2026 California BAH Rates

Rates and VA Loan Buying Power

2026 California BAH Rates and VA Loan Buying Power

Written by: Matt SchwartzNMLS#151017By Matt Schwartz (NMLS 151017)

Reviewed by: VA Loan Network Editorial TeamReviewed: VALN Editorial Team

Updated on September 27, 2026

Primary sources:
DoD BAH Lookup

VA Home Loan Overview

California has 26 Military Housing Areas. E-5 with-dependents BAH ranges from $1,563 to $5,127 per month; E-6 with dependents ranges from $1,767 to $5,454. Buying-power assumptions are stated below the table.

Next step:
Check Your VA Loan Eligibility

Table 1. California Military Housing Areas at a glance
MHA	E-5 w/dep	E-6 w/dep	E-6 buying power
OAKLAND, CA	$3,759	$4,113	~$475,000
SAN FRANCISCO, CA	$5,127	$5,454	~$625,000
CHINA LAKE, CA	$1,563	$1,767	~$205,000
FRESNO, CA	$2,439	$2,826	~$325,000
LEMOORE NAS, CA	$2,139	$2,277	~$260,000
CAMP PENDLETON, CA	$3,963	$4,398	~$505,000
VENTURA, CA	$3,537	$4,008	~$460,000
VANDENBERG SFB, CA	$3,333	$3,642	~$420,000
MARIN/SONOMA, CA	$3,303	$3,819	~$440,000
BARSTOW/FORT IRWIN, CA	$2,001	$2,430	~$280,000
SAN BERNARDINO, CA	$3,288	$3,381	~$390,000
TWENTY NINE PALMS MCB, CA	$1,980	$2,550	~$295,000
BEALE AFB, CA	$2,967	$3,132	~$360,000
SACRAMENTO, CA	$2,904	$2,979	~$345,000
STOCKTON, CA	$2,553	$2,934	~$340,000
VALLEJO/TRAVIS AFB, CA	$3,369	$3,498	~$400,000
LOS ANGELES, CA	$3,882	$4,188	~$480,000
SAN DIEGO, CA	$3,975	$4,404	~$505,000
MONTEREY, CA	$3,465	$3,867	~$445,000
RIVERSIDE, CA	$3,351	$3,549	~$410,000
HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CA	$1,827	$2,322	~$265,000
SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA	$4,659	$4,977	~$575,000
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA	$3,198	$3,948	~$455,000
BRIDGEPORT, CA	$2,085	$2,805	~$325,000
EL CENTRO, CA	$1,986	$2,151	~$245,000
EDWARDS AFB/PALMDALE, CA	$2,658	$3,156	~$365,000

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Step 1 of 6 Your BAH

STEP 01 · YOUR BAH

What's your monthly BAH?

Find it on your LES, listed as "BAH" in entitlements. Or pick your state below to find a base.

OR PICK YOUR STATE

Select a state above to see common bases

STEP 02 · DEPENDENTS

Do you have dependents?

Spouse, children, or other qualifying dependents. Affects lender qualification.

STEP 03 · CREDIT RANGE

Roughly, where's your credit?

No exact number needed. Many VA lenders go below 580, most banks won't tell you that.

680+

Strong VA rates · Most lenders

540 620 680 740 800

STEP 04 · TIMELINE

When are you thinking of buying?

YOUR BUYING POWER

Your BAH buys you a home worth this much.

ESTIMATED HOME PRICE

With $0 down and your VA benefit

▸Estimated VA rate

—

▸Down payment

▸Funding fee (financed)

—

▸Estimated monthly payment

—

▸BAH surplus per month

—

Want a real quote from a VA specialist?

ALMOST THERE

Where can we reach you?

A specialist personally reviews your numbers and reaches out within one business day.

First name

Last name

Phone

✓

You're all set.

A VA loan specialist will personally review your BAH analysis and reach out within one business day.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

A real specialist (not a call center) will email or call with your exact rate quote, funding fee details, and homes in your price range near your duty station. No pressure, no spam.

2026 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates by state and base — E-5 reference

Alaska (AK) BAH rates 2026

JB Elmendorf-Richardson: E-5 with dependents: $1,851/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,581/mo.
Fort Wainwright: E-5 with dependents: $1,722/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,494/mo.
Eielson AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,638/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,428/mo.

Alabama (AL) BAH rates 2026

Fort Rucker: E-5 with dependents: $1,554/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,338/mo.
Maxwell AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,503/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,311/mo.
Anniston: E-5 with dependents: $1,389/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,212/mo.

Arkansas (AR) BAH rates 2026

Little Rock AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,389/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,209/mo.
Pine Bluff Arsenal: E-5 with dependents: $1,305/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,140/mo.

Arizona (AZ) BAH rates 2026

Fort Huachuca: E-5 with dependents: $1,470/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,257/mo.
Luke AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,818/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,539/mo.
Davis-Monthan AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,665/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,419/mo.
MCAS Yuma: E-5 with dependents: $1,632/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,410/mo.

California (CA) BAH rates 2026

Camp Pendleton: E-5 with dependents: $3,645/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,294/mo.
San Diego: E-5 with dependents: $3,789/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,402/mo.
Travis AFB: E-5 with dependents: $2,790/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,469/mo.
Beale AFB: E-5 with dependents: $2,052/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,809/mo.
NB Coronado: E-5 with dependents: $3,789/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,402/mo.
Vandenberg SFB: E-5 with dependents: $2,418/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,148/mo.
Edwards AFB: E-5 with dependents: $2,070/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,797/mo.
NB Ventura County: E-5 with dependents: $3,354/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,000/mo.
Twentynine Palms: E-5 with dependents: $1,989/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,746/mo.
Fort Irwin: E-5 with dependents: $1,923/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,689/mo.

Colorado (CO) BAH rates 2026

Colorado Springs (Fort Carson): E-5 with dependents: $2,364/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,079/mo.
Peterson SFB: E-5 with dependents: $2,364/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,079/mo.
USAFA: E-5 with dependents: $2,364/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,079/mo.
Buckley SFB: E-5 with dependents: $2,487/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,196/mo.
Fort Carson: E-5 with dependents: $2,364/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,079/mo.

Connecticut (CT) BAH rates 2026

NSB New London: E-5 with dependents: $2,256/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,989/mo.
Stratford: E-5 with dependents: $2,598/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,298/mo.

District of Columbia (DC) BAH rates 2026

JB Anacostia-Bolling: E-5 with dependents: $2,997/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,613/mo.
Naval Observatory: E-5 with dependents: $2,997/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,613/mo.

Delaware (DE) BAH rates 2026

Dover AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,944/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,707/mo.

Florida (FL) BAH rates 2026

Jacksonville: E-5 with dependents: $1,986/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,761/mo.
NAS Pensacola: E-5 with dependents: $1,734/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,503/mo.
Eglin AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,842/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,611/mo.
Tyndall AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,803/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,581/mo.
MacDill AFB: E-5 with dependents: $2,238/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,956/mo.
Patrick SFB: E-5 with dependents: $2,304/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,004/mo.
NAS Whiting Field: E-5 with dependents: $1,521/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,308/mo.
NAS Key West: E-5 with dependents: $3,138/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,748/mo.
Hurlburt Field: E-5 with dependents: $1,842/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,611/mo.
NSA Panama City: E-5 with dependents: $1,722/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,494/mo.

Georgia (GA) BAH rates 2026

Fort Stewart: E-5 with dependents: $1,659/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,437/mo.
Fort Benning/Moore: E-5 with dependents: $1,542/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,326/mo.
Fort Gordon/Eisenhower: E-5 with dependents: $1,488/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,290/mo.
Robins AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,467/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,278/mo.
Hunter AAF: E-5 with dependents: $1,659/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,437/mo.
Moody AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,410/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,230/mo.
Kings Bay NSB: E-5 with dependents: $1,593/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,377/mo.
Dobbins ARB: E-5 with dependents: $1,740/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,521/mo.

Hawaii (HI) BAH rates 2026

Honolulu (Schofield/Pearl): E-5 with dependents: $3,516/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,024/mo.
JBPHH: E-5 with dependents: $3,516/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,024/mo.
MCBH Kaneohe: E-5 with dependents: $3,516/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,024/mo.
Wheeler AAF: E-5 with dependents: $3,516/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,024/mo.

Iowa (IA) BAH rates 2026

Camp Dodge: E-5 with dependents: $1,311/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,146/mo.

Idaho (ID) BAH rates 2026

Mountain Home AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,494/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,308/mo.

Illinois (IL) BAH rates 2026

Naval Station Great Lakes: E-5 with dependents: $2,154/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,875/mo.
Scott AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,656/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,455/mo.
Rock Island Arsenal: E-5 with dependents: $1,377/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,206/mo.

Indiana (IN) BAH rates 2026

Crane NSWC: E-5 with dependents: $1,257/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,098/mo.
Grissom ARB: E-5 with dependents: $1,281/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,119/mo.

Kansas (KS) BAH rates 2026

Fort Riley: E-5 with dependents: $1,428/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,248/mo.
Fort Leavenworth: E-5 with dependents: $1,647/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,437/mo.
McConnell AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,410/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,233/mo.

Kentucky (KY) BAH rates 2026

Fort Campbell: E-5 with dependents: $1,671/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,452/mo.
Fort Knox: E-5 with dependents: $1,521/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,326/mo.

Louisiana (LA) BAH rates 2026

Fort Polk/Johnson: E-5 with dependents: $1,392/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,212/mo.
Barksdale AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,503/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,308/mo.
NAS JRB New Orleans: E-5 with dependents: $1,761/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,539/mo.

Massachusetts (MA) BAH rates 2026

Hanscom AFB: E-5 with dependents: $3,030/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,658/mo.
Boston: E-5 with dependents: $3,309/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,895/mo.
Westover ARB: E-5 with dependents: $1,788/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,551/mo.
JB Cape Cod: E-5 with dependents: $2,517/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,196/mo.

Maryland (MD) BAH rates 2026

Fort Meade: E-5 with dependents: $2,496/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,178/mo.
Aberdeen Proving Ground: E-5 with dependents: $2,274/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,971/mo.
Andrews AFB: E-5 with dependents: $2,640/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,304/mo.
NAS Patuxent River: E-5 with dependents: $2,238/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,947/mo.
Annapolis: E-5 with dependents: $2,526/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,208/mo.
Fort Detrick: E-5 with dependents: $2,049/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,788/mo.

Maine (ME) BAH rates 2026

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard: E-5 with dependents: $2,325/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,031/mo.
Brunswick: E-5 with dependents: $1,854/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,626/mo.

Michigan (MI) BAH rates 2026

Selfridge ANGB: E-5 with dependents: $1,635/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,428/mo.
Detroit: E-5 with dependents: $1,635/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,428/mo.

Minnesota (MN) BAH rates 2026

Duluth: E-5 with dependents: $1,494/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,308/mo.
Minneapolis-St. Paul: E-5 with dependents: $1,851/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,614/mo.

Missouri (MO) BAH rates 2026

Whiteman AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,338/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,170/mo.
Fort Leonard Wood: E-5 with dependents: $1,395/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,218/mo.
St. Louis: E-5 with dependents: $1,719/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,500/mo.

Mississippi (MS) BAH rates 2026

Keesler AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,683/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,467/mo.
Columbus AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,305/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,146/mo.
Meridian NAS: E-5 with dependents: $1,314/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,149/mo.
Camp Shelby: E-5 with dependents: $1,335/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,170/mo.

Montana (MT) BAH rates 2026

Malmstrom AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,605/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,407/mo.

North Carolina (NC) BAH rates 2026

Fort Bragg/Liberty: E-5 with dependents: $1,956/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,737/mo.
Camp Lejeune: E-5 with dependents: $1,638/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,422/mo.
Fort Bragg/Pope: E-5 with dependents: $1,956/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,737/mo.
Seymour Johnson AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,407/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,224/mo.
Cherry Point MCAS: E-5 with dependents: $1,521/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,320/mo.
New River MCAS: E-5 with dependents: $1,638/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,422/mo.

North Dakota (ND) BAH rates 2026

Minot AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,497/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,308/mo.
Grand Forks AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,407/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,230/mo.

Nebraska (NE) BAH rates 2026

Offutt AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,656/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,452/mo.

New Hampshire (NH) BAH rates 2026

Pease ANGB: E-5 with dependents: $2,553/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,229/mo.

New Jersey (NJ) BAH rates 2026

JB McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst: E-5 with dependents: $2,304/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,007/mo.
Picatinny Arsenal: E-5 with dependents: $2,766/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,415/mo.
NWS Earle: E-5 with dependents: $2,535/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,208/mo.

New Mexico (NM) BAH rates 2026

Kirtland AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,602/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,395/mo.
Cannon AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,290/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,131/mo.
Holloman AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,326/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,158/mo.
White Sands: E-5 with dependents: $1,356/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,188/mo.

Nevada (NV) BAH rates 2026

Nellis AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,962/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,716/mo.
NAS Fallon: E-5 with dependents: $1,659/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,452/mo.
Creech AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,962/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,716/mo.

New York (NY) BAH rates 2026

Fort Drum: E-5 with dependents: $1,635/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,416/mo.
West Point: E-5 with dependents: $2,526/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,199/mo.
NYC Metro: E-5 with dependents: $4,602/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,996/mo.
Fort Hamilton: E-5 with dependents: $4,602/mo. E-5 without dependents: $3,996/mo.
Niagara Falls ARS: E-5 with dependents: $1,500/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,311/mo.
Watervliet Arsenal: E-5 with dependents: $1,716/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,497/mo.

Ohio (OH) BAH rates 2026

Wright-Patterson AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,701/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,485/mo.
Youngstown ARS: E-5 with dependents: $1,296/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,131/mo.

Oklahoma (OK) BAH rates 2026

Fort Sill: E-5 with dependents: $1,395/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,218/mo.
Tinker AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,671/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,461/mo.
Vance AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,308/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,140/mo.
Altus AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,308/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,140/mo.

Oregon (OR) BAH rates 2026

Portland ANGB: E-5 with dependents: $2,316/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,025/mo.
Klamath Falls: E-5 with dependents: $1,407/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,230/mo.

Pennsylvania (PA) BAH rates 2026

Carlisle Barracks: E-5 with dependents: $1,707/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,494/mo.
Tobyhanna Army Depot: E-5 with dependents: $1,581/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,380/mo.
Letterkenny: E-5 with dependents: $1,518/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,326/mo.
Philadelphia: E-5 with dependents: $2,304/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,007/mo.

Rhode Island (RI) BAH rates 2026

NS Newport: E-5 with dependents: $2,592/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,271/mo.

South Carolina (SC) BAH rates 2026

Fort Jackson: E-5 with dependents: $1,599/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,395/mo.
Shaw AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,431/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,248/mo.
MCAS Beaufort: E-5 with dependents: $1,875/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,632/mo.
Charleston JB: E-5 with dependents: $2,046/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,788/mo.
Parris Island: E-5 with dependents: $1,875/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,632/mo.

South Dakota (SD) BAH rates 2026

Ellsworth AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,542/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,344/mo.

Tennessee (TN) BAH rates 2026

Arnold AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,395/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,221/mo.
Memphis NAS: E-5 with dependents: $1,473/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,287/mo.
Nashville: E-5 with dependents: $1,962/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,716/mo.

Texas (TX) BAH rates 2026

Fort Cavazos: E-5 with dependents: $1,827/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,614/mo.
JBSA San Antonio: E-5 with dependents: $1,818/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,593/mo.
Fort Bliss: E-5 with dependents: $1,326/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,158/mo.
Lackland AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,818/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,593/mo.
Randolph AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,818/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,593/mo.
NAS Corpus Christi: E-5 with dependents: $1,497/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,308/mo.
NAS Kingsville: E-5 with dependents: $1,455/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,269/mo.
Sheppard AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,392/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,218/mo.
Dyess AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,419/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,245/mo.
Goodfellow AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,407/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,230/mo.
Laughlin AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,335/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,170/mo.
NAS JRB Fort Worth: E-5 with dependents: $1,788/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,560/mo.

Utah (UT) BAH rates 2026

Hill AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,860/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,626/mo.
Dugway Proving Ground: E-5 with dependents: $1,530/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,338/mo.

Virginia (VA) BAH rates 2026

Norfolk: E-5 with dependents: $2,334/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,052/mo.
Fort Belvoir: E-5 with dependents: $2,997/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,613/mo.
Quantico: E-5 with dependents: $2,697/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,358/mo.
Fort Lee/Gregg-Adams: E-5 with dependents: $1,881/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,635/mo.
JB Langley-Eustis: E-5 with dependents: $1,908/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,671/mo.
Pentagon: E-5 with dependents: $2,997/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,613/mo.
Dahlgren NSF: E-5 with dependents: $2,169/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,899/mo.
Oceana NAS: E-5 with dependents: $2,334/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,052/mo.

Vermont (VT) BAH rates 2026

Burlington: E-5 with dependents: $1,860/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,626/mo.

Washington (WA) BAH rates 2026

JB Lewis-McChord: E-5 with dependents: $2,520/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,241/mo.
Bremerton/Kitsap: E-5 with dependents: $2,769/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,451/mo.
NS Everett: E-5 with dependents: $2,769/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,451/mo.
NAS Whidbey Island: E-5 with dependents: $2,535/mo. E-5 without dependents: $2,244/mo.
Fairchild AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,632/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,428/mo.
Yakima Training Center: E-5 with dependents: $1,545/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,350/mo.

Wisconsin (WI) BAH rates 2026

Fort McCoy: E-5 with dependents: $1,281/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,119/mo.
Milwaukee: E-5 with dependents: $1,689/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,473/mo.

West Virginia (WV) BAH rates 2026

Camp Dawson: E-5 with dependents: $1,305/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,140/mo.

Wyoming (WY) BAH rates 2026

F.E. Warren AFB: E-5 with dependents: $1,581/mo. E-5 without dependents: $1,380/mo.

California BAH Snapshot

MHA count: 26 Military Housing Areas
E-5 w/dep range: $1,563 to $5,127/mo
E-6 w/dep range: $1,767 to $5,454/mo
Buying power range: ~$180,000 to ~$625,000

How BAH Counts for VA Loans

Tax-free income: BAH is excluded from gross income. 26 USC 134(a) Lenders may count it at 125 percent for the debt-to-income ratio, a 25 percent gross-up. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Debt-to-Income Ratio
LES verification: The lender must verify the BAH amount; allowances are documented on the LES. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Analysis of Military Quarters Allowance/BAH
Rate protection: The monthly BAH amount may not be reduced while the member retains uninterrupted eligibility within an area. 37 USC 403(b)(6)
Dependent status: The statute establishes separate rates for members with and without dependents. 37 USC 403(b)(5) With-dependents rates are higher at every grade in every MHA.

Highest BAH in Texas

SAN FRANCISCO, CA: E-6 w/dep $5,454/mo, ~$625,000 buying power
SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA: E-6 w/dep $4,977/mo, ~$575,000 buying power
SAN DIEGO, CA: E-6 w/dep $4,404/mo, ~$505,000 buying power
CAMP PENDLETON, CA: E-6 w/dep $4,398/mo, ~$505,000 buying power

Lowest BAH in Texas

CHINA LAKE, CA: E-6 w/dep $1,767/mo, ~$205,000 buying power
EL CENTRO, CA: E-6 w/dep $2,151/mo, ~$245,000 buying power
LEMOORE NAS, CA: E-6 w/dep $2,277/mo, ~$260,000 buying power
HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CA: E-6 w/dep $2,322/mo, ~$265,000 buying power

The Bottom Line Up Front

California BAH rates vary by more than $3,687 per month at E-6 with dependents. The highest rate is $5,454 (SAN FRANCISCO, CA) and the lowest is $1,767 (CHINA LAKE, CA). That spread translates to a buying-power difference of roughly $420,000 at current VA loan terms.

How to Use California BAH Rates for a VA Loan

Verify your BAH on your LES. The lender must verify the BAH amount before counting it as income. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Analysis of Military Quarters Allowance/BAH
Confirm your MHA. Your BAH is set by the Military Housing Area assigned to your duty station, not your home address. 37 USC 403(b)(2)
Ask about the gross-up. Because BAH is tax free, lenders may count it at 125 percent for the debt-to-income ratio. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Debt-to-Income Ratio
Compare the buying-power estimates. Use the table above to see how your MHA and rank translate to an approximate home price, then get a personalized preapproval from a VA lender.

What to Do Based on Your Situation

PCS-ing to California: Your BAH changes to the gaining station’s MHA rate. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Analysis of Military Quarters Allowance/BAH Use the new rate with your orders to start a preapproval before you arrive.
Already stationed in California: Your BAH amount may not be reduced while you retain uninterrupted eligibility within the area, even if published rates drop. 37 USC 403(b)(6)
Separating from service: BAH stops when active-duty status ends. If you plan to buy before separation, verify the BAH amount on your current LES and close while you are still receiving it. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Analysis of Military Quarters Allowance/BAH

California Housing Costs and BAH Impact

California has some of the highest housing costs in the country, especially in metro areas like San Diego, Los Angeles, and the Bay Area. In contrast, Military towns such as Twentynine Palms, Lemoore, and Ridgecrest offer more affordable options.

BAH is one piece of the income picture. When you apply for a VA loan, the lender evaluates your debt-to-income ratio and residual income alongside your housing allowance. Because BAH is excluded from gross income, lenders may count it at 125 percent for the debt-to-income ratio. 26 USC 134(a) VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Debt-to-Income Ratio

For a broader look at homebuying in this state, see the California VA loan guide.

Explore More BAH Insights

2026 BAH Rates by City: Official tables by city and MHA
How BAH Affects VA Loan Buying Power: How the allowance converts to qualifying income
Dual Military BAH and VA Loans: How dual-Military couples combine BAH
BAH After Active Duty: Using BAH after separation for a VA loan
Highest BAH Cities 2026: Cities with the largest BAH rates
BAH vs PITI Coverage: How BAH compares to the full mortgage payment
Buy or Rent at PCS: Using BAH to decide between buying and renting
BAH Gross-Up Explained: How the 125 percent gross-up works

California BAH Rates by Military Housing Area

Each block below holds the full pay-grade table, buying power by rank, and, when available, ZIP codes. Buying power assumes 6.5 percent rate, 30-year term, 2.15 percent VA funding fee financed, zero down payment, California property tax at 0.70 percent (2023 ACS), homeowners insurance at 0.21 percent of home value (2022 III/NAIC), and PITI capped at 83 percent of BAH with dependents (VALN assumption, not a VA or DoD rule).

OAKLAND, CA (MHA CA018): E-5 w/dep $3,759, E-6 w/dep $4,113, ~$475,000 buying power

OAKLAND, CA BAH Rates

Table 2. 2026 BAH rates for OAKLAND, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,471	$2,667
E-2	$3,471	$2,667
E-3	$3,471	$2,667
E-4	$3,471	$2,667
E-5	$3,759	$3,000
E-6	$4,113	$3,213
E-7	$4,203	$3,483
E-8	$4,299	$3,834
E-9	$4,488	$3,933
W-1	$4,134	$3,378
W-2	$4,242	$3,831
W-3	$4,365	$3,948
W-4	$4,533	$4,131
W-5	$4,740	$4,224
O-1E	$4,218	$3,756
O-2E	$4,344	$3,912
O-3E	$4,566	$4,107
O-1	$3,807	$3,180
O-2	$4,110	$3,666
O-3	$4,362	$3,981
O-4	$4,809	$4,203
O-5	$5,133	$4,254
O-6	$5,178	$4,341
O-7	$5,220	$4,419

OAKLAND, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,759): ~$430,000 home, PITI ~$3,102/mo
E-6 w/dep ($4,113): ~$475,000 home, PITI ~$3,427/mo
E-7 w/dep ($4,203): ~$485,000 home, PITI ~$3,499/mo
O-3 w/dep ($4,362): ~$500,000 home, PITI ~$3,607/mo

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (MHA CA019): E-5 w/dep $5,127, E-6 w/dep $5,454, ~$625,000 buying power

SAN FRANCISCO, CA BAH Rates

Table 3. 2026 BAH rates for SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$4,764	$3,573
E-2	$4,764	$3,573
E-3	$4,764	$3,573
E-4	$4,764	$3,573
E-5	$5,127	$4,086
E-6	$5,454	$4,443
E-7	$5,490	$4,782
E-8	$5,529	$5,196
E-9	$5,799	$5,286
W-1	$5,472	$4,644
W-2	$5,505	$5,193
W-3	$5,559	$5,301
W-4	$5,892	$5,454
W-5	$6,297	$5,496
O-1E	$5,493	$5,124
O-2E	$5,547	$5,268
O-3E	$5,955	$5,445
O-1	$5,172	$4,401
O-2	$5,451	$5,007
O-3	$5,556	$5,331
O-4	$6,444	$5,481
O-5	$7,089	$5,499
O-6	$7,155	$5,532
O-7	$7,215	$5,634

SAN FRANCISCO, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($5,127): ~$590,000 home, PITI ~$4,257/mo
E-6 w/dep ($5,454): ~$625,000 home, PITI ~$4,509/mo
E-7 w/dep ($5,490): ~$630,000 home, PITI ~$4,545/mo
O-3 w/dep ($5,556): ~$640,000 home, PITI ~$4,618/mo

CHINA LAKE, CA (MHA CA021): E-5 w/dep $1,563, E-6 w/dep $1,767, ~$205,000 buying power

CHINA LAKE, CA BAH Rates

Table 4. 2026 BAH rates for CHINA LAKE, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$1,524	$1,344
E-2	$1,524	$1,344
E-3	$1,524	$1,344
E-4	$1,524	$1,344
E-5	$1,563	$1,428
E-6	$1,767	$1,485
E-7	$1,905	$1,530
E-8	$2,058	$1,611
E-9	$2,238	$1,680
W-1	$1,785	$1,527
W-2	$1,968	$1,608
W-3	$2,157	$1,683
W-4	$2,268	$1,794
W-5	$2,403	$1,941
O-1E	$1,932	$1,560
O-2E	$2,130	$1,650
O-3E	$2,289	$1,755
O-1	$1,596	$1,482
O-2	$1,764	$1,554
O-3	$2,154	$1,689
O-4	$2,445	$1,911
O-5	$2,658	$1,995
O-6	$2,676	$2,136
O-7	$2,694	$2,172

CHINA LAKE, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($1,563): ~$180,000 home, PITI ~$1,299/mo
E-6 w/dep ($1,767): ~$205,000 home, PITI ~$1,479/mo
E-7 w/dep ($1,905): ~$220,000 home, PITI ~$1,587/mo
O-3 w/dep ($2,154): ~$250,000 home, PITI ~$1,804/mo

FRESNO, CA (MHA CA022): E-5 w/dep $2,439, E-6 w/dep $2,826, ~$325,000 buying power

FRESNO, CA BAH Rates

Table 5. 2026 BAH rates for FRESNO, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$2,175	$1,740
E-2	$2,175	$1,740
E-3	$2,175	$1,740
E-4	$2,175	$1,740
E-5	$2,439	$1,842
E-6	$2,826	$2,121
E-7	$2,868	$2,184
E-8	$2,910	$2,520
E-9	$3,015	$2,631
W-1	$2,847	$2,136
W-2	$2,883	$2,517
W-3	$2,940	$2,646
W-4	$3,042	$2,832
W-5	$3,174	$2,874
O-1E	$2,871	$2,436
O-2E	$2,928	$2,607
O-3E	$3,063	$2,820
O-1	$2,490	$1,908
O-2	$2,823	$2,352
O-3	$2,937	$2,685
O-4	$3,213	$2,859
O-5	$3,414	$2,880
O-6	$3,441	$2,916
O-7	$3,465	$2,967

FRESNO, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($2,439): ~$280,000 home, PITI ~$2,020/mo
E-6 w/dep ($2,826): ~$325,000 home, PITI ~$2,345/mo
E-7 w/dep ($2,868): ~$330,000 home, PITI ~$2,381/mo
O-3 w/dep ($2,937): ~$340,000 home, PITI ~$2,453/mo

LEMOORE NAS, CA (MHA CA023): E-5 w/dep $2,139, E-6 w/dep $2,277, ~$260,000 buying power

LEMOORE NAS, CA BAH Rates

Table 6. 2026 BAH rates for LEMOORE NAS, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$1,944	$1,581
E-2	$1,944	$1,581
E-3	$1,944	$1,581
E-4	$1,944	$1,581
E-5	$2,139	$1,680
E-6	$2,277	$1,764
E-7	$2,337	$1,950
E-8	$2,406	$2,175
E-9	$2,514	$2,202
W-1	$2,292	$1,884
W-2	$2,364	$2,172
W-3	$2,454	$2,211
W-4	$2,535	$2,283
W-5	$2,643	$2,352
O-1E	$2,346	$2,136
O-2E	$2,439	$2,196
O-3E	$2,553	$2,265
O-1	$2,166	$1,743
O-2	$2,274	$2,079
O-3	$2,451	$2,220
O-4	$2,673	$2,334
O-5	$2,835	$2,367
O-6	$2,856	$2,430
O-7	$2,874	$2,469

LEMOORE NAS, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($2,139): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$1,768/mo
E-6 w/dep ($2,277): ~$260,000 home, PITI ~$1,876/mo
E-7 w/dep ($2,337): ~$270,000 home, PITI ~$1,948/mo
O-3 w/dep ($2,451): ~$280,000 home, PITI ~$2,020/mo

CAMP PENDLETON, CA (MHA CA024): E-5 w/dep $3,963, E-6 w/dep $4,398, ~$505,000 buying power

CAMP PENDLETON, CA BAH Rates

Table 7. 2026 BAH rates for CAMP PENDLETON, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,627	$2,739
E-2	$3,627	$2,739
E-3	$3,627	$2,739
E-4	$3,627	$2,739
E-5	$3,963	$3,093
E-6	$4,398	$3,324
E-7	$4,494	$3,642
E-8	$4,596	$4,056
E-9	$4,779	$4,182
W-1	$4,419	$3,513
W-2	$4,536	$4,053
W-3	$4,662	$4,197
W-4	$4,824	$4,416
W-5	$5,019	$4,518
O-1E	$4,512	$3,960
O-2E	$4,644	$4,152
O-3E	$4,854	$4,392
O-1	$4,023	$3,285
O-2	$4,395	$3,855
O-3	$4,659	$4,239
O-4	$5,085	$4,494
O-5	$5,391	$4,548
O-6	$5,439	$4,641
O-7	$5,484	$4,725

CAMP PENDLETON, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,963): ~$455,000 home, PITI ~$3,283/mo
E-6 w/dep ($4,398): ~$505,000 home, PITI ~$3,644/mo
E-7 w/dep ($4,494): ~$515,000 home, PITI ~$3,716/mo
O-3 w/dep ($4,659): ~$535,000 home, PITI ~$3,860/mo

VENTURA, CA (MHA CA025): E-5 w/dep $3,537, E-6 w/dep $4,008, ~$460,000 buying power

VENTURA, CA BAH Rates

Table 8. 2026 BAH rates for VENTURA, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,378	$2,652
E-2	$3,378	$2,652
E-3	$3,378	$2,652
E-4	$3,378	$2,652
E-5	$3,537	$3,018
E-6	$4,008	$3,228
E-7	$4,083	$3,381
E-8	$4,161	$3,636
E-9	$4,305	$3,771
W-1	$4,029	$3,333
W-2	$4,116	$3,633
W-3	$4,215	$3,789
W-4	$4,341	$4,020
W-5	$4,497	$4,101
O-1E	$4,095	$3,534
O-2E	$4,200	$3,741
O-3E	$4,365	$4,002
O-1	$3,600	$3,213
O-2	$4,002	$3,486
O-3	$4,212	$3,834
O-4	$4,545	$4,080
O-5	$4,788	$4,122
O-6	$4,830	$4,194
O-7	$4,866	$4,269

VENTURA, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,537): ~$405,000 home, PITI ~$2,922/mo
E-6 w/dep ($4,008): ~$460,000 home, PITI ~$3,319/mo
E-7 w/dep ($4,083): ~$470,000 home, PITI ~$3,391/mo
O-3 w/dep ($4,212): ~$485,000 home, PITI ~$3,499/mo

VANDENBERG SFB, CA (MHA CA026): E-5 w/dep $3,333, E-6 w/dep $3,642, ~$420,000 buying power

VANDENBERG SFB, CA BAH Rates

Table 9. 2026 BAH rates for VANDENBERG SFB, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,156	$2,397
E-2	$3,156	$2,397
E-3	$3,156	$2,397
E-4	$3,156	$2,397
E-5	$3,333	$2,778
E-6	$3,642	$2,994
E-7	$3,693	$3,162
E-8	$3,747	$3,399
E-9	$3,873	$3,486
W-1	$3,660	$3,105
W-2	$3,714	$3,396
W-3	$3,783	$3,498
W-4	$3,906	$3,648
W-5	$4,065	$3,702
O-1E	$3,699	$3,330
O-2E	$3,771	$3,465
O-3E	$3,933	$3,633
O-1	$3,378	$2,979
O-2	$3,639	$3,276
O-3	$3,780	$3,528
O-4	$4,113	$3,687
O-5	$4,356	$3,711
O-6	$4,392	$3,759
O-7	$4,425	$3,828

VANDENBERG SFB, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,333): ~$385,000 home, PITI ~$2,778/mo
E-6 w/dep ($3,642): ~$420,000 home, PITI ~$3,030/mo
E-7 w/dep ($3,693): ~$425,000 home, PITI ~$3,066/mo
O-3 w/dep ($3,780): ~$435,000 home, PITI ~$3,138/mo

MARIN/SONOMA, CA (MHA CA027): E-5 w/dep $3,303, E-6 w/dep $3,819, ~$440,000 buying power

MARIN/SONOMA, CA BAH Rates

Table 10. 2026 BAH rates for MARIN/SONOMA, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,252	$2,529
E-2	$3,252	$2,529
E-3	$3,252	$2,529
E-4	$3,252	$2,529
E-5	$3,303	$2,967
E-6	$3,819	$3,201
E-7	$3,939	$3,252
E-8	$4,065	$3,411
E-9	$4,263	$3,561
W-1	$3,840	$3,249
W-2	$3,990	$3,408
W-3	$4,149	$3,579
W-4	$4,305	$3,843
W-5	$4,497	$3,966
O-1E	$3,960	$3,300
O-2E	$4,125	$3,528
O-3E	$4,335	$3,813
O-1	$3,369	$3,198
O-2	$3,813	$3,291
O-3	$4,146	$3,630
O-4	$4,563	$3,939
O-5	$4,863	$4,011
O-6	$4,905	$4,128
O-7	$4,944	$4,203

MARIN/SONOMA, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,303): ~$380,000 home, PITI ~$2,742/mo
E-6 w/dep ($3,819): ~$440,000 home, PITI ~$3,175/mo
E-7 w/dep ($3,939): ~$455,000 home, PITI ~$3,283/mo
O-3 w/dep ($4,146): ~$475,000 home, PITI ~$3,427/mo

BARSTOW/FORT IRWIN, CA (MHA CA028): E-5 w/dep $2,001, E-6 w/dep $2,430, ~$280,000 buying power

BARSTOW/FORT IRWIN, CA BAH Rates

Table 11. 2026 BAH rates for BARSTOW/FORT IRWIN, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$1,890	$1,557
E-2	$1,890	$1,557
E-3	$1,890	$1,557
E-4	$1,890	$1,557
E-5	$2,001	$1,695
E-6	$2,430	$1,824
E-7	$2,547	$1,911
E-8	$2,673	$2,091
E-9	$2,814	$2,214
W-1	$2,451	$1,866
W-2	$2,598	$2,088
W-3	$2,751	$2,232
W-4	$2,838	$2,454
W-5	$2,946	$2,574
O-1E	$2,568	$1,998
O-2E	$2,730	$2,187
O-3E	$2,856	$2,424
O-1	$2,058	$1,776
O-2	$2,427	$1,968
O-3	$2,748	$2,274
O-4	$2,976	$2,550
O-5	$3,144	$2,616
O-6	$3,168	$2,730
O-7	$3,189	$2,778

BARSTOW/FORT IRWIN, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($2,001): ~$230,000 home, PITI ~$1,659/mo
E-6 w/dep ($2,430): ~$280,000 home, PITI ~$2,020/mo
E-7 w/dep ($2,547): ~$295,000 home, PITI ~$2,128/mo
O-3 w/dep ($2,748): ~$315,000 home, PITI ~$2,273/mo

SAN BERNARDINO, CA (MHA CA031): E-5 w/dep $3,288, E-6 w/dep $3,381, ~$390,000 buying power

SAN BERNARDINO, CA BAH Rates

Table 12. 2026 BAH rates for SAN BERNARDINO, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$2,958	$2,220
E-2	$2,958	$2,220
E-3	$2,958	$2,220
E-4	$2,958	$2,220
E-5	$3,288	$2,466
E-6	$3,381	$2,667
E-7	$3,399	$2,973
E-8	$3,408	$3,312
E-9	$3,465	$3,327
W-1	$3,396	$2,850
W-2	$3,405	$3,309
W-3	$3,417	$3,333
W-4	$3,489	$3,372
W-5	$3,597	$3,387
O-1E	$3,402	$3,285
O-2E	$3,411	$3,324
O-3E	$3,504	$3,369
O-1	$3,306	$2,628
O-2	$3,378	$3,180
O-3	$3,414	$3,339
O-4	$3,630	$3,375
O-5	$3,798	$3,390
O-6	$3,828	$3,393
O-7	$3,855	$3,438

SAN BERNARDINO, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,288): ~$380,000 home, PITI ~$2,742/mo
E-6 w/dep ($3,381): ~$390,000 home, PITI ~$2,814/mo
E-7 w/dep ($3,399): ~$390,000 home, PITI ~$2,814/mo
O-3 w/dep ($3,414): ~$395,000 home, PITI ~$2,850/mo

TWENTY NINE PALMS MCB, CA (MHA CA032): E-5 w/dep $1,980, E-6 w/dep $2,550, ~$295,000 buying power

TWENTY NINE PALMS MCB, CA BAH Rates

Table 13. 2026 BAH rates for TWENTY NINE PALMS MCB, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$1,896	$1,755
E-2	$1,896	$1,755
E-3	$1,896	$1,755
E-4	$1,896	$1,755
E-5	$1,980	$1,782
E-6	$2,550	$1,914
E-7	$2,649	$1,986
E-8	$2,751	$2,097
E-9	$2,892	$2,265
W-1	$2,571	$1,929
W-2	$2,688	$2,094
W-3	$2,817	$2,286
W-4	$2,919	$2,571
W-5	$3,051	$2,670
O-1E	$2,664	$1,998
O-2E	$2,796	$2,229
O-3E	$2,940	$2,544
O-1	$2,052	$1,809
O-2	$2,544	$1,989
O-3	$2,814	$2,343
O-4	$3,090	$2,646
O-5	$3,291	$2,703
O-6	$3,318	$2,796
O-7	$3,342	$2,841

TWENTY NINE PALMS MCB, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($1,980): ~$230,000 home, PITI ~$1,659/mo
E-6 w/dep ($2,550): ~$295,000 home, PITI ~$2,128/mo
E-7 w/dep ($2,649): ~$305,000 home, PITI ~$2,201/mo
O-3 w/dep ($2,814): ~$325,000 home, PITI ~$2,345/mo

BEALE AFB, CA (MHA CA033): E-5 w/dep $2,967, E-6 w/dep $3,132, ~$360,000 buying power

BEALE AFB, CA BAH Rates

Table 14. 2026 BAH rates for BEALE AFB, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$2,733	$2,133
E-2	$2,733	$2,133
E-3	$2,733	$2,133
E-4	$2,733	$2,133
E-5	$2,967	$2,367
E-6	$3,132	$2,523
E-7	$3,150	$2,742
E-8	$3,159	$3,006
E-9	$3,195	$3,042
W-1	$3,147	$2,661
W-2	$3,156	$3,003
W-3	$3,168	$3,051
W-4	$3,216	$3,123
W-5	$3,315	$3,132
O-1E	$3,153	$2,964
O-2E	$3,162	$3,033
O-3E	$3,231	$3,120
O-1	$2,994	$2,496
O-2	$3,129	$2,892
O-3	$3,165	$3,066
O-4	$3,342	$3,126
O-5	$3,492	$3,135
O-6	$3,522	$3,138
O-7	$3,546	$3,171

BEALE AFB, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($2,967): ~$340,000 home, PITI ~$2,453/mo
E-6 w/dep ($3,132): ~$360,000 home, PITI ~$2,597/mo
E-7 w/dep ($3,150): ~$360,000 home, PITI ~$2,597/mo
O-3 w/dep ($3,165): ~$365,000 home, PITI ~$2,633/mo

SACRAMENTO, CA (MHA CA034): E-5 w/dep $2,904, E-6 w/dep $2,979, ~$345,000 buying power

SACRAMENTO, CA BAH Rates

Table 15. 2026 BAH rates for SACRAMENTO, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$2,598	$2,016
E-2	$2,598	$2,016
E-3	$2,598	$2,016
E-4	$2,598	$2,016
E-5	$2,904	$2,190
E-6	$2,979	$2,325
E-7	$2,997	$2,610
E-8	$3,021	$2,925
E-9	$3,114	$2,934
W-1	$2,994	$2,499
W-2	$3,006	$2,922
W-3	$3,042	$2,940
W-4	$3,144	$2,973
W-5	$3,276	$3,000
O-1E	$3,000	$2,901
O-2E	$3,033	$2,931
O-3E	$3,165	$2,964
O-1	$2,922	$2,292
O-2	$2,976	$2,805
O-3	$3,039	$2,943
O-4	$3,318	$2,988
O-5	$3,525	$3,003
O-6	$3,552	$3,015
O-7	$3,576	$3,069

SACRAMENTO, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($2,904): ~$335,000 home, PITI ~$2,417/mo
E-6 w/dep ($2,979): ~$345,000 home, PITI ~$2,489/mo
E-7 w/dep ($2,997): ~$345,000 home, PITI ~$2,489/mo
O-3 w/dep ($3,039): ~$350,000 home, PITI ~$2,525/mo

STOCKTON, CA (MHA CA035): E-5 w/dep $2,553, E-6 w/dep $2,934, ~$340,000 buying power

STOCKTON, CA BAH Rates

Table 16. 2026 BAH rates for STOCKTON, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$2,445	$1,926
E-2	$2,445	$1,926
E-3	$2,445	$1,926
E-4	$2,445	$1,926
E-5	$2,553	$2,187
E-6	$2,934	$2,340
E-7	$3,072	$2,445
E-8	$3,219	$2,634
E-9	$3,432	$2,742
W-1	$2,955	$2,418
W-2	$3,132	$2,631
W-3	$3,315	$2,757
W-4	$3,477	$2,961
W-5	$3,672	$3,105
O-1E	$3,096	$2,550
O-2E	$3,288	$2,718
O-3E	$3,507	$2,925
O-1	$2,607	$2,331
O-2	$2,931	$2,523
O-3	$3,309	$2,793
O-4	$3,738	$3,075
O-5	$4,047	$3,156
O-6	$4,080	$3,294
O-7	$4,110	$3,351

STOCKTON, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($2,553): ~$295,000 home, PITI ~$2,128/mo
E-6 w/dep ($2,934): ~$340,000 home, PITI ~$2,453/mo
E-7 w/dep ($3,072): ~$355,000 home, PITI ~$2,561/mo
O-3 w/dep ($3,309): ~$380,000 home, PITI ~$2,742/mo

VALLEJO/TRAVIS AFB, CA (MHA CA036): E-5 w/dep $3,369, E-6 w/dep $3,498, ~$400,000 buying power

VALLEJO/TRAVIS AFB, CA BAH Rates

Table 17. 2026 BAH rates for VALLEJO/TRAVIS AFB, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,090	$2,412
E-2	$3,090	$2,412
E-3	$3,090	$2,412
E-4	$3,090	$2,412
E-5	$3,369	$2,664
E-6	$3,498	$2,838
E-7	$3,516	$3,099
E-8	$3,525	$3,402
E-9	$3,597	$3,426
W-1	$3,513	$2,997
W-2	$3,522	$3,399
W-3	$3,540	$3,435
W-4	$3,621	$3,489
W-5	$3,729	$3,510
O-1E	$3,519	$3,366
O-2E	$3,531	$3,420
O-3E	$3,636	$3,486
O-1	$3,393	$2,805
O-2	$3,495	$3,279
O-3	$3,537	$3,444
O-4	$3,762	$3,498
O-5	$3,927	$3,513
O-6	$3,960	$3,516
O-7	$3,987	$3,576

VALLEJO/TRAVIS AFB, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,369): ~$390,000 home, PITI ~$2,814/mo
E-6 w/dep ($3,498): ~$400,000 home, PITI ~$2,886/mo
E-7 w/dep ($3,516): ~$405,000 home, PITI ~$2,922/mo
O-3 w/dep ($3,537): ~$405,000 home, PITI ~$2,922/mo

LOS ANGELES, CA (MHA CA037): E-5 w/dep $3,882, E-6 w/dep $4,188, ~$480,000 buying power

LOS ANGELES, CA BAH Rates

Table 18. 2026 BAH rates for LOS ANGELES, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,570	$2,679
E-2	$3,570	$2,679
E-3	$3,570	$2,679
E-4	$3,570	$2,679
E-5	$3,882	$3,048
E-6	$4,188	$3,291
E-7	$4,311	$3,582
E-8	$4,443	$3,948
E-9	$4,674	$4,032
W-1	$4,209	$3,468
W-2	$4,365	$3,945
W-3	$4,530	$4,044
W-4	$4,728	$4,212
W-5	$4,971	$4,341
O-1E	$4,332	$3,879
O-2E	$4,503	$4,014
O-3E	$4,767	$4,179
O-1	$3,927	$3,255
O-2	$4,185	$3,780
O-3	$4,524	$4,074
O-4	$5,052	$4,314
O-5	$5,436	$4,386
O-6	$5,481	$4,509
O-7	$5,526	$4,590

LOS ANGELES, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,882): ~$445,000 home, PITI ~$3,211/mo
E-6 w/dep ($4,188): ~$480,000 home, PITI ~$3,463/mo
E-7 w/dep ($4,311): ~$495,000 home, PITI ~$3,571/mo
O-3 w/dep ($4,524): ~$520,000 home, PITI ~$3,752/mo

SAN DIEGO, CA (MHA CA038): E-5 w/dep $3,975, E-6 w/dep $4,404, ~$505,000 buying power

SAN DIEGO, CA BAH Rates

Table 19. 2026 BAH rates for SAN DIEGO, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,666	$2,763
E-2	$3,666	$2,763
E-3	$3,666	$2,763
E-4	$3,666	$2,763
E-5	$3,975	$3,147
E-6	$4,404	$3,387
E-7	$4,446	$3,678
E-8	$4,488	$4,065
E-9	$4,671	$4,188
W-1	$4,425	$3,564
W-2	$4,464	$4,062
W-3	$4,521	$4,206
W-4	$4,731	$4,410
W-5	$4,992	$4,455
O-1E	$4,449	$3,972
O-2E	$4,506	$4,161
O-3E	$4,770	$4,398
O-1	$4,032	$3,351
O-2	$4,401	$3,873
O-3	$4,518	$4,248
O-4	$5,082	$4,440
O-5	$5,493	$4,458
O-6	$5,541	$4,494
O-7	$5,586	$4,575

SAN DIEGO, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,975): ~$455,000 home, PITI ~$3,283/mo
E-6 w/dep ($4,404): ~$505,000 home, PITI ~$3,644/mo
E-7 w/dep ($4,446): ~$510,000 home, PITI ~$3,680/mo
O-3 w/dep ($4,518): ~$520,000 home, PITI ~$3,752/mo

MONTEREY, CA (MHA CA039): E-5 w/dep $3,465, E-6 w/dep $3,867, ~$445,000 buying power

MONTEREY, CA BAH Rates

Table 20. 2026 BAH rates for MONTEREY, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,249	$2,493
E-2	$3,249	$2,493
E-3	$3,249	$2,493
E-4	$3,249	$2,493
E-5	$3,465	$2,844
E-6	$3,867	$3,054
E-7	$4,218	$3,258
E-8	$4,599	$3,549
E-9	$4,956	$3,717
W-1	$3,894	$3,183
W-2	$4,374	$3,546
W-3	$4,842	$3,720
W-4	$5,001	$3,951
W-5	$5,196	$4,305
O-1E	$4,293	$3,462
O-2E	$4,773	$3,639
O-3E	$5,031	$3,861
O-1	$3,519	$3,030
O-2	$3,864	$3,396
O-3	$4,824	$3,723
O-4	$5,259	$4,245
O-5	$5,565	$4,464
O-6	$5,613	$4,821
O-7	$5,658	$4,908

MONTEREY, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,465): ~$400,000 home, PITI ~$2,886/mo
E-6 w/dep ($3,867): ~$445,000 home, PITI ~$3,211/mo
E-7 w/dep ($4,218): ~$485,000 home, PITI ~$3,499/mo
O-3 w/dep ($4,824): ~$555,000 home, PITI ~$4,004/mo

RIVERSIDE, CA (MHA CA041): E-5 w/dep $3,351, E-6 w/dep $3,549, ~$410,000 buying power

RIVERSIDE, CA BAH Rates

Table 21. 2026 BAH rates for RIVERSIDE, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,096	$2,364
E-2	$3,096	$2,364
E-3	$3,096	$2,364
E-4	$3,096	$2,364
E-5	$3,351	$2,670
E-6	$3,549	$2,865
E-7	$3,603	$3,105
E-8	$3,663	$3,396
E-9	$3,753	$3,444
W-1	$3,564	$3,015
W-2	$3,627	$3,393
W-3	$3,708	$3,453
W-4	$3,768	$3,552
W-5	$3,855	$3,615
O-1E	$3,612	$3,348
O-2E	$3,693	$3,435
O-3E	$3,783	$3,537
O-1	$3,384	$2,835
O-2	$3,546	$3,270
O-3	$3,705	$3,471
O-4	$3,876	$3,597
O-5	$4,002	$3,627
O-6	$4,035	$3,684
O-7	$4,065	$3,747

RIVERSIDE, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,351): ~$385,000 home, PITI ~$2,778/mo
E-6 w/dep ($3,549): ~$410,000 home, PITI ~$2,958/mo
E-7 w/dep ($3,603): ~$415,000 home, PITI ~$2,994/mo
O-3 w/dep ($3,705): ~$425,000 home, PITI ~$3,066/mo

HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CA (MHA CA042): E-5 w/dep $1,827, E-6 w/dep $2,322, ~$265,000 buying power

HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CA BAH Rates

Table 22. 2026 BAH rates for HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$1,764	$1,395
E-2	$1,764	$1,395
E-3	$1,764	$1,395
E-4	$1,764	$1,395
E-5	$1,827	$1,587
E-6	$2,322	$1,743
E-7	$2,511	$1,884
E-8	$2,715	$2,037
E-9	$2,916	$2,187
W-1	$2,343	$1,758
W-2	$2,595	$1,947
W-3	$2,844	$2,190
W-4	$2,943	$2,364
W-5	$3,063	$2,556
O-1E	$2,547	$1,911
O-2E	$2,808	$2,106
O-3E	$2,961	$2,316
O-1	$1,893	$1,698
O-2	$2,316	$1,887
O-3	$2,838	$2,193
O-4	$3,099	$2,520
O-5	$3,288	$2,634
O-6	$3,312	$2,823
O-7	$3,336	$2,871

HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($1,827): ~$210,000 home, PITI ~$1,515/mo
E-6 w/dep ($2,322): ~$265,000 home, PITI ~$1,912/mo
E-7 w/dep ($2,511): ~$290,000 home, PITI ~$2,092/mo
O-3 w/dep ($2,838): ~$325,000 home, PITI ~$2,345/mo

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA (MHA CA044): E-5 w/dep $4,659, E-6 w/dep $4,977, ~$575,000 buying power

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA BAH Rates

Table 23. 2026 BAH rates for SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$4,356	$3,318
E-2	$4,356	$3,318
E-3	$4,356	$3,318
E-4	$4,356	$3,318
E-5	$4,659	$3,798
E-6	$4,977	$4,086
E-7	$5,058	$4,368
E-8	$5,145	$4,728
E-9	$5,382	$4,815
W-1	$4,998	$4,257
W-2	$5,094	$4,725
W-3	$5,202	$4,830
W-4	$5,448	$4,992
W-5	$5,751	$5,076
O-1E	$5,070	$4,656
O-2E	$5,184	$4,797
O-3E	$5,496	$4,971
O-1	$4,704	$4,053
O-2	$4,974	$4,560
O-3	$5,199	$4,860
O-4	$5,856	$5,055
O-5	$6,333	$5,100
O-6	$6,387	$5,178
O-7	$6,441	$5,274

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($4,659): ~$535,000 home, PITI ~$3,860/mo
E-6 w/dep ($4,977): ~$575,000 home, PITI ~$4,149/mo
E-7 w/dep ($5,058): ~$580,000 home, PITI ~$4,185/mo
O-3 w/dep ($5,199): ~$600,000 home, PITI ~$4,329/mo

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA (MHA CA392): E-5 w/dep $3,198, E-6 w/dep $3,948, ~$455,000 buying power

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA BAH Rates

Table 24. 2026 BAH rates for SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$3,027	$2,358
E-2	$3,027	$2,358
E-3	$3,027	$2,358
E-4	$3,027	$2,358
E-5	$3,198	$2,679
E-6	$3,948	$2,961
E-7	$4,047	$3,036
E-8	$4,152	$3,348
E-9	$4,413	$3,576
W-1	$3,969	$2,976
W-2	$4,089	$3,345
W-3	$4,218	$3,600
W-4	$4,485	$3,966
W-5	$4,806	$4,068
O-1E	$4,062	$3,195
O-2E	$4,200	$3,525
O-3E	$4,536	$3,942
O-1	$3,291	$2,853
O-2	$3,939	$3,144
O-3	$4,215	$3,675
O-4	$4,920	$4,047
O-5	$5,430	$4,101
O-6	$5,475	$4,197
O-7	$5,520	$4,272

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($3,198): ~$370,000 home, PITI ~$2,670/mo
E-6 w/dep ($3,948): ~$455,000 home, PITI ~$3,283/mo
E-7 w/dep ($4,047): ~$465,000 home, PITI ~$3,355/mo
O-3 w/dep ($4,215): ~$485,000 home, PITI ~$3,499/mo

BRIDGEPORT, CA (MHA CA393): E-5 w/dep $2,085, E-6 w/dep $2,805, ~$325,000 buying power

BRIDGEPORT, CA BAH Rates

Table 25. 2026 BAH rates for BRIDGEPORT, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$2,082	$1,683
E-2	$2,082	$1,683
E-3	$2,082	$1,683
E-4	$2,082	$1,683
E-5	$2,085	$1,941
E-6	$2,805	$2,103
E-7	$2,883	$2,163
E-8	$2,964	$2,226
E-9	$3,099	$2,445
W-1	$2,826	$2,121
W-2	$2,916	$2,223
W-3	$3,021	$2,469
W-4	$3,129	$2,820
W-5	$3,267	$2,901
O-1E	$2,895	$2,172
O-2E	$3,003	$2,397
O-3E	$3,150	$2,799
O-1	$2,169	$2,085
O-2	$2,796	$2,166
O-3	$3,018	$2,541
O-4	$3,312	$2,880
O-5	$3,525	$2,922
O-6	$3,552	$2,997
O-7	$3,579	$3,048

BRIDGEPORT, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($2,085): ~$240,000 home, PITI ~$1,732/mo
E-6 w/dep ($2,805): ~$325,000 home, PITI ~$2,345/mo
E-7 w/dep ($2,883): ~$330,000 home, PITI ~$2,381/mo
O-3 w/dep ($3,018): ~$345,000 home, PITI ~$2,489/mo

EL CENTRO, CA (MHA CA420): E-5 w/dep $1,986, E-6 w/dep $2,151, ~$245,000 buying power

EL CENTRO, CA BAH Rates

Table 26. 2026 BAH rates for EL CENTRO, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$1,905	$1,500
E-2	$1,905	$1,500
E-3	$1,905	$1,500
E-4	$1,905	$1,500
E-5	$1,986	$1,704
E-6	$2,151	$1,824
E-7	$2,334	$1,905
E-8	$2,541	$2,025
E-9	$2,721	$2,061
W-1	$2,166	$1,890
W-2	$2,418	$2,022
W-3	$2,673	$2,070
W-4	$2,739	$2,187
W-5	$2,823	$2,382
O-1E	$2,373	$1,983
O-2E	$2,634	$2,052
O-3E	$2,751	$2,139
O-1	$2,013	$1,818
O-2	$2,148	$1,962
O-3	$2,664	$2,085
O-4	$2,847	$2,346
O-5	$2,976	$2,460
O-6	$2,997	$2,652
O-7	$3,018	$2,697

EL CENTRO, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($1,986): ~$230,000 home, PITI ~$1,659/mo
E-6 w/dep ($2,151): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$1,768/mo
E-7 w/dep ($2,334): ~$270,000 home, PITI ~$1,948/mo
O-3 w/dep ($2,664): ~$305,000 home, PITI ~$2,201/mo

EDWARDS AFB/PALMDALE, CA (MHA CA457): E-5 w/dep $2,658, E-6 w/dep $3,156, ~$365,000 buying power

EDWARDS AFB/PALMDALE, CA BAH Rates

Table 27. 2026 BAH rates for EDWARDS AFB/PALMDALE, CA
Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-1	$2,475	$1,887
E-2	$2,475	$1,887
E-3	$2,475	$1,887
E-4	$2,475	$1,887
E-5	$2,658	$2,148
E-6	$3,156	$2,367
E-7	$3,195	$2,481
E-8	$3,237	$2,763
E-9	$3,354	$2,910
W-1	$3,177	$2,424
W-2	$3,213	$2,760
W-3	$3,267	$2,928
W-4	$3,390	$3,162
W-5	$3,546	$3,204
O-1E	$3,198	$2,655
O-2E	$3,255	$2,877
O-3E	$3,414	$3,150
O-1	$2,724	$2,289
O-2	$3,153	$2,601
O-3	$3,264	$2,976
O-4	$3,597	$3,189
O-5	$3,840	$3,207
O-6	$3,870	$3,240
O-7	$3,900	$3,297

EDWARDS AFB/PALMDALE, CA Buying Power

E-5 w/dep ($2,658): ~$305,000 home, PITI ~$2,201/mo
E-6 w/dep ($3,156): ~$365,000 home, PITI ~$2,633/mo
E-7 w/dep ($3,195): ~$370,000 home, PITI ~$2,670/mo
O-3 w/dep ($3,264): ~$375,000 home, PITI ~$2,706/mo

VA Loans Near California Military Bases

California BAH rates for an E-6 with dependents range from $1,767/month (CHINA LAKE, CA) to $5,454/month (SAN FRANCISCO, CA). That translates to estimated buying power from ~$205,000 to ~$625,000 at current VA loan terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use BAH to qualify for a VA loan?

Yes. BAH is included in effective income if properly verified. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Analysis of Military Quarters Allowance/BAH Because BAH is tax free, lenders may count it at 125 percent for the debt-to-income ratio, a 25 percent gross-up. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Debt-to-Income Ratio

Does BAH change when I PCS?

Your BAH rate is based on the MHA of your duty station. The BAH amount changes from one duty station to another. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Analysis of Military Quarters Allowance/BAH Rate protection means the monthly amount may not be reduced while the member retains uninterrupted eligibility within an area. 37 USC 403(b)(6)

What is the difference between with-dependents and without-dependents BAH?

The statute establishes separate rates for members with and without dependents. 37 USC 403(b)(5) With-dependents rates are higher at every grade in every MHA.

How many MHAs are in California?

California has 26 Military Housing Areas. The Secretary of Defense determines the costs of adequate housing in each area. 37 USC 403(b)(2)

Which California MHA has the highest BAH?

SAN FRANCISCO, CA has the highest E-6 with-dependents rate at $5,454 per month, translating to roughly $625,000 in buying power.

Which California MHA has the lowest BAH?

CHINA LAKE, CA has the lowest E-6 with-dependents rate at $1,767 per month, translating to roughly $205,000 in buying power.

How is buying power calculated?

Buying power assumes 6.5 percent rate, 30-year term, 2.15 percent VA funding fee financed, zero down payment, California property tax at 0.70 percent (2023 ACS), homeowners insurance at 0.21 percent of home value (2022 III/NAIC), and PITI capped at 83 percent of BAH with dependents (VALN assumption, not a VA or DoD rule).

Is BAH the same as housing allowance on my LES?

Yes. Military allowances including BAH are documented on the LES. VA Pamphlet 26-7 Ch. 4, Analysis of Military Quarters Allowance/BAH The amount matches the published DoD rate for your MHA, grade, and dependency status.

How We Researched This Page

BAH rates are from the 2026 DoD BAH rate tables. Buying power is derived using the documented assumptions: Buying power assumes 6.5 percent rate, 30-year term, 2.15 percent VA funding fee financed, zero down payment, California property tax at 0.70 percent (2023 ACS), homeowners insurance at 0.21 percent of home value (2022 III/NAIC), and PITI capped at 83 percent of BAH with dependents (VALN assumption, not a VA or DoD rule). These figures are estimates for comparison, not loan quotes or approvals.

Resources Used

DoD BAH Rate Lookup
VA Home Loan Overview
BAH dataset: bah-2026-provisional.json (md5 0c11a85f)

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