Current 2023 JB Lewis-McChord (JBLM) BAH Rates
It’s hard to buy a home if you don’t know your BAH. These are the most up-to-date BAH rates for JBLM in 2023. There was a 17.7% increase in BAH from 2022, so if you’re PCSing here, you’ll get the highest BAH that we’ve ever seen here.
Our BAH Chart is below, but if you prefer a calculator, click here.
JBLM BAH Rate List
2023 Enlisted Rates
| With Dependents | Without Dependents | |
|---|---|---|
| E1 | $2145.00 | $1644.00 |
| E2 | $2145.00 | $1644.00 |
| E3 | $2145.00 | $1644.00 |
| E4 | $2145.00 | $1644.00 |
| E5 | $2298.00 | $1863.00 |
| E6 | $2691.00 | $2019.00 |
| E7 | $2778.00 | $2145.00 |
| E8 | $2868.00 | $2379.00 |
| E9 | $2976.00 | $2493.00 |
2023 Warrant Officer Rates
| With Dependents | Without Dependents | |
|---|---|---|
| W1 | $2712.00 | $2103.00 |
| W2 | $2817.00 | $2376.00 |
| W3 | $2931.00 | $2505.00 |
| W4 | $2997.00 | $2709.00 |
| W5 | $3075.00 | $2796.00 |
2023 Officer Rates
| With Dependents | Without Dependents | |
|---|---|---|
| O1E | $2790.00 | $2292.00 |
| O2E | $2910.00 | $2469.00 |
| O3E | $3006.00 | $2685.00 |
| O1 | $2352.00 | $1989.00 |
| O2 | $2688.00 | $2247.00 |
| O3 | $2928.00 | $2547.00 |
| O4 | $3099.00 | $2775.00 |
| O5 | $3222.00 | $2829.00 |
| O6 | $3249.00 | $2913.00 |
| O7 | $3276.00 | $3276.00 |
Understanding BAH and Its Impact on Military Housing at JBLM
Navigating the ins and outs of military life can be a challenging feat, especially when it comes to understanding the financial aspects, such as the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). This allowance plays a crucial role in the lives of service members, impacting housing options and quality of life, particularly for those on Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington State.
What is BAH?
The Basic Allowance for Housing is a U.S. based allowance prescribed by geographic duty location, pay grade, and dependency status. It provides uniformed service members equitable housing compensation based on housing costs in local civilian housing markets. In essence, it’s a lifeline for service members, providing them with financial aid to secure housing.
The Purpose of BAH
BAH is designed to cover housing costs for service members. This includes expenses related to rent or mortgage payments, utilities, and renter’s insurance. The goal is to alleviate the financial burden of housing costs, allowing service members to focus on their duties rather than worry about housing expenses.
BAH and Housing near JBLM
Joint Base Lewis-McChord is a popular location for military families. The base offers a wealth of amenities, facilities, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Given its appeal, the local housing market can be competitive, making BAH a vital factor in securing comfortable accommodation.
Decoding BAH Rates at JBLM
BAH rates are reviewed and adjusted annually to reflect the current housing market. For instance, in 2023, an E1-E4 service member with dependents can receive a monthly BAH of $2145. While this might seem substantial at first glance, it aligns with the cost of living and housing expenses in the JBLM region.
How BAH Influences Housing Choices
The amount of BAH service members receives can greatly influence housing options. Those of higher ranks and those with dependents tend to receive a higher BAH to accommodate the need for larger living spaces. Being aware of this fact can help service members make informed decisions when considering housing options, whether they are contemplating living on or off base.
It also enables us to qualify you for a higher VA loan if you’re looking to live off base.
Navigating the Housing Market with BAH
While understanding BAH and how it affects housing can seem overwhelming, especially for those new to military life or PCSing to JBLM, resources are available to help.
We’ve been helping military families PCS to JBLM since 2001 and can help you too.
Real 5 Star Reviews
We make it happen, and our reputation proves it. Across Facebook, Google, Redfin, and Zillow, we have a combined 4.99-star rating out of 5 from verified home buyers as of 2023. Being in the business since 2001, you can’t buy the reputation as one of the best mortgage lenders in town like us. You’re in good hands with West Coast Veterans.
Our Mortgage Programs
- VA Purchase Loans
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Your Mortgage Lender
Tim Barlow
Founder and President at West Coast Veterans
Hi, I’m Tim Barlow, the Founder and President of West Coast Veterans, a licensed mortgage brokerage specializing in veteran-focused lending. We’ve been serving the needs of active- duty and veteran homeowners for decades, helping them to maximize their VA loan benefits.
Whether you’re a first-time home buyer using your VA loan eligibility or this is your second time making use of your VA loan benefits, we can help you sort out all the complexities, allowing you to be stress-free during the loan process.
- (360) 250-3400
- Tim@timloans.com
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