Fort Drum
KEY CONTACTS
Fort Drum Mountain Community Homes
P-10720 Mt. Belvedere Blvd.
Clark Hall, Room A2-54
Fort Drum, NY 13602
PH: (315) 836-4168
Army Community Service
P-4330 Conway Rd.
Fort Drum, NY 13602
PH: (315) 772-6557
School Liaison Office
Fort Drum Clark Hall
P-10720, Second Floor
Fort Drum, NY 13602
PH: (315) 772-3214
Most installation services will be available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. As always, call first to confirm hours and availability of services.
Helpful hint: Contact these offices early in the week during the morning time
About Fort Drum
Located in the far northern reaches of New York state, Fort Drum was initially established as Pine Camp in 1908. The facility underwent a significant expansion during World War II, and the name was changed to Camp Drum in 1951 in honor of Lieutenant General Hugh A. Drum. In 1974, the installation was designated a permanent garrison and renamed Fort Drum. Today, nearly 20,000 Soldiers call Fort Drum home, and the base is the largest employer in the region.
The 10th Mountain Division is the biggest game in town, and most units on the post are either part of this light infantry division or serve a support function. The optempo is high, and frequent deployments are a fact of life for the Mountaineers.
Summer is delightful in the North Country, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s. Fort Drum is surrounded by striking natural beauty, and outdoor fans have much to explore. The shores of Lake Ontario are to the west, and the Adirondack Mountains lie to the east. Wellesley Island—one of the famed Thousand Islands of the region—is covered in trails and is an impressive spot to camp and hike in the warm weather.
Be sure your passport is up-to-date before heading to Fort Drum. The base is 30 miles from the Canadian border, and Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal are close options for weekend explorations.
Subject to ‘lake effect’ snow from the moisture that blows off Lake Ontario, the area around Fort Drum regularly sees some of the highest snowfall totals in the United States. But the snowfall does not hinder daily life, and snow removal crews are highly proactive and well-practiced. Learn how to use a snowblower—or be nice to your neighbor! With the snow comes plenty of winter sports options, including abundant snowmobile trails and nearby skiing and snowboarding at the Dry Hill Ski area in Watertown.
The winter does bring one caveat—be sure to factor in the cost of heating when house-hunting! Energy bills can be significant during the winter, and newcomers are often in shock when their first heating bill arrives.
The areas surrounding Fort Drum aren’t organized into neat subdivisions like in other parts of the country. Neighborhoods vary from street to street, sometimes even from house to house. This can make house-hunting particularly tricky, as finding a good-looking house immediately adjacent to a rundown or abandoned property is common. Working with a Scout is vital in this area, especially if you need to rent sight unseen.
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Nearby Neighborhoods
Popular Neighborhoods
Black River
About
Black River is a small town (more of a neighborhood, really) with a chipper vibe, just off the south side of Fort Drum. The proximity allows military families easy access to the facilities and activities on Fort Drum with the flexibility of off-post accommodations. Being so close to Fort Drum, some residents feel the town is an extension of the base.
There is a well-regarded library in this small town and trails for walking and running—the Black River Trail is especially popular and terminates in town. Stewart’s, a high-end gas station, is a favorite local spot and sells everything from yummy meatballs to delicious ice cream!
Neighbors
Black River is a good spot for families and has a large military population.
Neighborhood Feel
There is some new construction, but many houses date back to the 1800s. There are no specific subdivisions, and architectural styles vary.
Neighborhood Info | Black River
Points of Interest
- Black River Drive-in
- Sally Ploof Hunter Memorial Library
- Black River Trail
Big Plus
- Adjacent to post and part of the popular Carthage school district, families appreciate the convenience of living in Black River.
Things to Consider
- Black River is primarily a residential area. You will need to travel for shopping.
School Scoop
- Black River is part of the Carthage Central School District and has one school, Black River School.
- Carthage Central School District is one of the two districts that serve children living on Fort Drum. The school district offers Student Online Achievement Resources (SOAR), a program specifically for military children that assists families with school transitions by providing assessments and tutorials designed to help familiarize students with school standards in a new location.
Highlighted Areas
- Maple Street
Carthage
About
Carthage is a charming town that looks like it came straight out of a Thomas Kincade painting. It lies south of Fort Drum and has gracious homes from the 1800s and early 1900s. This village offers a small-town vibe, spacious lots, and easy access to post. Residents invest time and effort in their properties, and the pride of ownership shows. Carthage also offers more space, with some homes just outside of the village featuring lots with two or more acres.
Carthage can mix two worlds, with local working-class families and farmers living alongside military families. There is a bit of shopping (including a Price Chopper and an Aldi) in town and several eateries. From May through October, the city hosts the Carthage Farmers Market on Fridays, with local produce, baked goods, and craft items for sale.
The elementary schools in Carthage have an excellent reputation, and the Carthage district is one of two that serves the students living on Fort Drum. Families are drawn to this quintessential northern New York town for the schools. Carthage residents also enjoy Turning Point Park, a waterfront park, and Carthage Park, which offers a large wooden playground, a skateboard park, and trails.
Neighbors
Carthage is popular with service members, and there is a significant military presence in town. Carthage Area Hospital draws those working in the healthcare sector to the city.
Neighborhood Feel
Many homes in Carthage were built in the 19th century and the early part of the 20th century. Prominent Victorians, Cape Cods, and some smaller mid-century family homes can be found. There are also a good number of townhomes and apartments in town.
Neighborhood Info | Carthage
Points of Interest
- Carthage Park
- Carthage Farmer’s Market
- Ryders Edge Skate Park
Big Plus
- Carthage schools are well-regarded, and the area is popular with families looking to reside in the school district.
- This classic North Country village has an appealing small-town vibe.
- Carthage is convenient to Fort Drum without feeling like you are still on post.
Things to Consider
- Carthage is sprawling, and your commute might be longer than expected if you find yourself in the far reaches of town.
- There isn’t a lot of nightlife in this small, quiet town.
School Scoop
- Public schools in Carthage are in Carthage Central School District. There are three schools in Carthage, including West Carthage Elementary School.
- Carthage Central School District is one of the two districts that serve children living on Fort Drum. The school district offers Student Online Achievement Resources (SOAR), a program specifically for military children that assists families with school transitions by providing assessments and tutorials designed to help familiarize students with school standards in a new location.
- Augustine Academy is a private option for families in Carthage.
Highlighted Areas
- Forest Hills apartments
- Buckley Building apartments
Evans Mills
About
Stretching from the main gate of Fort Drum to the north and west, Evans Mills is a rural area that offers large homesites and quiet living. This small community contains many homes built in the first half of the 20th century. Some are updated, but many retain the home’s original character.
Fort Drum, particularly the airfield, is easily accessible from Evans Mills but the area feels removed from the post and Army life. The area is perfect for those who want room to breathe. Chicken raising is popular here, and Evans Mills is a great spot to expand your flock.
Neighbors
Evans Mills is a mix of blue-collar and white-collar families, with many military families and farmers added in.
Neighborhood Feel
This is a rural area with homes on large plots of land. Architectural styles vary, with many farmhouses and Victorians from the 18th and early 19th century alongside mid-century ranches. New construction is less common.
Neighborhood Info | Evans Mills
Points of Interest
- Evans Mills Speedway
Big Plus
- Evans Mills is close to Fort Drum and offers an easy commute.
- If you want to spread out and feel removed from "post life," Evans Mills offers the land to do so.
Things to Consider
- Evans Mills is a small town and can be pretty sedate.
School Scoop
- Public schools in Evans Mills belong to the Indian River Central School District. Indian River Central School District is one of the two districts that serve children living on Fort Drum. Evans Mills has one primary school—Evans Mills Primary School—serving children in kindergarten through third grade. Universal Pre-K is available to all children in the district.
Highlighted Areas
- Eagle Ridge Apartments
Philadelphia, NY
About
Philadelphia—New York, not Pennsylvania—is a small riverside community with historical roots in the timber industry. The area is mainly rural with farms dotting the landscape. Fun fact—Philadelphia brand cream cheese is named after this town, not the large city to the south, due to the quality of the cream cheese produced in the area.
Families choose to settle in the area due to the proximity of several well-regarded schools, namely Indian River Intermediate School, Indian River Middle School, and Indian River High School. Affordable housing is also appealing for military families, and Philadelphia has an array of properties to support a variety of income levels.
Neighbors
The area is mainly rural, and you can expect to find many farmers living and working there.
Neighborhood Feel
Houses vary in Indian River, with farmhouses from the 1800s sprinkled around town and newer styles built in between. Colonials and ranches are common, with some townhomes and apartments available.
Neighborhood Info | Philadelphia, NY
Points of Interest
- Otter Creek Winery
Big Plus
- Philadelphia is close to the middle, intermediate, and high schools in the popular Indian River School district, one of two districts serving students who live on Fort Drum.
- Housing is available for a variety of income levels.
Things to Consider
- There is not much going on in this small hamlet.
School Scoop
- Philadelphia has four public schools. One of the best is Philadelphia Primary School. Public schools in Philadelphia belong to the Indian River Central School District. Indian River Central School District is one of the two districts that serve children living on Fort Drum. Universal Pre-K is available to all children in the district.
Highlighted Areas
- Main Street
- Church Street
Sackets Harbor
About
Universally acknowledged as the most picturesque town in the region, Sackets Harbor is the place to be for the young and single. Sackets Harbor is a happening town with bars, coffee shops, and cute stores lining the streets of this waterfront community.
In addition to being a trendy spot to hang out, this small town also has a noteworthy history dating back to the early 19th century. Its Main Street features several well-preserved historical buildings. Sackets Harbor was an important strategic site during the War of 1812 and an essential shipbuilding hub.
Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, Sackets Harbor has a marina. It is the site for almost any water sport you wish to enjoy, including swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, paddle boarding, water skiing, and sailing.
Neighbors
Neighbors are richly diverse, and locals mix with the seasonal crowds of tourists.
Neighborhood Feel
Historic homes sit alongside new construction in this tree-lined, lakeside community. Home styles vary, with craftsman, ranch, colonial, and townhomes all available.
Neighborhood Info | Sackets Harbor
Points of Interest
- Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site
- The Lake Ontario Playhouse
- Sackets Harbor Heritage Area and Visitor’s Center
- Old McDonald’s Farm
Big Plus
- Sackets Harbor is a gorgeous area; residents enjoy living in such a scenic spot. Lake Ontario provides beautiful views year-round.
- A popular spot to visit, living in Sackets Harbor carries a certain cachet.
- The town is pedestrian-friendly, and residents can walk to restaurants and bars.
- Recently constructed homes are more plentiful here than in some other regional communities.
Things to Consider
- The commute to Fort Drum is significant and can take up to 45 minutes in good weather on a single-lane road.
- There is not a lot of shopping for essentials in Sackets Harbor. Expect to drive 15 minutes to Watertown to get to Walmart.
- Most establishments close during the winter months in this tourist town.
- The town is one of the priciest in the area, and you pay for the exclusivity of living in Sackets Harbor.
- The town is great for singles and young couples but offers less for families and kids.
School Scoop
- Sackets Harbor and the Sackets Harbor Central School District contain one public school, Sackets Harbor Central School, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school has a military and family life counselor available.
Highlighted Areas
- Creekside Lane Apartments at Madison Barracks
- Battlefield Commons
- Sackets Meadow
Watertown
About
Once a thriving industrial center and one of the wealthiest towns in America at the beginning of the 20th century, Watertown is long past its heyday but remains the nerve center of this tract of New York’s North Country. With stately older homes, a beautiful park designed by Fredrick Law Olmstead, and a zoo, Watertown is the most urban of the areas around Fort Drum and draws those stationed at Fort Drum for shopping and recreation.
Architectural styles vary in Watertown. The neighborhoods around Thompson Park boast large, historic homes, while the area to the west of the city features newer townhomes and condominiums near plentiful shopping. Many neighborhoods are suitable for families around the city, especially near the hospital. Younger officers appreciate the newer area due to affordable property prices and proximity to post.
House hunting in Watertown can be particularly tricky, as subdivisions are not typical and streets change from desirable to unsuitable very quickly. There are pockets of crime to consider, and some older properties have not been kept up. An experienced AgentHero is vital when looking at homes in Watertown and can help point you to safe and well-maintained properties.
Neighbors
Watertown residents are diverse, and your neighbors are more likely to be civilians than military members. The city has a blue-collar vibe, and you will find a mix of working-class and middle-class folks.
Neighborhood Feel
There isn’t a single architectural style that prevails in Watertown. Beautiful historic homes dating back over a century alongside new construction can be found. There are also townhomes and houses from the 1950s and 1960s.
Neighborhood Info | Watertown
Points of Interest
- New York State Zoo at Thompson Park
- Dry Hill Ski Area
- Burrville Cider Mill
- Salmon Run Mall
- Sci-Tech Museum of Northern New York
Big Plus
- Watertown is the most developed area around Fort Drum and has many popular chain stores and restaurants.
- Many beautiful historic homes are teeming with character, and some have been renovated to include modern conveniences.
- There are a variety of housing options available. Families, single servicemembers, and couples will all find options well-suited to their needs and budget.
- As the largest city in the area, you will find more entertainment and nightlife in Watertown than in the other regions surrounding Fort Drum.
Things to Consider
- It is not recommended to rent or buy sight unseen in some areas of Watertown. If you need help with area “recon,” our Scouts or Agent Heroes can lend expert advice.
- There are pockets of neglect, and a seemingly lovely area can quickly devolve into a less-than-desirable spot. Make sure you explore the surrounding areas of any property you are considering.
- The lack of proper subdivisions can make it particularly tricky to focus your house-hunting search.
School Scoop
- The public schools in Watertown largely belong to Watertown City School District. A Military Family Life Counselor is assigned to each school in the Watertown district. General Brown Central School District also has a school, Brownville School, within the Watertown city limits.
- There are three private schools in Watertown—Holy Family School, Immaculate Heart Central Schools, and Faith Fellowship Christian School
Highlighted Areas
- The streets around Samaritan Hospital — particularly Haley Street and Washington Street
- Beaver Meadow Apartments
- Preserve at Autumn Ridge
Looking at relocating?
Enter your information below and we will reach out to help the process.
7 Reasons You Should Consider Buying a Home
1. TAX ADVANTAGES
To encourage homeownership, the IRS has provided many tax breaks for owning a home. Credits may be available for specific home improvements, such as using clean energy or for qualified first-time home buyers. The way most homeowners see those advantages is through income tax itemization and deductions like mortgage interest and real estate taxes.
2. STABALIZE MONTHLY HOME COSTS
Owning your own house is one of the safest bets on stabilizing your monthly home costs. There’s no worry of rent getting increased significantly after each year of living in someone else’s home. Additionally, when you answer to yourself, there is no worry of landlord changes or unexpected lease termination.
3. HOUSE HACKING
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
4. Increased Privacy
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
5. Pets Are Welcome!
For those who choose to rent instead of buying, it can be extremely difficult to find rentals who allow for your
four-legged, furry friends. Landlords often require hefty pet deposits or place heavy restrictions on the number of pets and breeds they allow—if they will even allow pets. When considering quality of life, including beloved pets and the indoor and outdoor space available to them matters. Having the flexibility to include ALL members of your family as a homeowner is priceless!
6. Pride of Ownership
One of the greatest benefits of owning your own home is the pride of ownership that comes along with it. Not only are homeowners more inclined to take good care of their investment with routine maintenance and cleaning, but also they are free to make design choices ranging from hanging artwork on the walls, to paint colors, to customization of closets, electronics, and more. As military families who relocate frequently, having your home reflect who you really are feels important.
7. Safe and Stable Long Term Investment + Forced Savings
Owning a home has historically been one of the safest, lowest risk financial investments that tends to have long-term stability and success. As your home value appreciates and your mortgage balance decreases, what’s left is growing equity with an eventual paid off home. Making a monthly house payment is akin to setting aside a specific amount each month into a savings account—it’s a little difficult to access in the moment, but over time it can build into something significant in the form of equity.
FIVE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU IN YOUR RELOCATION PROCESS
Your PCS is underway!
The home buying and moving transition process has begun. Now what? If it feels like there are a million things to do, don’t fret because you don’t have to do them all yourself. During the relocation process, there are many service providers that can assist you in making your move a smooth one.
Consider these five resources to help you in the process
1. MOVING COMPANIES
Sure, the military offers transportation and relocation services, but many service members decide to coordinate the transfer of household goods themselves. Not only can you often earn money on the difference between moving costs and weight allowances, but you can be assured that you have more control over your belongings. Services that moving companies offer can range from delivery of boxes and pods for the “you-pack” model all the way to full-service logistics companies that will do all of the packing, loading, driving, and unpacking for you.
2. STORAGE
Whether you need to store your household goods for a few weeks until you close on your home or you decide that you have more stuff than square footage, storage companies abound. Sizes, conditions, and contracts vary widely so be sure to do your homework before you commit. Particularly in climates with extreme cold, heat, or humidity, it is important to consider using only climate-controlled storage to ensure the protection of your furniture and temporarily unused items.
3. TEMPORARY HOUSING
It is not uncommon for there to be a short gap of time during a military move between when you arrive at your new duty station and your new home being available to inhabit. No longer are hotels the only option for sticking out a few days or weeks during the wait. Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO) and Airbnb are great options to make you feel more at home while you wait for your home. In fact, why not take advantage of seeing your new city through the eyes of a tourist? Find a location near new local attractions and dining and enjoy a few days of getting to know the lay of the land.
4. USPS/IRS
Once you get settled in at your new home, it’s important that you alert agencies that will make sure your current and up-to-date address is on file. The United States Postal Service (USPS) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are two of the most important and by doing so, any important mail or documents in your name should be forwarded or sent along to your new address. It’s also a good idea to notify banks, credit card companies, and other debt collectors of a change of address. These days nearly all of these transactions can be handled online.
5. DISCARD & DONATE SERVICES
No matter how much you purge, toss, organize, minimize, or donate before you pack up the moving truck, it never fails that after you get unpacked on the other side there seems to be more stuff to declutter. Discard and donate services can help with this. Many are a phone call away and will happily come to your residence for a pickup. Others are structured where you simply drop off at a store. A lot of these services are charitable organizations and will offer you documentation for your own taxes based on your donation. It’s a win-win: you downsize by donating, and someone else benefits from your use of your items.
