Grove (10 minutes, small-town feel), and Brandenburg (20 minutes, rural and spacious). Each has a different character, price point, and lifestyle — and the right choice depends on your rank, family size, and what matters most to you. Our on-post vs off-post comparison breaks down the decision in detail.

PCS Resources for Fort Knox

If you're headed to Fort Knox on PCS orders, the PCS to Fort Knox guide walks you through every step from receiving orders to settling in. You'll also want to review the military relocation guide for move logistics, and the VA loans page if you're considering buying a home with your VA benefit.

Explore Fort Knox Guides

Schools for Military Families

Military families at Fort Knox have access to three school systems. The Hardin County Schools district is the largest, serving most off-post neighborhoods and earning a Purple Star designation across all 28 schools for their military family support programs. Elizabethtown Independent Schools offer a smaller, focused alternative for families living within the E-town city limits. On post, DoDEA (Department of Defense Education Activity) operates schools for families living in Knox Hills housing.

Why Families Stay

It says something about Elizabethtown that so many military families choose to stay after their service ends. The cost of living is well below the national average, the community is welcoming and accustomed to newcomers, and the access to Louisville (45 minutes north on I-65) provides big-city amenities without big-city prices. It's a place where your BAH actually builds equity instead of vanishing into rent — and where your kids can play in the front yard without worry.