What was established as a humble Marine Barracks in 1917 has evolved into a massive installation that is coined “The Crossroads of the Marine Corps.” Marine Corps Base Quantico occupies roughly 55,000 acres of land in southern Prince William County, northern Stafford County, and eastern Fauquier County. It is bordered to the east by the tiny town of Quantico, which has been almost completely engulfed by the base. Unique among military installations, the public has access to the base and housing areas. There’s also a publicly accessible commuter train station on base with service for both the Virginia Railway Express and Amtrak.

As the home of the Marine Officer Candidate School, every Marine officer will train at Quantico and many enlisted Marines will pass through its gates as well. The Expeditionary Warfare School, Command and Staff College, and the Marine Corps University are also located at MCB Quantico, attracting senior-ranking Marines and officers from across the services. The FBI, DEA, and the DIA (Defense Intelligence Agency) all have training academies on base, and Marine One’s helicopters are also stationed here (you know…the folks that fly the president!). There’s also the Marine Corps Brig, Marine Corps Combat Development Command, and the Marine Corps Research Center at Quantico.

Living off post is popular, as base housing is usually reserved for students attending one of the many schools or training facilities, or for International exchange officers. The nearby town of Stafford is a popular choice, as well as Woodbridge or even further north for the reverse commute. Spend some time on our neighborhood guides — especially the commute sections — to get an idea for the area. Often times, those stationed at MCB Quantico will do a follow on assignment at The Pentagon or another area installation. You’ll want to consider that possibility, and the commute implications, if you’re thinking of living in Stafford or any other Southern NOVA suburb.