How much does the gov pay you to live here?
Tap your state - 2026 BAH (the tax-free housing allowance) by rank and dependents.
California · E-5 · with dependents
$5,127/mo
Up to $5,127/mo tax-free near SAN FRANCISCO - that is $61,524/yr you do not pay tax on. CHINA LAKE pays less, so where you PCS changes the math.
See all 26 Californiabase rates →