Rates and VA Loan Buying Power
2026 Florida BAH Rates and VA Loan Buying Power
DoD BAH rate lookup
DFAS pay and entitlements
The VA home loan overview
The CFPB Loan Estimate guide
Florida BAH rates can directly affect VA loan buying power because BAH is tax free and many lenders count it when it is verified on your LES. The better move is to turn your Florida BAH into a realistic PITI target, check eligibility early, and use the tables after you know what payment range actually fits your file.
Next step:
Check Your VA Loan Eligibility
Florida BAH Snapshot
- Example markets: Miami and Fort Lauderdale sits near the top of the state at $3,969 for an E5 with dependents in your reference set, while Pensacola is far lower at $1,863.
- What that means: Florida is not one market. Your monthly housing number can swing hard by location, pay grade, and dependency status.
- Reality check: Use the chart as a planning tool, then confirm the exact MHA and pay grade before you build a home payment target.
- Best next move: Treat BAH as the starting point, not the whole budget, because taxes, insurance, HOA dues, and reserves still matter.
How BAH Counts For VA Loans
- Qualifying income: Many lenders add BAH to base pay when they calculate DTI and overall affordability for a VA loan.
- Tax free treatment: Because BAH is non taxable, some lenders gross it up, which can improve ratios and increase buying power on the same base pay.
- Residual income still matters: VA approvals are not just about DTI. Underwriters also look at what is left after major obligations are paid.
- Ask directly: Make the lender explain how BAH was counted, whether it was grossed up, and what payment range they actually used.
PCS and Rate Protection
- Gaining station logic: With valid PCS orders, lenders can often qualify you using the BAH tied to the new Florida duty station before you arrive.
- Rate protection matters: If published BAH later drops, many service members keep the higher protected amount while they stay at the same station and keep the same status.
- Avoid overbuying: A high Florida market does not automatically make the payment safe. You still need room for the rest of the budget.
- Smart timing: Send orders early so underwriting does not use the wrong location or the wrong assumption set.
LES and Documents
- LES proof: Expect the lender to review two to three recent LES statements to verify BAH, base pay, and current entitlements.
- PCS support: If you are buying ahead of a move, orders help prove the gaining station and the timing tied to the new BAH rate.
- Continuity matters: Underwriters want a stable income story, not just a chart amount pulled from a table.
- Keep it ready: Save clean PDF copies of LES, orders, and any supporting pay documents before you request quotes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can BAH be used as qualifying income for a VA loan in Florida?
Yes. Active duty borrowers can usually use BAH as qualifying income when it is documented on the LES. Because it is tax free, some lenders also gross it up, which can improve ratios and buying power.
Can I qualify using BAH for a new Florida duty station before I PCS?
Why does a lender payment estimate not match the Florida BAH chart exactly?
Jump To Your Base
- EGLIN AFB, FL — E-6 w/dep: $2,526 → ~$285,000 buying power
- GAINESVILLE, FL — E-6 w/dep: $2,355 → ~$265,000 buying power
- JACKSONVILLE, FL — E-6 w/dep: $2,241 → ~$250,000 buying power
- PATRICK SFB, FL — E-6 w/dep: $2,883 → ~$325,000 buying power
- MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — E-6 w/dep: $3,792 → ~$425,000 buying power
- ORLANDO, FL — E-6 w/dep: $2,961 → ~$330,000 buying power
- WEST PALM BEACH, FL — E-6 w/dep: $3,606 → ~$405,000 buying power
- OCALA, FL — E-6 w/dep: $2,391 → ~$270,000 buying power
- FLORIDA KEYS, FL — E-6 w/dep: $4,056 → ~$455,000 buying power
- VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL — E-6 w/dep: $2,496 → ~$280,000 buying power
- FORT PIERCE, FL — E-6 w/dep: $2,829 → ~$315,000 buying power
- FORT MYERS BEACH, FL — E-6 w/dep: $2,919 → ~$325,000 buying power
The Bottom Line Up Front
Florida BAH rates for 2026 range from $2,241 to $4,056 per month for an E-6 with dependents, depending on duty station. At the highest rate, that supports roughly $450,000 in VA loan buying power at current rates. Use the 12 rate tables below to find your specific station, then see what your BAH actually buys with a VA loan.
How to Use Florida BAH Rates for a VA Loan
- Pick the right table: Choose the Florida city or base area that matches your duty station, then match your pay grade and dependency status.
- Turn BAH into a PITI target plus cushion: Start with BAH, then leave room for taxes, insurance, utilities, HOA dues, and normal life expenses.
- Verify lender treatment using LES and gross up: Ask whether the lender counted tax free BAH from your LES and whether that income was grossed up.
- Use the same assumptions when shopping lenders: Keep the same purchase price, credit band, occupancy plan, and fee structure so the quotes are actually useful.
Convert Your BAH to VA Buying Power
Enter your BAH and key financials. We’ll estimate a comfortable VA home price and the resulting monthly payment.
Explore More BAH Insights
-
2026 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Rates by City
Official 2026 tables by city and MHA -
How BAH Affects VA Loan Buying Power
How allowance converts to qualifying income and price -
Military Housing Allowance (MHA) vs. BAH
Terminology and usage across DoD and lenders -
How Dual Military Couples Combine BAH for a VA Loan
Categories, documentation, and joint approvals -
Using BAH After Active Duty for a VA Loan
Eligibility paths, timing, documentation after separation -
Top 10 Military Cities with the Highest BAH
Markets with strong allowances and typical housing costs -
BAH Reserve and Transient Rates for 2026
Reserve component and partial month quick reference -
BAH vs PITI Mortgage Coverage
Define coverage and calculate safe payment buffers -
BAH VA Loan Buy or Rent PCS
Choose ownership or leasing around PCS timelines -
BAH Gross Up VA Loan Buying Power
How lenders adjust non taxable income and DTI impact
Your BAH is one piece of the income picture. When you apply for a VA loan, lenders evaluate your debt-to-income ratio and residual income alongside your housing allowance. Because BAH is tax-free, most lenders can gross it up to reflect its true purchasing power, which directly affects pre-approval amounts. Understanding how your qualifying income is calculated helps you set a realistic price range before you start shopping.
For a broader look at homebuying options and benefits in this state, see our Florida VA loan guide.
What To Do Based On Your Situation
- PCS-ing to Florida soon: Use the gaining station BAH with your orders to get preapproved before you arrive. Many lenders can qualify you on the new rate before you move.
- Already stationed in Florida: Your BAH is already on your LES. Turn it into a PITI target and see what home price fits before you start shopping.
- Separating or retiring in Florida: BAH stops when you separate, so qualify based on your post-military income. If you are buying before separation, coordinate timing carefully with your lender.
Buying power estimates assume 6.5% rate, $0 down, state average property tax and insurance rates, and 2.15% VA funding fee financed. Your actual buying power depends on credit, debts, and lender qualification.
EGLIN AFB, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,340 | $2,007 |
| E02 | $2,340 | $2,007 |
| E03 | $2,340 | $2,007 |
| E04 | $2,340 | $2,007 |
| E05 | $2,433 | $2,157 |
| E06 | $2,526 | $2,250 |
| E07 | $2,841 | $2,340 |
| E08 | $3,189 | $2,457 |
| E09 | $3,447 | $2,586 |
| W01 | $2,544 | $2,322 |
| W02 | $2,985 | $2,454 |
| W03 | $3,414 | $2,589 |
| W04 | $3,456 | $2,604 |
| W05 | $3,516 | $2,922 |
| O01E | $2,910 | $2,430 |
| O02E | $3,351 | $2,514 |
| O03E | $3,468 | $2,601 |
| O01 | $2,451 | $2,244 |
| O02 | $2,523 | $2,406 |
| O03 | $3,399 | $2,592 |
| O04 | $3,528 | $2,865 |
| O05 | $3,612 | $3,066 |
| O06 | $3,642 | $3,393 |
| O07 | $3,669 | $3,453 |
EGLIN AFB — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($2,433): ~$270,000 home · PITI ~$2,019/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($2,526): ~$285,000 home · PITI ~$2,096/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($2,841): ~$320,000 home · PITI ~$2,358/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($3,399): ~$380,000 home · PITI ~$2,821/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for EGLIN AFB, FL: 32422, 32433, 32434, 32435, 32439, 32459, 32531, 32536, 32537, 32538, 32539, 32540, 32541, 32542, 32544, 32547, 32548, 32549, 32550, 32564, 32567, 32569, 32578, 32579, 32580, 32588
GAINESVILLE, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $1,986 | $1,572 |
| E02 | $1,986 | $1,572 |
| E03 | $1,986 | $1,572 |
| E04 | $1,986 | $1,572 |
| E05 | $2,040 | $1,800 |
| E06 | $2,355 | $1,932 |
| E07 | $2,478 | $1,983 |
| E08 | $2,613 | $2,109 |
| E09 | $2,793 | $2,196 |
| W01 | $2,373 | $1,980 |
| W02 | $2,532 | $2,106 |
| W03 | $2,700 | $2,208 |
| W04 | $2,826 | $2,379 |
| W05 | $2,982 | $2,508 |
| O01E | $2,502 | $2,037 |
| O02E | $2,676 | $2,175 |
| O03E | $2,850 | $2,346 |
| O01 | $2,085 | $1,929 |
| O02 | $2,352 | $2,025 |
| O03 | $2,697 | $2,238 |
| O04 | $3,033 | $2,481 |
| O05 | $3,276 | $2,556 |
| O06 | $3,300 | $2,679 |
| O07 | $3,324 | $2,724 |
GAINESVILLE — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($2,040): ~$230,000 home · PITI ~$1,693/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($2,355): ~$265,000 home · PITI ~$1,954/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($2,478): ~$275,000 home · PITI ~$2,056/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($2,697): ~$300,000 home · PITI ~$2,238/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for GAINESVILLE, FL: 32601, 32602, 32603, 32604, 32605, 32606, 32607, 32608, 32609, 32610, 32611, 32612, 32614, 32615, 32616, 32618, 32627, 32631, 32633, 32635, 32640, 32641, 32643, 32653, 32654, 32655, 32658, 32662, 32667, 32669, 32694
JACKSONVILLE, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,046 | $1,623 |
| E02 | $2,046 | $1,623 |
| E03 | $2,046 | $1,623 |
| E04 | $2,046 | $1,623 |
| E05 | $2,181 | $1,803 |
| E06 | $2,241 | $1,920 |
| E07 | $2,283 | $2,049 |
| E08 | $2,331 | $2,199 |
| E09 | $2,424 | $2,205 |
| W01 | $2,256 | $2,010 |
| W02 | $2,301 | $2,196 |
| W03 | $2,367 | $2,208 |
| W04 | $2,445 | $2,241 |
| W05 | $2,550 | $2,292 |
| O01E | $2,289 | $2,178 |
| O02E | $2,355 | $2,202 |
| O03E | $2,463 | $2,229 |
| O01 | $2,196 | $1,908 |
| O02 | $2,238 | $2,139 |
| O03 | $2,364 | $2,211 |
| O04 | $2,580 | $2,277 |
| O05 | $2,736 | $2,301 |
| O06 | $2,757 | $2,343 |
| O07 | $2,775 | $2,382 |
JACKSONVILLE — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($2,181): ~$245,000 home · PITI ~$1,810/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($2,241): ~$250,000 home · PITI ~$1,860/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($2,283): ~$255,000 home · PITI ~$1,894/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($2,364): ~$265,000 home · PITI ~$1,962/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for JACKSONVILLE, FL: 32003, 32004, 32006, 32030, 32033, 32043, 32050, 32065, 32067, 32068, 32073, 32079, 32080, 32081, 32082, 32084, 32085, 32086, 32091, 32092, 32095, 32099, 32145, 32160, 32201, 32202, 32203, 32204, 32205, 32206, 32207, 32208, 32209, 32210, 32211, 32212, 32214, 32216, 32217, 32218, 32219, 32220, 32221, 32222, 32223, 32224, 32225, 32226, 32227, 32228, 32229, 32231, 32232, 32233, 32234, 32235, 32236, 32238, 32239, 32240, 32241, 32244, 32245, 32246, 32247, 32250, 32254, 32255, 32256, 32257, 32258, 32259, 32260, 32266, 32277, 32656
PATRICK SFB, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,325 | $1,845 |
| E02 | $2,325 | $1,845 |
| E03 | $2,325 | $1,845 |
| E04 | $2,325 | $1,845 |
| E05 | $2,502 | $2,037 |
| E06 | $2,883 | $2,163 |
| E07 | $2,907 | $2,331 |
| E08 | $2,916 | $2,583 |
| E09 | $2,955 | $2,691 |
| W01 | $2,904 | $2,274 |
| W02 | $2,913 | $2,580 |
| W03 | $2,925 | $2,706 |
| W04 | $2,976 | $2,880 |
| W05 | $3,081 | $2,889 |
| O01E | $2,910 | $2,499 |
| O02E | $2,919 | $2,667 |
| O03E | $2,991 | $2,877 |
| O01 | $2,553 | $2,148 |
| O02 | $2,880 | $2,445 |
| O03 | $2,922 | $2,742 |
| O04 | $3,108 | $2,883 |
| O05 | $3,267 | $2,892 |
| O06 | $3,294 | $2,895 |
| O07 | $3,315 | $2,922 |
PATRICK SFB — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($2,502): ~$280,000 home · PITI ~$2,076/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($2,883): ~$325,000 home · PITI ~$2,392/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($2,907): ~$325,000 home · PITI ~$2,412/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($2,922): ~$325,000 home · PITI ~$2,425/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for PATRICK SFB, FL: 32754, 32775, 32780, 32781, 32783, 32796, 32815, 32899, 32901, 32902, 32903, 32904, 32905, 32906, 32907, 32908, 32909, 32910, 32911, 32912, 32919, 32920, 32922, 32923, 32924, 32925, 32926, 32927, 32931, 32932, 32934, 32935, 32936, 32937, 32940, 32941, 32949, 32950, 32951, 32952, 32953, 32954, 32955, 32956, 32959, 32976
MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $3,459 | $2,661 |
| E02 | $3,459 | $2,661 |
| E03 | $3,459 | $2,661 |
| E04 | $3,459 | $2,661 |
| E05 | $3,660 | $3,048 |
| E06 | $3,792 | $3,273 |
| E07 | $4,026 | $3,465 |
| E08 | $4,281 | $3,693 |
| E09 | $4,656 | $3,720 |
| W01 | $3,813 | $3,399 |
| W02 | $4,131 | $3,690 |
| W03 | $4,446 | $3,729 |
| W04 | $4,737 | $3,840 |
| W05 | $5,085 | $4,083 |
| O01E | $4,074 | $3,657 |
| O02E | $4,398 | $3,714 |
| O03E | $4,791 | $3,780 |
| O01 | $3,687 | $3,252 |
| O02 | $3,789 | $3,597 |
| O03 | $4,437 | $3,738 |
| O04 | $5,208 | $4,041 |
| O05 | $5,763 | $4,323 |
| O06 | $5,814 | $4,425 |
| O07 | $5,862 | $4,506 |
MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($3,660): ~$410,000 home · PITI ~$3,037/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($3,792): ~$425,000 home · PITI ~$3,147/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($4,026): ~$450,000 home · PITI ~$3,341/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($4,437): ~$495,000 home · PITI ~$3,682/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE, FL: 33002, 33004, 33008, 33009, 33010, 33011, 33012, 33013, 33014, 33015, 33016, 33017, 33018, 33019, 33020, 33021, 33022, 33023, 33024, 33025, 33026, 33027, 33028, 33029, 33030, 33031, 33032, 33033, 33034, 33035, 33039, 33054, 33055, 33056, 33060, 33061, 33062, 33063, 33064, 33065, 33066, 33067, 33068, 33069, 33071, 33072, 33073, 33074, 33075, 33076, 33077, 33081, 33082, 33083, 33084, 33090, 33092, 33093, 33097, 33101, 33102, 33106, 33109, 33111, 33112, 33114, 33116, 33119, 33122, 33124, 33125, 33126, 33127, 33128, 33129, 33130, 33131, 33132, 33133, 33134, 33135, 33136, 33137, 33138, 33139, 33140, 33141, 33142, 33143, 33144, 33145, 33146, 33147, 33149, 33150, 33151, 33152, 33153, 33154, 33155, 33156, 33157, 33158, 33160, 33161, 33162, 33163, 33164, 33165, 33166, 33167, 33168, 33169, 33170, 33172, 33173, 33174, 33175, 33176, 33177, 33178, 33179, 33180, 33181, 33182, 33183, 33184, 33185, 33186, 33187, 33188, 33189, 33190, 33191, 33192, 33193, 33194, 33195, 33196, 33197, 33198, 33199, 33206, 33222, 33231, 33233, 33234, 33238, 33239, 33242, 33243, 33245, 33247, 33255, 33256, 33257, 33261, 33265, 33266, 33269, 33280, 33283, 33296, 33299, 33301, 33302, 33303, 33304, 33305, 33306, 33307, 33308, 33309, 33310, 33311, 33312, 33313, 33314, 33315, 33316, 33317, 33318, 33319, 33320, 33321, 33322, 33323, 33324, 33325, 33326, 33327, 33328, 33329, 33330, 33331, 33332, 33334, 33335, 33336, 33337, 33338, 33339, 33340, 33345, 33346, 33348, 33349, 33351, 33355, 33359, 33388, 33394, 33427, 33428, 33431, 33432, 33433, 33434, 33441, 33442, 33443, 33486, 33497, 33498
ORLANDO, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,454 | $1,842 |
| E02 | $2,454 | $1,842 |
| E03 | $2,454 | $1,842 |
| E04 | $2,454 | $1,842 |
| E05 | $2,658 | $2,103 |
| E06 | $2,961 | $2,268 |
| E07 | $2,982 | $2,460 |
| E08 | $2,991 | $2,724 |
| E09 | $3,018 | $2,808 |
| W01 | $2,979 | $2,394 |
| W02 | $2,988 | $2,721 |
| W03 | $3,000 | $2,820 |
| W04 | $3,033 | $2,955 |
| W05 | $3,114 | $2,967 |
| O01E | $2,985 | $2,655 |
| O02E | $2,994 | $2,787 |
| O03E | $3,045 | $2,952 |
| O01 | $2,700 | $2,247 |
| O02 | $2,958 | $2,592 |
| O03 | $2,997 | $2,847 |
| O04 | $3,135 | $2,958 |
| O05 | $3,255 | $2,970 |
| O06 | $3,282 | $2,973 |
| O07 | $3,303 | $3,000 |
ORLANDO — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($2,658): ~$300,000 home · PITI ~$2,206/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($2,961): ~$330,000 home · PITI ~$2,457/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($2,982): ~$335,000 home · PITI ~$2,475/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($2,997): ~$335,000 home · PITI ~$2,487/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for ORLANDO, FL: 32701, 32703, 32704, 32707, 32708, 32709, 32710, 32712, 32714, 32715, 32716, 32718, 32719, 32730, 32732, 32733, 32745, 32746, 32747, 32750, 32751, 32752, 32762, 32765, 32766, 32768, 32771, 32772, 32773, 32777, 32779, 32789, 32790, 32791, 32792, 32793, 32794, 32795, 32798, 32799, 32801, 32802, 32803, 32804, 32805, 32806, 32807, 32808, 32809, 32810, 32811, 32812, 32814, 32816, 32817, 32818, 32819, 32820, 32821, 32822, 32824, 32825, 32826, 32827, 32828, 32829, 32830, 32831, 32832, 32833, 32834, 32835, 32836, 32837, 32839, 32853, 32854, 32855, 32856, 32857, 32858, 32859, 32860, 32861, 32862, 32867, 32868, 32869, 32872, 32877, 32878, 32885, 32886, 32887, 32891, 32896, 32897, 33848, 34734, 34739, 34740, 34741, 34742, 34743, 34744, 34745, 34746, 34747, 34758, 34760, 347
WEST PALM BEACH, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $3,189 | $2,409 |
| E02 | $3,189 | $2,409 |
| E03 | $3,189 | $2,409 |
| E04 | $3,189 | $2,409 |
| E05 | $3,423 | $2,763 |
| E06 | $3,606 | $2,976 |
| E07 | $3,738 | $3,198 |
| E08 | $3,885 | $3,465 |
| E09 | $4,110 | $3,510 |
| W01 | $3,624 | $3,117 |
| W02 | $3,798 | $3,462 |
| W03 | $3,981 | $3,519 |
| W04 | $4,155 | $3,630 |
| W05 | $4,371 | $3,771 |
| O01E | $3,765 | $3,420 |
| O02E | $3,954 | $3,498 |
| O03E | $4,191 | $3,594 |
| O01 | $3,453 | $2,952 |
| O02 | $3,603 | $3,348 |
| O03 | $3,975 | $3,534 |
| O04 | $4,443 | $3,741 |
| O05 | $4,782 | $3,822 |
| O06 | $4,824 | $3,960 |
| O07 | $4,860 | $4,029 |
WEST PALM BEACH — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($3,423): ~$385,000 home · PITI ~$2,841/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($3,606): ~$405,000 home · PITI ~$2,992/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($3,738): ~$420,000 home · PITI ~$3,102/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($3,975): ~$445,000 home · PITI ~$3,299/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for WEST PALM BEACH, FL: 33401, 33402, 33403, 33404, 33405, 33406, 33407, 33408, 33409, 33410, 33411, 33412, 33413, 33414, 33415, 33416, 33417, 33418, 33419, 33420, 33421, 33422, 33424, 33425, 33426, 33429, 33430, 33435, 33436, 33437, 33438, 33444, 33445, 33446, 33448, 33449, 33454, 33458, 33459, 33460, 33461, 33462, 33463, 33464, 33465, 33466, 33467, 33468, 33469, 33470, 33472, 33473, 33474, 33476, 33477, 33478, 33480, 33481, 33482, 33483, 33484, 33487, 33488, 33493, 33496, 33499
OCALA, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,205 | $1,785 |
| E02 | $2,205 | $1,785 |
| E03 | $2,205 | $1,785 |
| E04 | $2,205 | $1,785 |
| E05 | $2,370 | $1,944 |
| E06 | $2,391 | $2,055 |
| E07 | $2,409 | $2,211 |
| E08 | $2,424 | $2,382 |
| E09 | $2,517 | $2,388 |
| W01 | $2,406 | $2,160 |
| W02 | $2,415 | $2,379 |
| W03 | $2,442 | $2,391 |
| W04 | $2,544 | $2,400 |
| W05 | $2,676 | $2,406 |
| O01E | $2,412 | $2,367 |
| O02E | $2,433 | $2,385 |
| O03E | $2,565 | $2,397 |
| O01 | $2,382 | $2,037 |
| O02 | $2,388 | $2,319 |
| O03 | $2,439 | $2,394 |
| O04 | $2,718 | $2,403 |
| O05 | $2,922 | $2,409 |
| O06 | $2,943 | $2,418 |
| O07 | $2,961 | $2,457 |
OCALA — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($2,370): ~$265,000 home · PITI ~$1,967/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($2,391): ~$270,000 home · PITI ~$1,984/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($2,409): ~$270,000 home · PITI ~$1,999/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($2,439): ~$275,000 home · PITI ~$2,024/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for OCALA, FL: 32102, 32111, 32113, 32133, 32134, 32158, 32159, 32162, 32163, 32179, 32182, 32183, 32192, 32195, 32617, 32621, 32625, 32626, 32634, 32639, 32644, 32663, 32664, 32668, 32681, 32683, 32686, 32696, 32702, 32726, 32727, 32735, 32736, 32756, 32757, 32767, 32776, 32778, 32784, 33513, 33514, 33521, 33538, 33585, 33597, 34420, 34421, 34423, 34428, 34429, 34430, 34431, 34432, 34433, 34434, 34436, 34441, 34442, 34445, 34446, 34447, 34448, 34449, 34450, 34451, 34452, 34453, 34460, 34461, 34464, 34465, 34470, 34471, 34472, 34473, 34474, 34475, 34476, 34477, 34478, 34479, 34480, 34481, 34482, 34483, 34484, 34487, 34488, 34489, 34491, 34492, 34498, 34705, 34711, 34712, 34713, 34714, 34715, 34729, 34731, 34736, 34737, 34748, 34749, 34753, 34755, 34756, 34762, 34785, 34788, 34789, 34797
FLORIDA KEYS, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $3,813 | $3,084 |
| E02 | $3,813 | $3,084 |
| E03 | $3,813 | $3,084 |
| E04 | $3,813 | $3,084 |
| E05 | $3,969 | $3,459 |
| E06 | $4,056 | $3,672 |
| E07 | $4,350 | $3,819 |
| E08 | $4,677 | $3,993 |
| E09 | $5,097 | $4,005 |
| W01 | $4,074 | $3,771 |
| W02 | $4,485 | $3,990 |
| W03 | $4,884 | $4,011 |
| W04 | $5,178 | $4,119 |
| W05 | $5,529 | $4,425 |
| O01E | $4,413 | $3,966 |
| O02E | $4,827 | $4,002 |
| O03E | $5,232 | $4,044 |
| O01 | $3,987 | $3,657 |
| O02 | $4,053 | $3,921 |
| O03 | $4,872 | $4,017 |
| O04 | $5,655 | $4,374 |
| O05 | $6,213 | $4,659 |
| O06 | $6,267 | $4,863 |
| O07 | $6,321 | $4,953 |
FLORIDA KEYS — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($3,969): ~$445,000 home · PITI ~$3,294/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($4,056): ~$455,000 home · PITI ~$3,366/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($4,350): ~$485,000 home · PITI ~$3,610/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($4,872): ~$545,000 home · PITI ~$4,043/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for FLORIDA KEYS, FL: 33001, 33036, 33037, 33040, 33041, 33042, 33043, 33045, 33050, 33051, 33052, 33070
VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,112 | $1,647 |
| E02 | $2,112 | $1,647 |
| E03 | $2,112 | $1,647 |
| E04 | $2,112 | $1,647 |
| E05 | $2,286 | $1,833 |
| E06 | $2,496 | $1,956 |
| E07 | $2,544 | $2,118 |
| E08 | $2,598 | $2,334 |
| E09 | $2,688 | $2,385 |
| W01 | $2,511 | $2,064 |
| W02 | $2,565 | $2,331 |
| W03 | $2,637 | $2,394 |
| W04 | $2,706 | $2,499 |
| W05 | $2,802 | $2,553 |
| O01E | $2,550 | $2,283 |
| O02E | $2,622 | $2,373 |
| O03E | $2,721 | $2,484 |
| O01 | $2,319 | $1,938 |
| O02 | $2,493 | $2,232 |
| O03 | $2,634 | $2,415 |
| O04 | $2,826 | $2,538 |
| O05 | $2,970 | $2,565 |
| O06 | $2,991 | $2,613 |
| O07 | $3,012 | $2,655 |
VOLUSIA COUNTY — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($2,286): ~$255,000 home · PITI ~$1,897/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($2,496): ~$280,000 home · PITI ~$2,071/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($2,544): ~$285,000 home · PITI ~$2,111/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($2,634): ~$295,000 home · PITI ~$2,186/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL: 32105, 32110, 32114, 32115, 32116, 32117, 32118, 32119, 32120, 32121, 32122, 32123, 32124, 32125, 32126, 32127, 32128, 32129, 32130, 32132, 32135, 32136, 32137, 32141, 32142, 32143, 32164, 32168, 32169, 32170, 32173, 32174, 32175, 32176, 32180, 32190, 32198, 32706, 32713, 32720, 32721, 32722, 32723, 32724, 32725, 32728, 32738, 32739, 32744, 32753, 32759, 32763, 32764, 32774
FORT PIERCE, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,499 | $2,004 |
| E02 | $2,499 | $2,004 |
| E03 | $2,499 | $2,004 |
| E04 | $2,499 | $2,004 |
| E05 | $2,691 | $2,193 |
| E06 | $2,829 | $2,322 |
| E07 | $2,916 | $2,505 |
| E08 | $3,015 | $2,724 |
| E09 | $3,171 | $2,754 |
| W01 | $2,844 | $2,442 |
| W02 | $2,958 | $2,721 |
| W03 | $3,081 | $2,760 |
| W04 | $3,204 | $2,841 |
| W05 | $3,360 | $2,940 |
| O01E | $2,934 | $2,688 |
| O02E | $3,060 | $2,748 |
| O03E | $3,228 | $2,817 |
| O01 | $2,715 | $2,301 |
| O02 | $2,826 | $2,628 |
| O03 | $3,078 | $2,772 |
| O04 | $3,408 | $2,916 |
| O05 | $3,648 | $2,970 |
| O06 | $3,675 | $3,060 |
| O07 | $3,702 | $3,111 |
FORT PIERCE — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($2,691): ~$300,000 home · PITI ~$2,233/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($2,829): ~$315,000 home · PITI ~$2,348/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($2,916): ~$325,000 home · PITI ~$2,420/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($3,078): ~$345,000 home · PITI ~$2,554/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for FORT PIERCE, FL: 32948, 32957, 32958, 32960, 32961, 32962, 32963, 32964, 32965, 32966, 32967, 32968, 32969, 32970, 32971, 32978, 34945, 34946, 34947, 34948, 34949, 34950, 34951, 34952, 34953, 34954, 34979, 34981, 34982, 34983, 34984, 34985, 34986, 34987, 34988
FORT MYERS BEACH, FL BAH Rates
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,553 | $2,094 |
| E02 | $2,553 | $2,094 |
| E03 | $2,553 | $2,094 |
| E04 | $2,553 | $2,094 |
| E05 | $2,694 | $2,295 |
| E06 | $2,919 | $2,421 |
| E07 | $2,994 | $2,556 |
| E08 | $3,078 | $2,745 |
| E09 | $3,192 | $2,802 |
| W01 | $2,937 | $2,514 |
| W02 | $3,027 | $2,742 |
| W03 | $3,132 | $2,814 |
| W04 | $3,213 | $2,931 |
| W05 | $3,315 | $3,012 |
| O01E | $3,006 | $2,691 |
| O02E | $3,114 | $2,790 |
| O03E | $3,228 | $2,910 |
| O01 | $2,730 | $2,406 |
| O02 | $2,916 | $2,652 |
| O03 | $3,129 | $2,835 |
| O04 | $3,345 | $2,991 |
| O05 | $3,504 | $3,036 |
| O06 | $3,531 | $3,111 |
| O07 | $3,555 | $3,165 |
FORT MYERS BEACH — What Your BAH Can Buy
At current VA loan rates (~6.5%), here is what common ranks can target:
- E-5 w/dep ($2,694): ~$300,000 home · PITI ~$2,236/mo
- E-6 w/dep ($2,919): ~$325,000 home · PITI ~$2,422/mo
- E-7 w/dep ($2,994): ~$335,000 home · PITI ~$2,485/mo
- O-3 w/dep ($3,129): ~$350,000 home · PITI ~$2,597/mo
BAH ZIP Codes for FORT MYERS BEACH, FL: 33901, 33902, 33903, 33904, 33905, 33906, 33907, 33908, 33909, 33910, 33911, 33912, 33913, 33914, 33915, 33916, 33917, 33918, 33919, 33920, 33921, 33922, 33924, 33928, 33929, 33931, 33932, 33936, 33945, 33956, 33957, 33965, 33966, 33967, 33970, 33971, 33972, 33973, 33974, 33976, 33990, 33991, 33993, 33994, 34133, 34134, 34135, 34136
VA Loans Near Florida Military Bases
Florida BAH rates for an E-6 with dependents range from $2,241/month (JACKSONVILLE) to $4,056/month (FLORIDA KEYS). That translates to estimated buying power from $250,000 to $455,000 at current VA loan rates.
As a no-income-tax state, Florida service members keep more of their base pay, which helps with qualification and monthly cash flow. Veterans with a service-connected disability rating may qualify for property tax exemptions that further reduce the monthly housing cost.
2026 BAH FAQs for Florida
How much did Florida BAH rates increase in 2026?
Florida BAH rates increased by about 5.4% in 2026, especially in metro areas like Tampa and Jacksonville. See also: BAH Rates Illinois 2026 | VA.
Where is BAH highest in Florida?
The highest BAH rates are typically in ZIP codes around Miami, Tampa (MacDill AFB), and Key West.
What is BAH for an E-5 with dependents at NAS Pensacola?
As of 2026, an E-5 with dependents stationed at NAS Pensacola receives approximately $2,088/month.
Does BAH cover rent in Florida?
In most areas, yes. BAH fully covers housing costs near bases like Eglin and Pensacola. Urban ZIPs may require some out-of-pocket.
Do all Florida bases have the same BAH?
No. Each installation is in a different MHA, so BAH varies based on ZIP code and housing demand.
Is BAH taxable in Florida?
No. BAH is a non-taxable military housing benefit.
Can single service members receive BAH?
Yes, if authorized to live off base or if government quarters are not provided.
Can I use BAH as income for a VA loan?
Yes. Lenders accept BAH as qualifying income for home loan approval.
When are BAH rates updated?
Rates are revised annually by the DoD and take effect each January.
What MHA is used for MacDill AFB?
MacDill AFB is part of MHA FL029, covering the greater Tampa area including ZIP code 33621.
How does the tax-free gross-up work for BAH?
Some lenders multiply your BAH by 1.25 to reflect its tax-free value when calculating your debt-to-income ratio. This gross-up can increase your qualifying income by 15 to 25 percent, which directly improves the loan amount you can qualify for.
What happens to my VA loan if BAH rates drop next year?
Your mortgage payment does not change — it is a fixed-rate loan locked at closing. Rate protection may keep your BAH at the higher amount while you remain stationed at the same base.
Should I spend my entire BAH on housing?
No. Target 80 to 85 percent of your BAH for your total PITI payment. Leave room for property taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance.
Can my spouse’s income be combined with BAH for VA loan qualification?
Yes. Combined income with BAH gross-up can significantly increase buying power. Both incomes are used for the DTI calculation, and the spouse does not need to be a veteran.
