2026 Texas BAH Rates: 17 MHAs and VA Buying Power
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2026 Texas BAH Rates

Rates and VA Loan Buying Power

2026 Texas 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

Texas has 17 Military Housing Areas. E-5 with-dependents BAH ranges from $1,470 to $2,469 per month; E-6 with dependents ranges from $1,704 to $2,808. Buying-power assumptions are stated below the table.


Next step:
Check Your VA Loan Eligibility

Table 1. Texas Military Housing Areas at a glance
MHA E-5 w/dep E-6 w/dep E-6 buying power
ABILENE/DYESS AFB, TX $1,554 $2,214 ~$220,000
AUSTIN, TX $2,241 $2,802 ~$280,000
BEAUMONT, TX $1,518 $1,917 ~$190,000
COLLEGE STATION, TX $1,758 $2,391 ~$240,000
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX $1,788 $2,217 ~$220,000
DALLAS, TX $2,469 $2,808 ~$280,000
LAUGHLIN AFB/DEL RIO, TX $1,470 $1,704 ~$170,000
EL PASO, TX $1,809 $2,148 ~$215,000
BROWNSVILLE, TX $1,503 $1,860 ~$185,000
HOUSTON, TX $2,193 $2,517 ~$250,000
LUBBOCK, TX $1,476 $1,812 ~$180,000
GOODFELLOW AFB, TX $1,578 $1,836 ~$185,000
SAN ANTONIO, TX $1,869 $2,094 ~$210,000
FORT HOOD, TX $1,695 $1,920 ~$190,000
WICHITA FLS/SHEPPARD AFB, TX $1,491 $2,112 ~$210,000
FORT WORTH, TX $2,118 $2,424 ~$240,000
WACO, TX $1,755 $2,097 ~$210,000

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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.

680+
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
$0
▸Funding fee (financed)
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▸Estimated monthly payment
—
▸BAH surplus per month
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Want a real quote from a VA specialist?
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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.

Texas BAH Snapshot

  • MHA count: 17 Military Housing Areas
  • E-5 w/dep range: $1,470 to $2,469/mo
  • E-6 w/dep range: $1,704 to $2,808/mo
  • Buying power range: ~$145,000 to ~$280,000

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

  • DALLAS, TX: E-6 w/dep $2,808/mo, ~$280,000 buying power
  • AUSTIN, TX: E-6 w/dep $2,802/mo, ~$280,000 buying power
  • HOUSTON, TX: E-6 w/dep $2,517/mo, ~$250,000 buying power
  • FORT WORTH, TX: E-6 w/dep $2,424/mo, ~$240,000 buying power

Lowest BAH in Texas

  • LAUGHLIN AFB/DEL RIO, TX: E-6 w/dep $1,704/mo, ~$170,000 buying power
  • LUBBOCK, TX: E-6 w/dep $1,812/mo, ~$180,000 buying power
  • GOODFELLOW AFB, TX: E-6 w/dep $1,836/mo, ~$185,000 buying power
  • BROWNSVILLE, TX: E-6 w/dep $1,860/mo, ~$185,000 buying power

The Bottom Line Up Front

Texas BAH rates vary by more than $1,104 per month at E-6 with dependents. The highest rate is $2,808 (DALLAS, TX) and the lowest is $1,704 (LAUGHLIN AFB/DEL RIO, TX). That spread translates to a buying-power difference of roughly $110,000 at current VA loan terms.

How to Use Texas 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 Texas: 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 Texas: 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

Texas Housing Costs and BAH Impact

Texas includes both affordable Military towns and high-cost urban markets. Your BAH rate depends on the MHA assigned to your duty station, and the same rank can produce very different buying power across the state.

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 Texas VA loan guide and the VA Loan Guide for Killeen, TX.

Explore More BAH Insights

Texas 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, Texas property tax at 1.44 percent (2023 ACS), homeowners insurance at 0.81 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).

ABILENE/DYESS AFB, TX (MHA TX270): E-5 w/dep $1,554, E-6 w/dep $2,214, ~$220,000 buying power

ABILENE/DYESS AFB, TX BAH Rates

Table 2. 2026 BAH rates for ABILENE/DYESS AFB, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,458 $1,170
E-2 $1,458 $1,170
E-3 $1,458 $1,170
E-4 $1,458 $1,170
E-5 $1,554 $1,287
E-6 $2,214 $1,662
E-7 $2,238 $1,680
E-8 $2,247 $1,692
E-9 $2,298 $1,884
W-1 $2,235 $1,677
W-2 $2,244 $1,689
W-3 $2,256 $1,908
W-4 $2,325 $2,211
W-5 $2,448 $2,220
O-1E $2,241 $1,686
O-2E $2,250 $1,842
O-3E $2,343 $2,208
O-1 $1,635 $1,362
O-2 $2,205 $1,683
O-3 $2,253 $1,974
O-4 $2,484 $2,214
O-5 $2,676 $2,223
O-6 $2,694 $2,226
O-7 $2,712 $2,241

ABILENE/DYESS AFB, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,554): ~$155,000 home, PITI ~$1,291/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,214): ~$220,000 home, PITI ~$1,833/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,238): ~$225,000 home, PITI ~$1,875/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,253): ~$225,000 home, PITI ~$1,875/mo
AUSTIN, TX (MHA TX272): E-5 w/dep $2,241, E-6 w/dep $2,802, ~$280,000 buying power

AUSTIN, TX BAH Rates

Table 3. 2026 BAH rates for AUSTIN, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,046 $1,536
E-2 $2,046 $1,536
E-3 $2,046 $1,536
E-4 $2,046 $1,536
E-5 $2,241 $1,731
E-6 $2,802 $2,103
E-7 $3,039 $2,280
E-8 $3,294 $2,472
E-9 $3,558 $2,670
W-1 $2,826 $2,121
W-2 $3,141 $2,355
W-3 $3,456 $2,673
W-4 $3,597 $2,856
W-5 $3,771 $3,096
O-1E $3,087 $2,316
O-2E $3,408 $2,556
O-3E $3,624 $2,796
O-1 $2,313 $1,848
O-2 $2,796 $2,283
O-3 $3,447 $2,676
O-4 $3,825 $3,054
O-5 $4,095 $3,198
O-6 $4,131 $3,435
O-7 $4,161 $3,495

AUSTIN, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,241): ~$225,000 home, PITI ~$1,875/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,802): ~$280,000 home, PITI ~$2,333/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($3,039): ~$305,000 home, PITI ~$2,541/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($3,447): ~$345,000 home, PITI ~$2,874/mo
BEAUMONT, TX (MHA TX273): E-5 w/dep $1,518, E-6 w/dep $1,917, ~$190,000 buying power

BEAUMONT, TX BAH Rates

Table 4. 2026 BAH rates for BEAUMONT, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,488 $1,251
E-2 $1,488 $1,251
E-3 $1,488 $1,251
E-4 $1,488 $1,251
E-5 $1,518 $1,377
E-6 $1,917 $1,458
E-7 $1,941 $1,497
E-8 $1,950 $1,602
E-9 $2,028 $1,716
W-1 $1,938 $1,494
W-2 $1,947 $1,599
W-3 $1,959 $1,731
W-4 $2,064 $1,914
W-5 $2,235 $1,923
O-1E $1,944 $1,518
O-2E $1,953 $1,692
O-3E $2,091 $1,911
O-1 $1,572 $1,455
O-2 $1,914 $1,515
O-3 $1,956 $1,770
O-4 $2,289 $1,917
O-5 $2,553 $1,926
O-6 $2,571 $1,929
O-7 $2,589 $1,941

BEAUMONT, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,518): ~$150,000 home, PITI ~$1,250/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($1,917): ~$190,000 home, PITI ~$1,583/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($1,941): ~$195,000 home, PITI ~$1,625/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($1,956): ~$195,000 home, PITI ~$1,625/mo
COLLEGE STATION, TX (MHA TX274): E-5 w/dep $1,758, E-6 w/dep $2,391, ~$240,000 buying power

COLLEGE STATION, TX BAH Rates

Table 5. 2026 BAH rates for COLLEGE STATION, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,662 $1,356
E-2 $1,662 $1,356
E-3 $1,662 $1,356
E-4 $1,662 $1,356
E-5 $1,758 $1,485
E-6 $2,391 $1,794
E-7 $2,499 $1,875
E-8 $2,616 $1,962
E-9 $2,820 $2,115
W-1 $2,412 $1,809
W-2 $2,547 $1,911
W-3 $2,688 $2,118
W-4 $2,871 $2,412
W-5 $3,090 $2,526
O-1E $2,517 $1,887
O-2E $2,667 $2,034
O-3E $2,904 $2,385
O-1 $1,836 $1,563
O-2 $2,385 $1,878
O-3 $2,685 $2,160
O-4 $3,165 $2,499
O-5 $3,513 $2,634
O-6 $3,540 $2,667
O-7 $3,567 $2,712

COLLEGE STATION, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,758): ~$175,000 home, PITI ~$1,458/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,391): ~$240,000 home, PITI ~$2,000/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,499): ~$250,000 home, PITI ~$2,083/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,685): ~$265,000 home, PITI ~$2,208/mo
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX (MHA TX275): E-5 w/dep $1,788, E-6 w/dep $2,217, ~$220,000 buying power

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX BAH Rates

Table 6. 2026 BAH rates for CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,644 $1,278
E-2 $1,644 $1,278
E-3 $1,644 $1,278
E-4 $1,644 $1,278
E-5 $1,788 $1,413
E-6 $2,217 $1,662
E-7 $2,310 $1,734
E-8 $2,412 $1,878
E-9 $2,553 $2,001
W-1 $2,238 $1,680
W-2 $2,352 $1,875
W-3 $2,478 $2,019
W-4 $2,583 $2,235
W-5 $2,718 $2,331
O-1E $2,328 $1,785
O-2E $2,457 $1,974
O-3E $2,604 $2,211
O-1 $1,845 $1,494
O-2 $2,214 $1,743
O-3 $2,475 $2,061
O-4 $2,757 $2,310
O-5 $2,964 $2,364
O-6 $2,988 $2,454
O-7 $3,006 $2,496

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,788): ~$180,000 home, PITI ~$1,500/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,217): ~$220,000 home, PITI ~$1,833/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,310): ~$230,000 home, PITI ~$1,916/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,475): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$2,041/mo
DALLAS, TX (MHA TX277): E-5 w/dep $2,469, E-6 w/dep $2,808, ~$280,000 buying power

DALLAS, TX BAH Rates

Table 7. 2026 BAH rates for DALLAS, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $2,220 $1,665
E-2 $2,220 $1,665
E-3 $2,220 $1,665
E-4 $2,220 $1,665
E-5 $2,469 $1,851
E-6 $2,808 $2,103
E-7 $2,829 $2,229
E-8 $2,838 $2,541
E-9 $2,901 $2,637
W-1 $2,826 $2,142
W-2 $2,835 $2,538
W-3 $2,850 $2,649
W-4 $2,919 $2,805
W-5 $3,018 $2,823
O-1E $2,832 $2,466
O-2E $2,841 $2,613
O-3E $2,934 $2,799
O-1 $2,517 $1,968
O-2 $2,805 $2,388
O-3 $2,847 $2,682
O-4 $3,045 $2,811
O-5 $3,192 $2,826
O-6 $3,216 $2,829
O-7 $3,237 $2,871

DALLAS, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,469): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$2,041/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,808): ~$280,000 home, PITI ~$2,333/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,829): ~$280,000 home, PITI ~$2,333/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,847): ~$285,000 home, PITI ~$2,374/mo
LAUGHLIN AFB/DEL RIO, TX (MHA TX278): E-5 w/dep $1,470, E-6 w/dep $1,704, ~$170,000 buying power

LAUGHLIN AFB/DEL RIO, TX BAH Rates

Table 8. 2026 BAH rates for LAUGHLIN AFB/DEL RIO, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,371 $1,110
E-2 $1,371 $1,110
E-3 $1,371 $1,110
E-4 $1,371 $1,110
E-5 $1,470 $1,209
E-6 $1,704 $1,275
E-7 $1,854 $1,392
E-8 $2,019 $1,521
E-9 $2,238 $1,680
W-1 $1,722 $1,350
W-2 $1,923 $1,518
W-3 $2,127 $1,683
W-4 $2,280 $1,734
W-5 $2,466 $1,899
O-1E $1,884 $1,467
O-2E $2,097 $1,572
O-3E $2,307 $1,731
O-1 $1,506 $1,269
O-2 $1,701 $1,440
O-3 $2,121 $1,686
O-4 $2,526 $1,896
O-5 $2,820 $2,115
O-6 $2,841 $2,130
O-7 $2,859 $2,145

LAUGHLIN AFB/DEL RIO, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,470): ~$145,000 home, PITI ~$1,208/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($1,704): ~$170,000 home, PITI ~$1,416/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($1,854): ~$185,000 home, PITI ~$1,541/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,121): ~$210,000 home, PITI ~$1,750/mo
EL PASO, TX (MHA TX279): E-5 w/dep $1,809, E-6 w/dep $2,148, ~$215,000 buying power

EL PASO, TX BAH Rates

Table 9. 2026 BAH rates for EL PASO, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,665 $1,302
E-2 $1,665 $1,302
E-3 $1,665 $1,302
E-4 $1,665 $1,302
E-5 $1,809 $1,437
E-6 $2,148 $1,611
E-7 $2,172 $1,668
E-8 $2,187 $1,881
E-9 $2,241 $1,977
W-1 $2,169 $1,626
W-2 $2,178 $1,878
W-3 $2,205 $1,992
W-4 $2,256 $2,148
W-5 $2,334 $2,169
O-1E $2,175 $1,806
O-2E $2,196 $1,956
O-3E $2,268 $2,142
O-1 $1,857 $1,518
O-2 $2,145 $1,764
O-3 $2,202 $2,022
O-4 $2,352 $2,157
O-5 $2,466 $2,172
O-6 $2,484 $2,178
O-7 $2,496 $2,214

EL PASO, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,809): ~$180,000 home, PITI ~$1,500/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,148): ~$215,000 home, PITI ~$1,791/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,172): ~$215,000 home, PITI ~$1,791/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,202): ~$220,000 home, PITI ~$1,833/mo
BROWNSVILLE, TX (MHA TX281): E-5 w/dep $1,503, E-6 w/dep $1,860, ~$185,000 buying power

BROWNSVILLE, TX BAH Rates

Table 10. 2026 BAH rates for BROWNSVILLE, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,413 $1,125
E-2 $1,413 $1,125
E-3 $1,413 $1,125
E-4 $1,413 $1,125
E-5 $1,503 $1,248
E-6 $1,860 $1,392
E-7 $1,971 $1,479
E-8 $2,094 $1,578
E-9 $2,259 $1,695
W-1 $1,878 $1,410
W-2 $2,022 $1,575
W-3 $2,172 $1,698
W-4 $2,292 $1,881
W-5 $2,442 $1,998
O-1E $1,992 $1,500
O-2E $2,148 $1,656
O-3E $2,316 $1,851
O-1 $1,551 $1,323
O-2 $1,857 $1,482
O-3 $2,169 $1,728
O-4 $2,490 $1,974
O-5 $2,721 $2,040
O-6 $2,742 $2,151
O-7 $2,757 $2,187

BROWNSVILLE, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,503): ~$150,000 home, PITI ~$1,250/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($1,860): ~$185,000 home, PITI ~$1,541/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($1,971): ~$195,000 home, PITI ~$1,625/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,169): ~$215,000 home, PITI ~$1,791/mo
HOUSTON, TX (MHA TX282): E-5 w/dep $2,193, E-6 w/dep $2,517, ~$250,000 buying power

HOUSTON, TX BAH Rates

Table 11. 2026 BAH rates for HOUSTON, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,974 $1,524
E-2 $1,974 $1,524
E-3 $1,974 $1,524
E-4 $1,974 $1,524
E-5 $2,193 $1,665
E-6 $2,517 $1,887
E-7 $2,583 $1,980
E-8 $2,655 $2,265
E-9 $2,796 $2,352
W-1 $2,535 $1,905
W-2 $2,610 $2,262
W-3 $2,703 $2,367
W-4 $2,829 $2,526
W-5 $2,988 $2,598
O-1E $2,592 $2,190
O-2E $2,688 $2,331
O-3E $2,856 $2,508
O-1 $2,241 $1,749
O-2 $2,514 $2,124
O-3 $2,700 $2,397
O-4 $3,039 $2,580
O-5 $3,288 $2,616
O-6 $3,312 $2,679
O-7 $3,336 $2,724

HOUSTON, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,193): ~$220,000 home, PITI ~$1,833/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,517): ~$250,000 home, PITI ~$2,083/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,583): ~$255,000 home, PITI ~$2,125/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,700): ~$270,000 home, PITI ~$2,250/mo
LUBBOCK, TX (MHA TX283): E-5 w/dep $1,476, E-6 w/dep $1,812, ~$180,000 buying power

LUBBOCK, TX BAH Rates

Table 12. 2026 BAH rates for LUBBOCK, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,416 $1,146
E-2 $1,416 $1,146
E-3 $1,416 $1,146
E-4 $1,416 $1,146
E-5 $1,476 $1,272
E-6 $1,812 $1,356
E-7 $1,875 $1,413
E-8 $1,941 $1,548
E-9 $2,082 $1,641
W-1 $1,830 $1,407
W-2 $1,902 $1,545
W-3 $1,986 $1,656
W-4 $2,121 $1,821
W-5 $2,289 $1,887
O-1E $1,884 $1,473
O-2E $1,971 $1,620
O-3E $2,145 $1,803
O-1 $1,524 $1,350
O-2 $1,809 $1,461
O-3 $1,983 $1,689
O-4 $2,343 $1,869
O-5 $2,604 $1,953
O-6 $2,622 $1,968
O-7 $2,637 $1,995

LUBBOCK, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,476): ~$145,000 home, PITI ~$1,208/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($1,812): ~$180,000 home, PITI ~$1,500/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($1,875): ~$185,000 home, PITI ~$1,541/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($1,983): ~$200,000 home, PITI ~$1,666/mo
GOODFELLOW AFB, TX (MHA TX284): E-5 w/dep $1,578, E-6 w/dep $1,836, ~$185,000 buying power

GOODFELLOW AFB, TX BAH Rates

Table 13. 2026 BAH rates for GOODFELLOW AFB, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,455 $1,092
E-2 $1,455 $1,092
E-3 $1,455 $1,092
E-4 $1,455 $1,092
E-5 $1,578 $1,230
E-6 $1,836 $1,374
E-7 $1,965 $1,473
E-8 $2,109 $1,635
E-9 $2,235 $1,704
W-1 $1,854 $1,425
W-2 $2,025 $1,632
W-3 $2,199 $1,716
W-4 $2,247 $1,860
W-5 $2,310 $1,998
O-1E $1,989 $1,575
O-2E $2,172 $1,689
O-3E $2,256 $1,827
O-1 $1,617 $1,332
O-2 $1,833 $1,542
O-3 $2,193 $1,740
O-4 $2,322 $1,968
O-5 $2,415 $2,046
O-6 $2,433 $2,178
O-7 $2,448 $2,214

GOODFELLOW AFB, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,578): ~$155,000 home, PITI ~$1,291/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($1,836): ~$185,000 home, PITI ~$1,541/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($1,965): ~$195,000 home, PITI ~$1,625/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,193): ~$220,000 home, PITI ~$1,833/mo
SAN ANTONIO, TX (MHA TX285): E-5 w/dep $1,869, E-6 w/dep $2,094, ~$210,000 buying power

SAN ANTONIO, TX BAH Rates

Table 14. 2026 BAH rates for SAN ANTONIO, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,728 $1,359
E-2 $1,728 $1,359
E-3 $1,728 $1,359
E-4 $1,728 $1,359
E-5 $1,869 $1,500
E-6 $2,094 $1,596
E-7 $2,112 $1,731
E-8 $2,121 $1,920
E-9 $2,157 $1,977
W-1 $2,109 $1,692
W-2 $2,118 $1,917
W-3 $2,130 $1,986
W-4 $2,178 $2,085
W-5 $2,280 $2,097
O-1E $2,115 $1,866
O-2E $2,124 $1,965
O-3E $2,196 $2,082
O-1 $1,905 $1,584
O-2 $2,091 $1,827
O-3 $2,127 $2,007
O-4 $2,307 $2,088
O-5 $2,457 $2,100
O-6 $2,475 $2,103
O-7 $2,490 $2,112

SAN ANTONIO, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,869): ~$185,000 home, PITI ~$1,541/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,094): ~$210,000 home, PITI ~$1,750/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,112): ~$210,000 home, PITI ~$1,750/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,127): ~$210,000 home, PITI ~$1,750/mo
FORT HOOD, TX (MHA TX286): E-5 w/dep $1,695, E-6 w/dep $1,920, ~$190,000 buying power

FORT HOOD, TX BAH Rates

Table 15. 2026 BAH rates for FORT HOOD, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,662 $1,374
E-2 $1,662 $1,374
E-3 $1,662 $1,374
E-4 $1,662 $1,374
E-5 $1,695 $1,530
E-6 $1,920 $1,626
E-7 $2,070 $1,668
E-8 $2,238 $1,746
E-9 $2,409 $1,806
W-1 $1,938 $1,665
W-2 $2,139 $1,743
W-3 $2,346 $1,812
W-4 $2,433 $1,950
W-5 $2,544 $2,109
O-1E $2,100 $1,692
O-2E $2,313 $1,788
O-3E $2,451 $1,908
O-1 $1,731 $1,623
O-2 $1,917 $1,689
O-3 $2,340 $1,833
O-4 $2,577 $2,076
O-5 $2,748 $2,169
O-6 $2,769 $2,325
O-7 $2,787 $2,361

FORT HOOD, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,695): ~$170,000 home, PITI ~$1,416/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($1,920): ~$190,000 home, PITI ~$1,583/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,070): ~$205,000 home, PITI ~$1,708/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,340): ~$235,000 home, PITI ~$1,958/mo
WICHITA FLS/SHEPPARD AFB, TX (MHA TX288): E-5 w/dep $1,491, E-6 w/dep $2,112, ~$210,000 buying power

WICHITA FLS/SHEPPARD AFB, TX BAH Rates

Table 16. 2026 BAH rates for WICHITA FLS/SHEPPARD AFB, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,392 $1,044
E-2 $1,392 $1,044
E-3 $1,392 $1,044
E-4 $1,392 $1,044
E-5 $1,491 $1,182
E-6 $2,112 $1,584
E-7 $2,190 $1,644
E-8 $2,271 $1,704
E-9 $2,427 $1,821
W-1 $2,133 $1,602
W-2 $2,223 $1,668
W-3 $2,328 $1,827
W-4 $2,463 $2,127
W-5 $2,634 $2,208
O-1E $2,202 $1,653
O-2E $2,310 $1,764
O-3E $2,490 $2,106
O-1 $1,572 $1,290
O-2 $2,106 $1,647
O-3 $2,325 $1,887
O-4 $2,691 $2,187
O-5 $2,955 $2,229
O-6 $2,979 $2,304
O-7 $2,997 $2,343

WICHITA FLS/SHEPPARD AFB, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,491): ~$150,000 home, PITI ~$1,250/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,112): ~$210,000 home, PITI ~$1,750/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,190): ~$220,000 home, PITI ~$1,833/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,325): ~$230,000 home, PITI ~$1,916/mo
FORT WORTH, TX (MHA TX356): E-5 w/dep $2,118, E-6 w/dep $2,424, ~$240,000 buying power

FORT WORTH, TX BAH Rates

Table 17. 2026 BAH rates for FORT WORTH, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,938 $1,494
E-2 $1,938 $1,494
E-3 $1,938 $1,494
E-4 $1,938 $1,494
E-5 $2,118 $1,656
E-6 $2,424 $1,815
E-7 $2,445 $1,941
E-8 $2,454 $2,184
E-9 $2,490 $2,268
W-1 $2,442 $1,884
W-2 $2,451 $2,181
W-3 $2,463 $2,280
W-4 $2,511 $2,418
W-5 $2,613 $2,427
O-1E $2,448 $2,115
O-2E $2,457 $2,250
O-3E $2,526 $2,415
O-1 $2,163 $1,752
O-2 $2,421 $2,061
O-3 $2,460 $2,310
O-4 $2,640 $2,421
O-5 $2,793 $2,430
O-6 $2,814 $2,433
O-7 $2,832 $2,451

FORT WORTH, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($2,118): ~$210,000 home, PITI ~$1,750/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,424): ~$240,000 home, PITI ~$2,000/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,445): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$2,041/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,460): ~$245,000 home, PITI ~$2,041/mo
WACO, TX (MHA TX415): E-5 w/dep $1,755, E-6 w/dep $2,097, ~$210,000 buying power

WACO, TX BAH Rates

Table 18. 2026 BAH rates for WACO, TX
Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
E-1 $1,617 $1,404
E-2 $1,617 $1,404
E-3 $1,617 $1,404
E-4 $1,617 $1,404
E-5 $1,755 $1,440
E-6 $2,097 $1,572
E-7 $2,199 $1,650
E-8 $2,310 $1,830
E-9 $2,496 $1,926
W-1 $2,118 $1,590
W-2 $2,244 $1,827
W-3 $2,382 $1,938
W-4 $2,538 $2,118
W-5 $2,730 $2,223
O-1E $2,217 $1,752
O-2E $2,361 $1,902
O-3E $2,568 $2,091
O-1 $1,803 $1,473
O-2 $2,094 $1,713
O-3 $2,379 $1,971
O-4 $2,793 $2,199
O-5 $3,093 $2,319
O-6 $3,117 $2,361
O-7 $3,138 $2,400

WACO, TX Buying Power

  • E-5 w/dep ($1,755): ~$175,000 home, PITI ~$1,458/mo
  • E-6 w/dep ($2,097): ~$210,000 home, PITI ~$1,750/mo
  • E-7 w/dep ($2,199): ~$220,000 home, PITI ~$1,833/mo
  • O-3 w/dep ($2,379): ~$235,000 home, PITI ~$1,958/mo

VA Loans Near Texas Military Bases

Texas BAH rates for an E-6 with dependents range from $1,704/month (LAUGHLIN AFB/DEL RIO, TX) to $2,808/month (DALLAS, TX). That translates to estimated buying power from ~$170,000 to ~$280,000 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 Texas?

Texas has 17 Military Housing Areas. The Secretary of Defense determines the costs of adequate housing in each area. 37 USC 403(b)(2)

Which Texas MHA has the highest BAH?

DALLAS, TX has the highest E-6 with-dependents rate at $2,808 per month, translating to roughly $280,000 in buying power.

Which Texas MHA has the lowest BAH?

LAUGHLIN AFB/DEL RIO, TX has the lowest E-6 with-dependents rate at $1,704 per month, translating to roughly $170,000 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, Texas property tax at 1.44 percent (2023 ACS), homeowners insurance at 0.81 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, Texas property tax at 1.44 percent (2023 ACS), homeowners insurance at 0.81 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