Estimate your Basic Allowance for Housing at your next duty station. Official 2026 rates covering all 337 Military Housing Areas, with and without dependents, all ranks, every branch.
Select a Pay Grade to Compare
Select a pay grade to see 2026 BAH rates across all 337 military housing areas.
What is BAH?
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a monthly tax-free benefit paid to service members living off base. Rates are set by rank, duty station zip code, and dependent status, and are designed to cover median housing costs in each area.
BAH & VA Loans
VA loans require $0 down and no PMI, making your BAH go further. At most duty stations, your monthly BAH can cover a full mortgage payment, meaning you can build equity while using your housing allowance.
E-1 Through E-4
Per DoD policy, E-1, E-2, and E-3 often receive the same BAH rate. BAH begins to differentiate meaningfully at E-5 and above in most markets, reflecting seniority and housing market costs.
Warrant Officers
W-1 through W-5 BAH rates fall between senior enlisted and junior officers. W-4 and W-5 rates are generally comparable to O-3, and W-5 approaches O-4 at many locations.
Prior Enlisted Officers
O-1E, O-2E, and O-3E grades apply to officers who served at least four years of enlisted service. They receive higher rates than O-1 through O-3 in recognition of that prior service.
BAH Changes at PCS
Your BAH updates to your new duty station rate when you PCS. Notify finance as soon as you have orders and a report date. There is no waiting period, your new rate kicks in from your report date.
Find a VA Loan Expert at Your Next Duty Station
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