Can I Pick My Own on Base Military Housing?

Military service is a patriotic sacrifice many make for the country.

Military service requires lots of hard work, dedication and sacrifice, but it is not without some benefits. Military members and their families receive base housing privileges. Even if they don't live on base, military members and dependents can essentially live rent-free with the service member's BAH, or basic allowance for housing.

Considerations

Most military bases have housing available on a limited first-come, first-served basis. Due to this, it's not uncommon for bases to have waiting lists for housing, especially for some of the more desirable options. If you're simply in need of a home, it's in your best interest to take what's available when it comes up.

Types

Military housing depends on the service member's ranks.

Housing options vary from base to base, but the types generally available are off-base housing, on-base housing and military dorm assignments. Off-base housing is usually paid for through the service member's basic allowance for housing. The amount provided is based on the cost of living in the area and the service member's military rank and marital status.

Features

Military base housing is considered one of the best options for military personnel. Service members live within minutes of their work and their families are protected by base security at the base's entrance. Based on family size and personnel rank, the available on-base military housing varies from member to member.

Warning

Military personnel are provided base housing as a privilege. Service members and their dependents must sign agreements to follow base housing rules, which if broken can result in loss of base housing privileges.

References

• BAH Frequently Asked Questions
• USMC Family Housing Regulations
• Base Housing Fact Sheet: Cannon AFB
• Misawa Housing