MilPayLab2026 BAH rates for your area
Monthly rates for every pay grade in this Military Housing Area. Your grade is highlighted.
| Grade | With dependents | Without dependents |
|---|---|---|
| Enter a ZIP code above to load the table. | ||
How it works
Each ZIP code belongs to a Military Housing Area (MHA). For every MHA, the Department of Defense sets a rate for each pay grade and dependency status, based on median local rents and average utility costs for the type of home civilians with similar incomes rent, minus a 5% member cost-share. The calculator looks up that published rate:
Monthly BAH = Rate table [ MHA of duty station ZIP ] [ pay grade ] [ with / without dependents ]
Annual BAH = Monthly BAH × 12
Source: DTMO 2026 BAH rate tables and ZIP-to-MHA file (data/bah-2026.json).
Example
An E-5 with dependents stationed in a given ZIP code receives the with-dependents E-5 rate for that ZIP's MHA, every month, for as long as the assignment and status stay the same.
Frequently asked questions
Is BAH taxable?
No. BAH is a non-taxable allowance, so it is not subject to federal income tax and is not reported as taxable wages on your W-2.
Does BAH increase with more dependents?
No. The with-dependents rate is the same whether you have one dependent or several. BAH only distinguishes between with and without dependents.
Which ZIP code should I use for BAH?
Use the ZIP code of your permanent duty station, not the ZIP code where you live. BAH is based on housing costs around the location you are assigned to.
What happens if BAH rates go down in my area?
Individual rate protection lets you keep the higher rate as long as you stay at the same duty station and your grade and dependency status do not drop. The new, lower rate applies after you move or your status changes.
When do new BAH rates take effect?
New BAH rates are published each December and take effect on January 1 of the following year.
MilPayLab is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Defense, DTMO, DFAS or the Department of Veterans Affairs. Results are estimates based on published rate tables and are not financial advice. Your finance office and your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) are the final word on what you are paid. Nothing you enter on this page is stored or sent anywhere.