I currently live in Navy base housing with my wife as a civilian, and aside from feeling like I'm active duty, it isn't bad at all. As mentioned, utilities are paid, although they now are implementing a program where if you exceed "average" energy usage you cover the difference. But if you come in below the average they will reimburse you, I think up to $20/month or so. Mx is fantastic, fixing everything promptly and when they say they will (civilian contract, not CE), and the lawn is mowed every week with the bushes, sidewalks and curbs, etc., kept trimmed. I believe we are only responsible for snow removal. Of course the wife has full privileges to the commisary and NEX 2 blocks away, and the neighborhood mini-nex, as well as the base gym, which is really nice. The only thing that could make it better is if the base was in a more desirable area.