PCS orders to Fort Liberty come fast, and deciding between Pinehurst and Southern Pines can feel like a lot at once. You want a predictable commute, a home that fits your budget and timeline, and easy access to schools, healthcare, and day-to-day services. This guide compares both towns through a PCS lens so you can choose with confidence, create a simple plan, and hit the ground running. Let’s dive in.
Quick snapshot: Pinehurst vs. Southern Pines
Both towns sit in Moore County and are popular with Fort Liberty families. Each offers a different feel and housing mix, and both can work well depending on your unit location and priorities.
- Pinehurst: Resort and golf lifestyle with village charm, higher-end pockets, and many HOA communities. Quiet streets in some enclaves and a polished vibe. Explore amenities on the Village of Pinehurst website.
- Southern Pines: Lively downtown, diverse restaurants and shops, and broader housing options from starter homes to townhomes. Learn about services and events on the Town of Southern Pines site.
- Commute: Both are workable for Fort Liberty. Your exact gate and duty location will determine which town is more convenient.
Commute to Fort Liberty
Commute time varies by gate, route, and duty hours. Early formations or gate traffic can add minutes, so it pays to map the exact route from a specific address to your assigned building, not just the main gate.
- Identify your unit area and most-used gate before choosing a neighborhood.
- Test-drive the route at start and end times if possible or ask unit teammates for typical travel times.
- Review base access rules and updates on the Fort Liberty website.
Tip: If you have flexibility, ask your supervisor about staggered hours or occasional telework. Small schedule shifts can make a longer commute manageable.
Housing: rent or buy during a PCS
You have solid options in both towns. The right move depends on how long you expect to stay and how much certainty you need during transition.
Market character
- Pinehurst: Generally higher prices for single-family homes, many tied to golf or club communities, and a mix of historic cottages and newer builds.
- Southern Pines: Wider price ranges and home types, including condos and townhomes, and a very active downtown core.
When renting makes sense
- Short PCS of 1 to 2 years.
- You want flexibility, furnished options, or a quick start.
- You need time to learn neighborhoods before buying.
What to verify in a lease:
- Early termination for PCS orders, pet policies, deposits, and any HOA rules that affect your use of the home.
- Who handles lawn care and which utilities are included.
When buying can work well
- Longer assignment or plans to stay in Moore County.
- You want stability, the potential to build equity, or to convert the home to a rental later.
Buyer checklist:
- Use a local agent experienced with VA loans and military timelines.
- Order full inspections and review HOA covenants.
- Ask about flood zones, windstorm coverage, and insurance requirements.
Timing your search:
- Rentals: Start 60 to 90 days before arrival.
- Purchases: Start 90 days or more before report date to allow time for lending, inspections, and closing.
Schools and childcare
Pinehurst and Southern Pines are served by Moore County Schools. Assignment depends on the exact address, so verify boundaries before you sign a lease or offer. For academic details, check the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction school report cards.
Childcare can have waitlists both on and off post. If you plan to use on-post care, register early with Fort Liberty Child & Youth Services. Off-post, verify licensing and consider fee-assistance programs through Child Care Aware.
Enrollment tips:
- Keep PCS orders, proof of residency, immunization records, and transcripts handy.
- Confirm start dates and registration windows well before arrival.
Healthcare and emergency services
You will likely use a mix of military and civilian healthcare depending on your enrollment and referrals.
- Military medical: Womack Army Medical Center on Fort Liberty provides primary and specialty services for eligible beneficiaries.
- Local civilian hospital: FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst offers comprehensive services and emergency care.
Veterans can access VA care through facilities in the Fayetteville region. Confirm eligibility and enrollment steps before you move.
Lifestyle and amenities
- Pinehurst: Golf and resort amenities, a walkable village center, and seasonal events. Country club and planned communities are common. See parks, events, and services on the Village of Pinehurst website.
- Southern Pines: A vibrant downtown with restaurants, breweries, shops, and arts events, plus community festivals. Find local programs on the Town of Southern Pines site.
Both towns offer parks, trails, and easy access to groceries, pharmacies, and everyday services. Larger shopping centers are a short drive away in nearby towns.
Costs, taxes, and budgeting
Overall costs in Moore County are often lower than large North Carolina metro areas, though some Pinehurst neighborhoods carry premium pricing due to resort amenities.
- State income tax: Review current rates with the North Carolina Department of Revenue.
- Property taxes: Rates vary by municipality and neighborhood. Check records and parcel data with the Moore County Tax Administration.
- Insurance: Confirm coverage for wind and severe weather where needed, especially when reviewing HOA and lender requirements.
Step-by-step PCS housing plan
- Before you search
- Confirm your unit location and most-used gate.
- List your top priorities: commute window, budget, lease or purchase timing, and school needs.
- Contact the installation relocation resources through the Fort Liberty website.
- Start your housing process
- Rentals: Begin 60 to 90 days out. Ask about lease flexibility and military clauses.
- Purchases: Begin 90 days or more out. Get preapproved, then schedule showings and inspections.
- For both: Review HOA policies and confirm pets, parking, and any lease or use restrictions.
- Arrival week checklist
- Set up base access for vehicles and family members.
- Enroll children in school and update medical providers.
- Confirm childcare placement or waitlist status with CYS or your chosen provider.
Which town should you choose?
Use your unit’s gate, commute tolerance, and lifestyle to decide. If you want a resort feel and do not mind HOA-centric neighborhoods, Pinehurst can be a great fit. If you prefer a lively downtown and more varied housing types, Southern Pines often checks those boxes. In both places, you will find family-friendly parks, strong community involvement, and easy access to everyday services.
Ready to compare real homes, estimate commute times, and build a plan around your report date? Reach out to Meese Property Group for a personalized consultation from a team that blends local expertise with proven military relocation systems.
FAQs
How do Pinehurst and Southern Pines compare for a Fort Liberty PCS?
- Both are workable commutes, with Pinehurst offering a resort feel and Southern Pines offering a more active downtown and broader housing options.
What is the commute like from Moore County to Fort Liberty?
- It depends on your gate, route, and duty hours. Map the exact address to your assigned building and test-drive at start times.
Should I rent or buy if my orders are 1 to 2 years?
- Renting usually makes more sense for short tours. Look for flexible lease terms, pet policies, and military clauses.
How do I verify schools in Pinehurst or Southern Pines?
- Check the NC Department of Public Instruction report cards and confirm address-based assignments with the district before signing.
Where will I get medical care after I move?
- Eligible families often use Womack Army Medical Center for military care and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital for local civilian services.
What taxes should I plan for in North Carolina?
- Review the current state income tax with the NC Department of Revenue and estimate property taxes through the Moore County Tax Administration.
