BAH Calculator

Estimate Basic Allowance for Housing by pay grade, location, and dependents.
Dependents

Monthly BAH

$2,720.00

Annual BAH

$32,640.00

BAH Details

Monthly Amount$2,720.00
Annual Amount$32,640.00
Tax StatusTax-Free

Use the BAH Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Our BAH Calculator provides an estimated Basic Allowance for Housing based on your pay grade, duty station location, and dependency status. This crucial allowance helps military members afford housing in the civilian market, offsetting the cost of living where they are stationed. Understanding your potential BAH for 2026 is vital for financial planning, especially with projected increases and decreases across various locations.

The calculator utilizes the official Department of Defense (DoD) BAH rate tables for 2026. These rates are determined by a comprehensive survey of rental housing costs for various housing types (e.g., apartments, townhouses, single-family homes) in specific Military Housing Areas (MHAs). Your pay grade and dependency status dictate the specific rate cell you fall into, directly impacting the calculated BAH amount.

Remember that BAH is an estimate; actual rates can be influenced by specific housing types available and your individual lease agreement. Don't confuse BAH with OHA (Overseas Housing Allowance) or with the actual cost of rent in a given area. A common mistake is assuming BAH will cover 100% of all housing costs, including utilities, which it does not always do.

Example: E-5 with Dependents in San Diego, CA (2026)

  1. 1 Input: Pay Grade = E-5, Location = San Diego, CA, Dependents = Yes.
  2. 2 The calculator references the 2026 BAH rate table for San Diego, CA (MHA CA030) for an E-5 with dependents. It retrieves the corresponding BAH amount for this specific combination.
  3. 3 Result: Estimated BAH for an E-5 with dependents in San Diego, CA for 2026 is $3,219 per month.
  4. 4 This $3,219 per month would be added to the E-5's base pay, providing funds specifically for housing expenses in the San Diego area. This allows the service member to budget for rent, but they should also consider utility costs and other housing-related expenses.

Source: DFAS · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How is BAH calculated for military members?
BAH is based on your pay grade, duty station zip code, and dependent status. The Department of Defense surveys local rental costs annually to set rates that cover median rent, utilities, and renter's insurance for each area.
Is BAH taxable income?
No. Basic Allowance for Housing is not subject to federal income tax, state tax, or FICA. This tax-free status makes BAH more valuable than an equivalent amount of base pay, effectively increasing your after-tax compensation.
Do I lose BAH if I live in base housing?
Yes. If you live in on-base housing, your BAH is typically forfeited to cover the housing costs. If you live off-base, you receive BAH directly and use it to pay your own rent and utilities. The choice depends on local housing costs.

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