Military housing tends to be provided for all service members. Regardless of whether you live on or off base, the government will cover your living costs. The type of housing can vary depending on your rank, location, and family situation. However, with the abundance of housing options, most service members will have no problem finding housing that fits their needs.
Typically, all new recruits who are starting their military careers will live in military housing on base, but as they move up in rank, they will have more options and can find housing off base. Single service members will most likely live in complexes similar to college dormitories, which could be a single or shared room. Another option is that you will have only a shared living area, but have your own separate rooms. As for the more senior service members, they will have better options and can choose from various apartments and even single-family homes.
Those who qualify to live off base will be given a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), wherein they receive a monthly sum of money that factors in the area’s cost of living, the service member’s pay grade, and several dependents. This means that if you live in an expensive urban area, you will be given more BAH than one living in a rural area because the cost of living is higher. In the same way, if you have more children, you may also receive higher BAH. It really depends on the needs of the family and the pay grade.
Living In Military Housing
Active duty members join the military full-time, but it is worth noting that during basic training, the men and women will live in separate quarters known as barracks. These basically consist of shared bunks and bathroom facilities, which is why service members must keep their personal items to a minimum. Only after they complete the basic training can they feel more settled.
Military bases are actually quite large, and it can feel like its own town. You will find post offices, medical and dental clinics, and even shopping centers. Of course, this depends on which location you are assigned. The base amenities will be open to all resident service members and possibly to guests on a case-by-case basis. The base is designed to make you feel like you are in a community where you will bond quickly with your teammates. You will be able to immerse yourself in your new military family, who understands the sacrifices you will make. In addition, with all the conveniences afforded in the base (e.g., gym, grocery, commissary, etc.), you should be able to find everything that you need.
Evidently, there are many perks to living in military housing. Get PCS help to determine what benefits you are entitled to pick the best accommodation.
