In the Army, your home is so much more than four walls and a roof—it’s your launch pad for mission success, your safe haven after long days, and the place where your family finds comfort, stability, and pride. That’s why the U.S. military makes housing a top priority, offering flexible options and powerful financial support through the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). Knowing your options means you can choose the setup that works best for you—whether you’re a single Soldier, married, or starting a family—and set yourself up to thrive both on and off duty. If you’re married, you’ll even have the opportunity to live in on-base housing, keeping you close to your work, your team, and all the resources you need.
Your Military Housing Options
The Army knows that where you live impacts how you live—and they give you the flexibility to make it work for your lifestyle:
- On-Base Housing: Managed by the Army or trusted privatized partners, this option keeps you close to work and puts everything—from fitness centers to commissaries—right at your fingertips.
- Privatized Housing: Many installations partner with private companies to deliver modern, high-quality homes with full-service maintenance. It’s the best of civilian living, combined with the built-in support of your military community.
- Off-Base Housing: Ready for a little more independence? Use your BAH to rent or buy in the local community. You’ll have the freedom to pick a neighborhood that matches your family’s needs and long-term plans.
What Is BAH—and Why It’s a Game-Changer
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a tax-free benefit designed to cover your housing costs, whether you’re on or off base. Your rate depends on three things:
Location – Where you’re stationed matters, because BAH adjusts to local rental markets.
Rank – Higher ranks receive higher rates.
Dependency Status – You’ll receive more if you have dependents to support.
Pro Tip: BAH rates are updated annually to keep pace with the real-world cost of living—check yours anytime by searching based on your ZIP code. Click here for the latest info based on your zip code.
Why This Matters to You
Your home is where you recharge, where your family grows, and where you prepare to give your best to the mission. The Army knows that when your living situation is stable, your readiness skyrockets—and BAH is designed to make sure you always have safe, suitable, and affordable housing. Whether you plant roots on-post, enjoy the convenience of privatized housing, or explore the freedom of living off base, the Army gives you the tools and resources to build a home that works for you.
Bottom line: Home is where readiness begins—and with the Army’s housing support and BAH benefits, you have everything you need to make it exactly what you want.
I’ll be back with more next week!
Hooah!
SGM Kris Broadus, U.S. Army (Retired)
