Choosing the perfect base in Project Zomboid is crucial for long-term survival. Some locations provide incredible safety, while others offer rich looting opportunities. If you’re looking for an awesome and unique base to call home, this guide explores 11 standout locations, each with distinct advantages and challenges.

---

1. The Roof of the Grand Ohio Mall (Louisville)

A high-rise fortress, this rooftop base offers unparalleled security with only one entrance—a single staircase. The mall below has everything you could ever need, including multiple gun stores, restaurants, and an art gallery.

• Pros:
  • Large, customizable rooftop space.
  • Natural choke point for defending against zombies.
  • Huge looting potential within the mall.
• Cons:
  • No ladders in Project Zomboid, so the stairs cannot be destroyed.
  • Highly populated zombie area.
  • Water collection is essential.

---

2. The Ferry (Northwest Corner of the Map)

A truly unique floating fortress, the ferry is located in an unfinished part of the game world. While the surrounding town lacks loot, the ferry itself is a multi-story safe haven.

• Pros:
  • Large open spaces for customization.
  • Built-in bar and kitchen.
  • High-security doors with lockable areas.
• Cons:
  • Requires a car and gas for supply runs.
  • Sparse surrounding loot areas.

---

3. The Lumberyard (Muldraugh)

A dream base for carpenters, this massive compound provides endless wood and secure fences.

• Pros:
  • Largest compound in the game with built-in walls.
  • Unlimited supply of logs.
  • Close to warehouses full of tools.
• Cons:
  • Large open space requires reinforcement.
  • High zombie activity on nearby roads.

---

4. The Muldraugh Relay Station

For those who prefer a simpler, more peaceful base, this small fenced compound is perfect. It provides a balance between security and accessibility.

• Pros:
  • One easily secured entrance.
  • Large surrounding forests for lumber and hunting.
  • Perfect for small-scale farming.
• Cons:
  • Minimal pre-existing structures.
  • Limited initial supplies.

---

5. The Abandoned Factory (Northwest of the Map)

This sprawling, dilapidated factory offers vast amounts of space for creative base-building, making it ideal for a large-scale renovation project.

• Pros:
  • Enormous interior space for custom base-building.
  • Rooftop potential for farming.
  • Multiple floors for added security.
• Cons:
  • Very dark interior, requiring artificial lighting.
  • Initial zombie clearing needed.

---

6. The Military Fort (Northeast Corner of the Map)

A hidden military fort, surrounded by high walls, providing incredible security. This location is perfect for those who want a stronghold but don’t mind traveling for supplies.

• Pros:
  • Extremely secure with only two entrances.
  • Large courtyard for farming and storage.
  • Iconic “last stand” location feel.
• Cons:
  • Very isolated, making supply runs difficult.
  • Sparse initial loot.

---

7. The Lakeside Church (South of Riverside)

A beautiful and peaceful base with a water source right outside, perfect for fishing and long-term survival.

• Pros:
  • Scenic lake provides fishing and water collection.
  • Nearby stores offer a good mix of loot.
  • Expandable roof space.
• Cons:
  • Open floor plan limits security.
  • Potential zombie migration from nearby Riverside.

---

8. The Scarlet Oak Distillery (Louisville)

A massive industrial compound protected by indestructible fences, offering an ideal urban fortress in the heart of Louisville.

• Pros:
  • Three interconnected buildings for storage and defense.
  • Surrounded by tall, indestructible fences.
  • Close to gas stations and supply routes.
• Cons:
  • Glass windows must be barricaded.
  • Large space requires extensive organization.

---

9. The Train Yard (Edge of Louisville)

A massive industrial area with great potential for base-building, featuring huge storage rooms and connected buildings.

• Pros:
  • Secure fenced surroundings.
  • Military checkpoint nearby for loot.
  • Large warehouse space for storage and customization.
• Cons:
  • Many entrances require fortification.
  • Can be overwhelming due to sheer size.

---

10. The Rural Farmhouses (West Side of the Map)

A quiet and secluded location with a built-in farm, offering a low-maintenance survival lifestyle.

• Pros:
  • Comes with a pre-made farm.
  • Large fences for easy security.
  • Near a gun store and camping supply store.
• Cons:
  • Minimal nearby looting opportunities.
  • Requires vehicle access for supply runs.

---

11. The Military Surplus Store (West Side of the Map)

For those who love firepower, this military surplus store is an armory-lover’s paradise, filled with guns, food, and protective gear.

• Pros:
  • Stocked with military-grade weapons and ammo.
  • Nearby gas station and repair shop for vehicle maintenance.
  • Reinforced security rooms for safe sleeping.
• Cons:
  • Unbarricaded windows make it vulnerable.
  • High chance of zombie activity.

---

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Base

Each of these locations brings something unique to the table, whether it’s high security, great loot access, or a peaceful lifestyle. Whether you’re playing solo or with a group, there’s a base here for every type of survivor.

If you’re looking for maximum security, the Military Fort or Scarlet Oak Distillery are excellent choices. If you want urban convenience, try the Grand Ohio Mall. And if you prefer secluded survival, the Ferry or Lakeside Churchoffer peaceful retreats.