Did you just receive your PCS orders and are wondering whether to live on or off base? It’s a common question, and both options come with distinct pros and cons depending on your lifestyle, family needs, and financial goals.

Living on base offers convenience: you won’t have to search for housing, safety is almost a guarantee, there’s no daily commute, and your rent is usually fully covered by your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH).

However, there are some trade-offs. On-base housing can limit your choices in terms of layout, size, and style. Families with children may find fewer schooling options, and since your BAH goes directly to base housing, there’s no opportunity to save or keep any portion of it.

Choosing to live off base opens up more flexibility. You’ll receive your BAH as part of your paycheck each month, which means if you find a home with rent or mortgage costs below your allowance, you can likely keep the difference. In 2025, BAH rates increased by 5.4%, but your exact monthly amount will still depend on your rank, dependency status, and the cost of living in your new location.

So, if you’re leaning toward living off base, here are some key advantages to consider and why it might be a smart move in the long run for you and your family. 

Get Close Access to Base Resources Without Sacrificing Freedom

Do you want a home with a patio? What about a pool or energy-efficient appliances? The more specific your wish list is, the harder it will be to find a home that checks off all your boxes on base. Settling for a home that doesn’t meet your needs can lead to disappointment and frustration later on. Depending on where you live, base housing can be limited and may even have a wait list. 

Including off-base options in your home search offers more flexibility and a greater chance of finding the right fit. For military families with a civilian spouse, choosing a home that supports their lifestyle can ease the overall transition. 

Off-base housing also provides added privacy and can create a stronger sense of work-life balance. While living among fellow service members fosters community, it can sometimes make it harder to fully disconnect from work, especially when you’re looking to unwind and focus on family life.

But what about the on-base amenities? Living off base doesn’t mean you lose access to these. If you buy a home near a military base, then you can have the best of both worlds: the home of your dreams and on-base resources. On-base facilities like childcare, medical clinics, and shopping centers can all be reached within a short distance, allowing you to still partake in community activities without sacrificing the flexibility and independence that come with living off base. 

Make the Most of Your BAH

While it might seem more expensive on paper, living off base can save you money, especially if you find a home with costs below your BAH. 

If you live on base, your housing costs are deducted directly from your paycheck, leaving you with nothing left over. Off base, your full BAH is included in your paycheck, giving you the flexibility to manage those funds. If your rent or mortgage is less than your BAH, you can use the extra money to cover utilities, internet, or even add to your savings.

That’s why it’s important to work with a qualified real estate agent. They can help you find a home that fits your lifestyle and stays within your BAH, so you can maximize your benefits and potentially build long-term financial stability.

Strong Resale and Rental Potential

With military families constantly relocating, a home near a base can easily be turned into a rental property when it’s time for your next move. This can become a steady stream of passive income for you, turning your home into not just a place to live, but a long-term investment. 

Alternatively, with consistent demand in military communities, you can feel confident that if you decide to sell your home, you’re more likely to turn a profit. Home prices tend to rise where demand is steady, making property near a military base a relatively safe investment. The reliable stream of jobs provided by the base also helps keep upward pressure on both home prices and rental rates in the surrounding area, further boosting your home’s potential resale value.

Integrate with the Local Community

While many enjoy the sense of community that comes with living among fellow service members, others may find it beneficial to keep some separation between work life and home life. Choosing to live off base, but still nearby, can offer the best of both. 

Living near a military base gives you the opportunity to stay connected to the military community while also becoming part of the broader local neighborhood. For households with a civilian spouse, this can be especially meaningful, offering a more diverse social network and helping them feel more rooted in the area.

Off-base living can also expand your options when it comes to schools. Children may benefit from a more varied peer group, giving them exposure to different backgrounds and perspectives.

Ultimately, choosing a home near a military base doesn’t mean giving up your connection to the military community; it means adding new layers of connection and experience. It’s possible to maintain strong ties with fellow service members while also building relationships in the wider community.

Off Base But Still Connected

Living near a military base could be the ideal solution for your family. You’ll still have access to on-base amenities, enjoy a short commute, and gain more flexibility in choosing the right home and lifestyle for your household. It also allows you to build equity and invest in your financial future. With the right location, you don’t have to choose between comfort and practicality—you can have both.