2026 Florida BAH Rates by Base, Rank, and Dependents
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2026 Florida BAH Rates

Rates and VA Loan Buying Power

2026 Florida BAH Rates and VA Loan Buying Power

Written by: NMLS#151017Written by: (NMLS 151017)
Reviewed by: VA Loan Network Editorial Team, Editorial Team
Updated on
Primary sources:
DoD BAH Lookup

VA Home Loan Overview

Florida has 16 Military Housing Areas. E-5 with-dependents BAH ranges from $1,824 to $3,969 per month; E-6 with dependents ranges from $2,061 to $4,056. Buying-power assumptions are stated below the table.


Next step:
Check Your VA Loan Eligibility

Table 1. Florida Military Housing Areas at a glance
MHA E-5 w/dep E-6 w/dep E-6 buying power
EGLIN AFB, FL $2,433 $2,526 ~$275,000
GAINESVILLE, FL $2,040 $2,355 ~$255,000
JACKSONVILLE, FL $2,181 $2,241 ~$245,000
PATRICK SFB, FL $2,502 $2,883 ~$315,000
MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE, FL $3,660 $3,792 ~$410,000
ORLANDO, FL $2,658 $2,961 ~$320,000
PANAMA CITY, FL $2,163 $2,442 ~$265,000
PENSACOLA, FL $1,863 $2,235 ~$245,000
TALLAHASSEE, FL $1,824 $2,061 ~$225,000
TAMPA, FL $2,709 $3,042 ~$330,000
WEST PALM BEACH, FL $3,423 $3,606 ~$390,000
OCALA, FL $2,370 $2,391 ~$260,000
FLORIDA KEYS, FL $3,969 $4,056 ~$440,000
VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL $2,286 $2,496 ~$270,000
FORT PIERCE, FL $2,691 $2,829 ~$305,000
FORT MYERS BEACH, FL $2,694 $2,919 ~$315,000

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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.

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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.

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Strong VA rates · Most lenders
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STEP 04 · TIMELINE
When are you thinking of buying?
YOUR BUYING POWER
Your BAH buys you a home worth this much.
ESTIMATED HOME PRICE
$0

With $0 down and your VA benefit

▸Estimated VA rate
—
▸Down payment
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▸Funding fee (financed)
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▸Estimated monthly payment
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▸BAH surplus per month
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Florida BAH Snapshot

  • MHA count: 16 Military Housing Areas
  • E-5 w/dep range: $1,824 to $3,969/mo
  • E-6 w/dep range: $2,061 to $4,056/mo
  • Buying power range: ~$200,000 to ~$440,000

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

  • FLORIDA KEYS, FL: E-6 w/dep $4,056/mo, ~$440,000 buying power
  • MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE, FL: E-6 w/dep $3,792/mo, ~$410,000 buying power
  • WEST PALM BEACH, FL: E-6 w/dep $3,606/mo, ~$390,000 buying power
  • TAMPA, FL: E-6 w/dep $3,042/mo, ~$330,000 buying power

Lowest BAH in Texas

  • TALLAHASSEE, FL: E-6 w/dep $2,061/mo, ~$225,000 buying power
  • PENSACOLA, FL: E-6 w/dep $2,235/mo, ~$245,000 buying power
  • JACKSONVILLE, FL: E-6 w/dep $2,241/mo, ~$245,000 buying power
  • GAINESVILLE, FL: E-6 w/dep $2,355/mo, ~$255,000 buying power

The Bottom Line Up Front

Florida BAH rates vary by more than $1,995 per month at E-6 with dependents. The highest rate is $4,056 (FLORIDA KEYS, FL) and the lowest is $2,061 (TALLAHASSEE, FL). That spread translates to a buying-power difference of roughly $215,000 at current VA loan terms.

How to Use Florida 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 Florida: 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 Florida: 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

Florida Housing Costs and BAH Impact

Your BAH rate depends on the Military Housing Area assigned to your duty station, and the same rank can produce different buying power across Florida.

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 Florida VA loan guide.

Explore More BAH Insights

Florida 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, Florida property tax at 0.73 percent (2023 ACS), homeowners insurance at 0.70 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).

EGLIN AFB, FL (MHA FL056): E-5 w/dep $2,433, E-6 w/dep $2,526, ~$275,000 buying power

EGLIN AFB, FL BAH Rates

Table 2. 2026 BAH rates for EGLIN AFB, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,340 $2,007
E-2 $2,340 $2,007
E-3 $2,340 $2,007
E-4 $2,340 $2,007
E-5 $2,433 $2,157
E-6 $2,526 $2,250
E-7 $2,841 $2,340
E-8 $3,189 $2,457
E-9 $3,447 $2,586
W-1 $2,544 $2,322
W-2 $2,985 $2,454
W-3 $3,414 $2,589
W-4 $3,456 $2,604
W-5 $3,516 $2,922
O-1E $2,910 $2,430
O-2E $3,351 $2,514
O-3E $3,468 $2,601
O-1 $2,451 $2,244
O-2 $2,523 $2,406
O-3 $3,399 $2,592
O-4 $3,528 $2,865
O-5 $3,612 $3,066
O-6 $3,642 $3,393
O-7 $3,669 $3,453

EGLIN AFB, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,433): ~$265,000 home, PITI ~$2,027/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,526): ~$275,000 home, PITI ~$2,103/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,841): ~$310,000 home, PITI ~$2,371/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($3,399): ~$370,000 home, PITI ~$2,830/mo
GAINESVILLE, FL (MHA FL057): E-5 w/dep $2,040, E-6 w/dep $2,355, ~$255,000 buying power

GAINESVILLE, FL BAH Rates

Table 3. 2026 BAH rates for GAINESVILLE, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,986 $1,572
E-2 $1,986 $1,572
E-3 $1,986 $1,572
E-4 $1,986 $1,572
E-5 $2,040 $1,800
E-6 $2,355 $1,932
E-7 $2,478 $1,983
E-8 $2,613 $2,109
E-9 $2,793 $2,196
W-1 $2,373 $1,980
W-2 $2,532 $2,106
W-3 $2,700 $2,208
W-4 $2,826 $2,379
W-5 $2,982 $2,508
O-1E $2,502 $2,037
O-2E $2,676 $2,175
O-3E $2,850 $2,346
O-1 $2,085 $1,929
O-2 $2,352 $2,025
O-3 $2,697 $2,238
O-4 $3,033 $2,481
O-5 $3,276 $2,556
O-6 $3,300 $2,679
O-7 $3,324 $2,724

GAINESVILLE, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,040): ~$220,000 home, PITI ~$1,683/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,355): ~$255,000 home, PITI ~$1,950/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,478): ~$270,000 home, PITI ~$2,065/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,697): ~$295,000 home, PITI ~$2,256/mo
JACKSONVILLE, FL (MHA FL058): E-5 w/dep $2,181, E-6 w/dep $2,241, ~$245,000 buying power

JACKSONVILLE, FL BAH Rates

Table 4. 2026 BAH rates for JACKSONVILLE, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,046 $1,623
E-2 $2,046 $1,623
E-3 $2,046 $1,623
E-4 $2,046 $1,623
E-5 $2,181 $1,803
E-6 $2,241 $1,920
E-7 $2,283 $2,049
E-8 $2,331 $2,199
E-9 $2,424 $2,205
W-1 $2,256 $2,010
W-2 $2,301 $2,196
W-3 $2,367 $2,208
W-4 $2,445 $2,241
W-5 $2,550 $2,292
O-1E $2,289 $2,178
O-2E $2,355 $2,202
O-3E $2,463 $2,229
O-1 $2,196 $1,908
O-2 $2,238 $2,139
O-3 $2,364 $2,211
O-4 $2,580 $2,277
O-5 $2,736 $2,301
O-6 $2,757 $2,343
O-7 $2,775 $2,382

JACKSONVILLE, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,181): ~$235,000 home, PITI ~$1,797/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,241): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$1,874/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,283): ~$250,000 home, PITI ~$1,912/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,364): ~$255,000 home, PITI ~$1,950/mo
PATRICK SFB, FL (MHA FL059): E-5 w/dep $2,502, E-6 w/dep $2,883, ~$315,000 buying power

PATRICK SFB, FL BAH Rates

Table 5. 2026 BAH rates for PATRICK SFB, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,325 $1,845
E-2 $2,325 $1,845
E-3 $2,325 $1,845
E-4 $2,325 $1,845
E-5 $2,502 $2,037
E-6 $2,883 $2,163
E-7 $2,907 $2,331
E-8 $2,916 $2,583
E-9 $2,955 $2,691
W-1 $2,904 $2,274
W-2 $2,913 $2,580
W-3 $2,925 $2,706
W-4 $2,976 $2,880
W-5 $3,081 $2,889
O-1E $2,910 $2,499
O-2E $2,919 $2,667
O-3E $2,991 $2,877
O-1 $2,553 $2,148
O-2 $2,880 $2,445
O-3 $2,922 $2,742
O-4 $3,108 $2,883
O-5 $3,267 $2,892
O-6 $3,294 $2,895
O-7 $3,315 $2,922

PATRICK SFB, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,502): ~$270,000 home, PITI ~$2,065/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,883): ~$315,000 home, PITI ~$2,409/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,907): ~$315,000 home, PITI ~$2,409/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,922): ~$315,000 home, PITI ~$2,409/mo
MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (MHA FL061): E-5 w/dep $3,660, E-6 w/dep $3,792, ~$410,000 buying power

MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE, FL BAH Rates

Table 6. 2026 BAH rates for MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $3,459 $2,661
E-2 $3,459 $2,661
E-3 $3,459 $2,661
E-4 $3,459 $2,661
E-5 $3,660 $3,048
E-6 $3,792 $3,273
E-7 $4,026 $3,465
E-8 $4,281 $3,693
E-9 $4,656 $3,720
W-1 $3,813 $3,399
W-2 $4,131 $3,690
W-3 $4,446 $3,729
W-4 $4,737 $3,840
W-5 $5,085 $4,083
O-1E $4,074 $3,657
O-2E $4,398 $3,714
O-3E $4,791 $3,780
O-1 $3,687 $3,252
O-2 $3,789 $3,597
O-3 $4,437 $3,738
O-4 $5,208 $4,041
O-5 $5,763 $4,323
O-6 $5,814 $4,425
O-7 $5,862 $4,506

MIAMI/FORT LAUDERDALE, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($3,660): ~$395,000 home, PITI ~$3,021/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($3,792): ~$410,000 home, PITI ~$3,136/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($4,026): ~$435,000 home, PITI ~$3,327/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($4,437): ~$480,000 home, PITI ~$3,671/mo
ORLANDO, FL (MHA FL062): E-5 w/dep $2,658, E-6 w/dep $2,961, ~$320,000 buying power

ORLANDO, FL BAH Rates

Table 7. 2026 BAH rates for ORLANDO, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,454 $1,842
E-2 $2,454 $1,842
E-3 $2,454 $1,842
E-4 $2,454 $1,842
E-5 $2,658 $2,103
E-6 $2,961 $2,268
E-7 $2,982 $2,460
E-8 $2,991 $2,724
E-9 $3,018 $2,808
W-1 $2,979 $2,394
W-2 $2,988 $2,721
W-3 $3,000 $2,820
W-4 $3,033 $2,955
W-5 $3,114 $2,967
O-1E $2,985 $2,655
O-2E $2,994 $2,787
O-3E $3,045 $2,952
O-1 $2,700 $2,247
O-2 $2,958 $2,592
O-3 $2,997 $2,847
O-4 $3,135 $2,958
O-5 $3,255 $2,970
O-6 $3,282 $2,973
O-7 $3,303 $3,000

ORLANDO, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,658): ~$290,000 home, PITI ~$2,218/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,961): ~$320,000 home, PITI ~$2,447/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,982): ~$325,000 home, PITI ~$2,486/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,997): ~$325,000 home, PITI ~$2,486/mo
PANAMA CITY, FL (MHA FL063): E-5 w/dep $2,163, E-6 w/dep $2,442, ~$265,000 buying power

PANAMA CITY, FL BAH Rates

Table 8. 2026 BAH rates for PANAMA CITY, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,058 $1,713
E-2 $2,058 $1,713
E-3 $2,058 $1,713
E-4 $2,058 $1,713
E-5 $2,163 $1,863
E-6 $2,442 $1,959
E-7 $2,538 $2,058
E-8 $2,643 $2,223
E-9 $2,766 $2,298
W-1 $2,460 $2,037
W-2 $2,580 $2,220
W-3 $2,712 $2,310
W-4 $2,787 $2,460
W-5 $2,886 $2,562
O-1E $2,556 $2,160
O-2E $2,691 $2,280
O-3E $2,802 $2,433
O-1 $2,202 $1,953
O-2 $2,439 $2,133
O-3 $2,709 $2,337
O-4 $2,913 $2,538
O-5 $3,060 $2,595
O-6 $3,084 $2,691
O-7 $3,105 $2,736

PANAMA CITY, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,163): ~$235,000 home, PITI ~$1,797/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,442): ~$265,000 home, PITI ~$2,027/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,538): ~$275,000 home, PITI ~$2,103/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,709): ~$295,000 home, PITI ~$2,256/mo
PENSACOLA, FL (MHA FL064): E-5 w/dep $1,863, E-6 w/dep $2,235, ~$245,000 buying power

PENSACOLA, FL BAH Rates

Table 9. 2026 BAH rates for PENSACOLA, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,794 $1,521
E-2 $1,794 $1,521
E-3 $1,794 $1,521
E-4 $1,794 $1,521
E-5 $1,863 $1,644
E-6 $2,235 $1,722
E-7 $2,256 $1,791
E-8 $2,265 $1,941
E-9 $2,304 $2,046
W-1 $2,253 $1,782
W-2 $2,262 $1,938
W-3 $2,274 $2,061
W-4 $2,325 $2,229
W-5 $2,427 $2,241
O-1E $2,259 $1,860
O-2E $2,268 $2,022
O-3E $2,340 $2,226
O-1 $1,914 $1,719
O-2 $2,232 $1,842
O-3 $2,271 $2,097
O-4 $2,457 $2,232
O-5 $2,610 $2,244
O-6 $2,631 $2,247
O-7 $2,646 $2,259

PENSACOLA, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,863): ~$200,000 home, PITI ~$1,530/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,235): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$1,874/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,256): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$1,874/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,271): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$1,874/mo
TALLAHASSEE, FL (MHA FL065): E-5 w/dep $1,824, E-6 w/dep $2,061, ~$225,000 buying power

TALLAHASSEE, FL BAH Rates

Table 10. 2026 BAH rates for TALLAHASSEE, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,779 $1,443
E-2 $1,779 $1,443
E-3 $1,779 $1,443
E-4 $1,779 $1,443
E-5 $1,824 $1,626
E-6 $2,061 $1,734
E-7 $2,250 $1,782
E-8 $2,454 $1,878
E-9 $2,670 $2,004
W-1 $2,082 $1,779
W-2 $2,334 $1,875
W-3 $2,586 $2,007
W-4 $2,700 $2,100
W-5 $2,838 $2,295
O-1E $2,286 $1,821
O-2E $2,550 $1,926
O-3E $2,721 $2,052
O-1 $1,860 $1,731
O-2 $2,058 $1,815
O-3 $2,580 $2,010
O-4 $2,883 $2,259
O-5 $3,099 $2,376
O-6 $3,123 $2,565
O-7 $3,144 $2,610

TALLAHASSEE, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,824): ~$200,000 home, PITI ~$1,530/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,061): ~$225,000 home, PITI ~$1,721/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,250): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$1,874/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,580): ~$280,000 home, PITI ~$2,142/mo
TAMPA, FL (MHA FL066): E-5 w/dep $2,709, E-6 w/dep $3,042, ~$330,000 buying power

TAMPA, FL BAH Rates

Table 11. 2026 BAH rates for TAMPA, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,520 $1,932
E-2 $2,520 $1,932
E-3 $2,520 $1,932
E-4 $2,520 $1,932
E-5 $2,709 $2,187
E-6 $3,042 $2,346
E-7 $3,066 $2,526
E-8 $3,075 $2,781
E-9 $3,123 $2,874
W-1 $3,063 $2,463
W-2 $3,072 $2,778
W-3 $3,084 $2,886
W-4 $3,141 $3,039
W-5 $3,231 $3,054
O-1E $3,069 $2,706
O-2E $3,078 $2,853
O-3E $3,156 $3,036
O-1 $2,757 $2,328
O-2 $3,039 $2,649
O-3 $3,081 $2,919
O-4 $3,255 $3,042
O-5 $3,390 $3,057
O-6 $3,417 $3,060
O-7 $3,441 $3,102

TAMPA, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,709): ~$295,000 home, PITI ~$2,256/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($3,042): ~$330,000 home, PITI ~$2,524/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($3,066): ~$335,000 home, PITI ~$2,562/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($3,081): ~$335,000 home, PITI ~$2,562/mo
WEST PALM BEACH, FL (MHA FL067): E-5 w/dep $3,423, E-6 w/dep $3,606, ~$390,000 buying power

WEST PALM BEACH, FL BAH Rates

Table 12. 2026 BAH rates for WEST PALM BEACH, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $3,189 $2,409
E-2 $3,189 $2,409
E-3 $3,189 $2,409
E-4 $3,189 $2,409
E-5 $3,423 $2,763
E-6 $3,606 $2,976
E-7 $3,738 $3,198
E-8 $3,885 $3,465
E-9 $4,110 $3,510
W-1 $3,624 $3,117
W-2 $3,798 $3,462
W-3 $3,981 $3,519
W-4 $4,155 $3,630
W-5 $4,371 $3,771
O-1E $3,765 $3,420
O-2E $3,954 $3,498
O-3E $4,191 $3,594
O-1 $3,453 $2,952
O-2 $3,603 $3,348
O-3 $3,975 $3,534
O-4 $4,443 $3,741
O-5 $4,782 $3,822
O-6 $4,824 $3,960
O-7 $4,860 $4,029

WEST PALM BEACH, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($3,423): ~$370,000 home, PITI ~$2,830/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($3,606): ~$390,000 home, PITI ~$2,983/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($3,738): ~$405,000 home, PITI ~$3,098/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($3,975): ~$430,000 home, PITI ~$3,289/mo
OCALA, FL (MHA FL068): E-5 w/dep $2,370, E-6 w/dep $2,391, ~$260,000 buying power

OCALA, FL BAH Rates

Table 13. 2026 BAH rates for OCALA, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,205 $1,785
E-2 $2,205 $1,785
E-3 $2,205 $1,785
E-4 $2,205 $1,785
E-5 $2,370 $1,944
E-6 $2,391 $2,055
E-7 $2,409 $2,211
E-8 $2,424 $2,382
E-9 $2,517 $2,388
W-1 $2,406 $2,160
W-2 $2,415 $2,379
W-3 $2,442 $2,391
W-4 $2,544 $2,400
W-5 $2,676 $2,406
O-1E $2,412 $2,367
O-2E $2,433 $2,385
O-3E $2,565 $2,397
O-1 $2,382 $2,037
O-2 $2,388 $2,319
O-3 $2,439 $2,394
O-4 $2,718 $2,403
O-5 $2,922 $2,409
O-6 $2,943 $2,418
O-7 $2,961 $2,457

OCALA, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,370): ~$255,000 home, PITI ~$1,950/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,391): ~$260,000 home, PITI ~$1,989/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,409): ~$260,000 home, PITI ~$1,989/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,439): ~$265,000 home, PITI ~$2,027/mo
FLORIDA KEYS, FL (MHA FL069): E-5 w/dep $3,969, E-6 w/dep $4,056, ~$440,000 buying power

FLORIDA KEYS, FL BAH Rates

Table 14. 2026 BAH rates for FLORIDA KEYS, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $3,813 $3,084
E-2 $3,813 $3,084
E-3 $3,813 $3,084
E-4 $3,813 $3,084
E-5 $3,969 $3,459
E-6 $4,056 $3,672
E-7 $4,350 $3,819
E-8 $4,677 $3,993
E-9 $5,097 $4,005
W-1 $4,074 $3,771
W-2 $4,485 $3,990
W-3 $4,884 $4,011
W-4 $5,178 $4,119
W-5 $5,529 $4,425
O-1E $4,413 $3,966
O-2E $4,827 $4,002
O-3E $5,232 $4,044
O-1 $3,987 $3,657
O-2 $4,053 $3,921
O-3 $4,872 $4,017
O-4 $5,655 $4,374
O-5 $6,213 $4,659
O-6 $6,267 $4,863
O-7 $6,321 $4,953

FLORIDA KEYS, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($3,969): ~$430,000 home, PITI ~$3,289/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($4,056): ~$440,000 home, PITI ~$3,365/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($4,350): ~$470,000 home, PITI ~$3,595/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($4,872): ~$530,000 home, PITI ~$4,054/mo
VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL (MHA FL070): E-5 w/dep $2,286, E-6 w/dep $2,496, ~$270,000 buying power

VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL BAH Rates

Table 15. 2026 BAH rates for VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,112 $1,647
E-2 $2,112 $1,647
E-3 $2,112 $1,647
E-4 $2,112 $1,647
E-5 $2,286 $1,833
E-6 $2,496 $1,956
E-7 $2,544 $2,118
E-8 $2,598 $2,334
E-9 $2,688 $2,385
W-1 $2,511 $2,064
W-2 $2,565 $2,331
W-3 $2,637 $2,394
W-4 $2,706 $2,499
W-5 $2,802 $2,553
O-1E $2,550 $2,283
O-2E $2,622 $2,373
O-3E $2,721 $2,484
O-1 $2,319 $1,938
O-2 $2,493 $2,232
O-3 $2,634 $2,415
O-4 $2,826 $2,538
O-5 $2,970 $2,565
O-6 $2,991 $2,613
O-7 $3,012 $2,655

VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,286): ~$250,000 home, PITI ~$1,912/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,496): ~$270,000 home, PITI ~$2,065/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,544): ~$275,000 home, PITI ~$2,103/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,634): ~$285,000 home, PITI ~$2,180/mo
FORT PIERCE, FL (MHA FL423): E-5 w/dep $2,691, E-6 w/dep $2,829, ~$305,000 buying power

FORT PIERCE, FL BAH Rates

Table 16. 2026 BAH rates for FORT PIERCE, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,499 $2,004
E-2 $2,499 $2,004
E-3 $2,499 $2,004
E-4 $2,499 $2,004
E-5 $2,691 $2,193
E-6 $2,829 $2,322
E-7 $2,916 $2,505
E-8 $3,015 $2,724
E-9 $3,171 $2,754
W-1 $2,844 $2,442
W-2 $2,958 $2,721
W-3 $3,081 $2,760
W-4 $3,204 $2,841
W-5 $3,360 $2,940
O-1E $2,934 $2,688
O-2E $3,060 $2,748
O-3E $3,228 $2,817
O-1 $2,715 $2,301
O-2 $2,826 $2,628
O-3 $3,078 $2,772
O-4 $3,408 $2,916
O-5 $3,648 $2,970
O-6 $3,675 $3,060
O-7 $3,702 $3,111

FORT PIERCE, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,691): ~$290,000 home, PITI ~$2,218/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,829): ~$305,000 home, PITI ~$2,333/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,916): ~$315,000 home, PITI ~$2,409/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($3,078): ~$335,000 home, PITI ~$2,562/mo
FORT MYERS BEACH, FL (MHA FL424): E-5 w/dep $2,694, E-6 w/dep $2,919, ~$315,000 buying power

FORT MYERS BEACH, FL BAH Rates

Table 17. 2026 BAH rates for FORT MYERS BEACH, FL
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,553 $2,094
E-2 $2,553 $2,094
E-3 $2,553 $2,094
E-4 $2,553 $2,094
E-5 $2,694 $2,295
E-6 $2,919 $2,421
E-7 $2,994 $2,556
E-8 $3,078 $2,745
E-9 $3,192 $2,802
W-1 $2,937 $2,514
W-2 $3,027 $2,742
W-3 $3,132 $2,814
W-4 $3,213 $2,931
W-5 $3,315 $3,012
O-1E $3,006 $2,691
O-2E $3,114 $2,790
O-3E $3,228 $2,910
O-1 $2,730 $2,406
O-2 $2,916 $2,652
O-3 $3,129 $2,835
O-4 $3,345 $2,991
O-5 $3,504 $3,036
O-6 $3,531 $3,111
O-7 $3,555 $3,165

FORT MYERS BEACH, FL Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,694): ~$290,000 home, PITI ~$2,218/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,919): ~$315,000 home, PITI ~$2,409/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,994): ~$325,000 home, PITI ~$2,486/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($3,129): ~$340,000 home, PITI ~$2,600/mo

VA Loans Near Florida Military Bases

Florida BAH rates for an E-6 with dependents range from $2,061/month (TALLAHASSEE, FL) to $4,056/month (FLORIDA KEYS, FL). That translates to estimated buying power from ~$225,000 to ~$440,000 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 Florida?

Florida has 16 Military Housing Areas. The Secretary of Defense determines the costs of adequate housing in each area. 37 USC 403(b)(2)

Which Florida MHA has the highest BAH?

FLORIDA KEYS, FL has the highest E-6 with-dependents rate at $4,056 per month, translating to roughly $440,000 in buying power.

Which Florida MHA has the lowest BAH?

TALLAHASSEE, FL has the lowest E-6 with-dependents rate at $2,061 per month, translating to roughly $225,000 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, Florida property tax at 0.73 percent (2023 ACS), homeowners insurance at 0.70 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, Florida property tax at 0.73 percent (2023 ACS), homeowners insurance at 0.70 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