2026 Rates
BAH Calculator
Look up your 2026 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates by military duty station and pay grade. BAH is a tax-free housing allowance paid to active duty service members in all branches of the U.S. military.
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Monthly BAH
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Select a location to see BAH rates
What's Your Total Compensation Worth?
See how your military pay (base + BAH + BAS) compares to civilian salaries.
Military to Civilian CalculatorHow BAH Works
What Determines Your BAH?
- •Location: Based on Military Housing Area (MHA) where you're stationed
- •Pay Grade: Higher ranks receive higher BAH
- •Dependency Status: Members with dependents receive higher rates
Key BAH Facts
- •Tax-Free: BAH is not subject to federal or state income tax
- •Rate Protection: Your rate won't decrease while at the same location with same status
- •Annual Updates: Rates change January 1st each year
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BAH with and without dependents?
BAH with dependents is a higher rate paid to service members who have a spouse, children, or other qualifying dependents. The rate difference can be $200-$1,000+ per month depending on location and pay grade.
Do I get BAH if I live in base housing?
No. If you live in government-provided housing on base, you do not receive BAH. Your housing is considered your compensation. If you move off-base, you'll start receiving BAH.
Can my BAH rate go down?
BAH has "rate protection" - your rate won't decrease as long as you stay in the same location with the same dependency status, even if area rates decrease. However, if you PCS or your dependency status changes, you'll get the current year's rate.
Why is my location not listed?
Smaller installations may fall under a nearby MHA or County Cost Group. Search for the nearest major city or base. Areas without specific MHAs use regional cost group rates.
Related Military Calculators
2026 BAH rates are based on DoD published data. Rates are updated annually on January 1st. Individual circumstances may vary. This calculator is for informational purposes only. Consult your finance office for official BAH determinations.