Military BAH Calculator (2024 Estimator)
National Average (Standard)
San Diego, CA (MHA: CA048)
Washington, DC / Pentagon (MHA: DC001)
Norfolk / Virginia Beach, VA (MHA: VA294)
Killeen / Fort Cavazos, TX (MHA: TX226)
Honolulu, HI (MHA: HI163)
Jacksonville, FL (MHA: FL077)
Seattle, WA (MHA: WA274)
E-1 to E-4
E-5
E-6
E-7
E-8
E-9
W-1
W-2
W-3
O-1E
O-2E
O-3E
O-1
O-2
O-3
O-4
O-5
O-6
Without Dependents (Single)
With Dependents
Base Rate Category:
MHA Location Factor:
Dependency Adjustment:
Estimated Monthly BAH:
How the Military BAH Calculator Works
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a U.S. based entitlement prescribed by geographic duty location, pay grade, and dependency status. It provides uniformed service members equitable housing compensation based on housing costs in local civilian housing markets.
Key Factors in BAH Calculation
- Pay Grade: Your rank significantly impacts the amount of housing allowance you receive. Higher ranks generally receive a higher BAH to account for the expectation of larger living spaces.
- Location (MHA): This is the most volatile factor. BAH is calculated based on the median rental costs and utility prices in a specific Military Housing Area (MHA). High-cost areas like San Diego or DC offer significantly more than rural base locations.
- Dependency Status: Service members with at least one legal dependent (spouse or child) receive a higher rate ("With Dependents") compared to those without dependents ("Without Dependents").
2024 BAH Examples
| Rank | Location | Status | Estimated Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-5 | San Diego, CA | With Dependents | $3,600+ |
| O-3 | Norfolk, VA | Without Dependents | $2,300+ |
| E-7 | Fort Cavazos, TX | With Dependents | $1,800+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does BAH cover all my rent?
BAH is designed to cover approximately 95% of housing and utility costs for the average member in a given area. The remaining 5% is considered an out-of-pocket expense.
What if I live on base?
Generally, if you live in privatized military housing, your entire BAH is automatically deducted to cover the rent and basic utilities.
Does BAH change if I get promoted?
Yes, a promotion typically results in an increase in your BAH rate. However, if BAH rates for your area decrease in a given year, "Rate Protection" ensures you keep the higher rate as long as you remain at the same duty station and rank.