Just Released! Military BAH Rates 2024
Today, 14 Dec 2023, the Department of Defense released the Military Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for 2024. The average, across the board, was an increase of 5.4% over last year. This is slightly less than half of the 12.1% increase we saw last year, this is still a larger increase than the typical 3% - 4% increase. These rates take effect on 1 January 2024.
BAH is a critical component of the U.S. military's compensation system, designed to assist service members in meeting the cost of housing when government quarters are not provided. BAH is calculated based on several factors, including the service member's rank, location, and whether they have dependents. It aims to ensure that military personnel receive adequate financial support to secure suitable housing for themselves and their families. The allowance considers the local cost of living, providing a variable stipend to accommodate the diverse housing expenses across different regions. BAH is meant to cover 95% of a member’s housing costs, as established by defense officials beginning in 2015. BAH not only reflects the commitment of the military to the well-being of its members but also acknowledges the unique challenges associated with military life, where frequent relocations can occur. This housing allowance empowers service members to make housing decisions that best suit their needs and circumstances, fostering stability and resilience within the military community.
There were several areas, depending on rank and dependents that saw their rates increase by more than double digits, while there are a few places that even saw a decline in BAH rates. For areas where rates decline, members will retain the highest BAH while they remain at the duty station, they will not see a reduction in their BAH until their next Permanent Change of Station (PCS). To see what the rates look like in a given area, based on Zip code and pay grade, use the Defense Travel Management Office BAH look up tool.
