Unable to connect locally? Contact Military OneSource via secure live chat or call 800-342-9647.
Luke AFB is in the city of Glendale. The cost of living index in Glendale, Arizona, is roughly 13% higher than the national U.S. average. Overall expenses run slightly above average due to housing, transportation, and utility costs, though healthcare and miscellaneous goods track close to or below national norms.
Index Breakdowns and Averages:
Airlines usually will not ship pets in or out from April to September. It is too hot and it would endanger your pets. If you are relocating during this timeframe, you will need to make arrangements other than shipping your pets by air. Contact your sponsor if you have questions.
If you plan to purchase a home, it is important to note that home prices have dramatically increased in the last couple of years. This has also had an impact on rental prices since more people are renting until they can save enough to afford the down payment.
Bring enough money to ensure you can meet the needs of your relocation. If you intend to live off base, you may need money for deposits. If arriving from overseas, you may need a new vehicle, down payment, auto insurance, etc. Plan ahead. There can also be unexpected expenses that you couldn't have foreseen.
Defense Service Network (DSN) Dialing Instructions
The DSN is the provider of long-distance communications service for the Department of Defense (DoD). Every installation has a DSN number and the numbers vary by world-wide location, Luke AFB DSN is 896. In order to place a call using DSN, the caller must use a military phone on an installation. Cell phones cannot dial DSN numbers. When dialing a DSN number from a United States installation to another United States installation, it is unnecessary to dial the DSN 312 Country Code. When dialing a DSN number to/from overseas locations, the DSN area code must be included.
The area code for Glendale is 623.
Our Mission
We train the world's greatest fighter pilots and combat ready airmen.
Our Vision
The world’s premier fighter wing, advancing airpower to win tomorrow's fight.
The 56th Fighter Wing, headquartered at Luke Air Force Base, Phoenix, AZ, is the largest fighter wing in the United States Air Force. The wing is part of Air Combat Command. The wing also oversees the Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field and is steward of the 1.7 million acre Barry M. Goldwater Military Training Range.
Luke Air Force Base is named for the Phoenix native and first aviator to be awarded the Medal of Honor - 2nd Lt Frank Luke Jr. Luke's 56th Fighter Wing was first activated on January 15, 1941, as the 56th Pursuit Group. The 56th left for England January 6, 1943. During the following two years, pilots of the 56th destroyed more enemy planes and listed more aces than any other Army Air Force group in the 8th Air Force, including the top two aces in Europe. The combat and support operations of the wing in Southeast Asia were numerous and varied. The 56th was reassigned to Luke Air Force Base on April 1, 1994. For further history visit Luke's homepage.
Luke AFB is located in Glendale which has a population of 262,540 (2026). Phoenix metro area has over 5,000,000 residents.
Other cities in the area:
Luke AFB is located in Glendale, Arizona. The local area is very supportive of the military. Located in the Valley of the Sun, individuals stationed at Luke Air Force Base enjoy a dry, moderate climate that is the envy of many, particularly in the winter.
The west valley area of Maricopa County where Luke Air Force Base is located is a fast growing area. If you were here just a few years ago, you will be surprised by the development. If you haven't been here previously, you will be surprised by the newness of almost everything. Luke AFB has fairly easy access to the I-10, Loop 303 and Loop 101 freeways.
Airports
If you are flying into Phoenix, you will fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport or Mesa Gateway Airport. (Mesa Gateway airport is further from the base).
Contact your sponsor to make arrangements for pick up. Commercial transportation is available, prices vary.
If you find yourself lost, contact the Base Command Post at 623-856-5600.
From I-10 Traveling East
Take the Litchfield Road Exit #128 and travel north for approximately 5 miles.
From I-10 Traveling West or from the Airport
Take the Litchfield Road Exit #128 and turn right (north). The base is approximately 5 miles north of the I-10 exit.
From I-17 Traveling South
Exit on to Loop 101 west towards Los Angeles and proceed to the Glendale Avenue, Exit 7B. Turn right (west) on Glendale Avenue. Proceed approximately 5 miles and turn left [south] to get to the South Gate and Visitor's Center.
OR
Continue south on I-17 to I-10 west, turn right (north) at Exit #128, Litchfield Road, travel 5 miles north to Luke AFB.
From I-17 Traveling North Exit 303 westbound to to Luke AFB.
From US 60 East Traveling Southeast through WickenburgFrom US 60, Turn right on Litchfield Road approximately,15 miles east of Wittman. Litchfield Rd provides access to all 3 gates for Luke AFB
Turn right (south) on the Loop 303 freeway, exit off Northern Parkway to Litchfield Rd and continue 2 miles to Luke AFB.
Weigh Station for DITY moves:
Located at Bldg. 948. Hours are Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enter in the south gate and the building will be where you can take your second right. Contact info is 623-856-7715/16/17
The installation does not have a base shuttle. Contact your sponsor to make arrangements for pick up. If you need commercial transportation; ride share services, taxis, limousines and Super Shuttle vans are available, prices vary.