Don’t Forget Utility Costs!

Written by AHRN Team Updated on March 10, 2020

Utilities costs can vary significantly across the US, depending upon both the location and time of year.  Remember, a portion of your monthly BAH is intended to cover the cost of utilities (Heat, Electricity, Water) for your home.  In 2018, the percentage of monthly BAH intended to cover utilities ranges from a low of 6% in San Francisco, CA (CA019) to a high of 38% in Johnstown, PA.  It’s important that you take the cost of utilities into consideration when you are searching for a home that fits your monthly BAH budget.  Below are couple of examples of BAH rent and utility breakouts.

Examples: 

O1 w/Dependents in San Francisco, CA (CA019)

  • Total Monthly BAH amount:  $4359
  • Rent Amount: $4097
  • Utilities Amount: $262

O1 w/Dependents in Johnstown, PA (PA383)

  • Total Monthly BAH amount:  $852
  • Rent Amount: $528
  • Utilities Amount: $324

Within AHRN, the Rent and Utility breakouts are automatically calculated for you. You can view these breakouts on both your Homepage and the Listing Summary page.  Remember, the monthly utility amount is an average and depending upon the local climate the actual monthly utility costs can vary significantly from month to month.

Homepage:  The BAH Information box displays your Estimated BAH and the Rent/Utility breakout.  This information is based on the Grade, Dependent Status, and selected Gaining Installation in your Account Profile.

Listing Summary: In the Listing Summary view click on the BAH Calculator to display the BAH Rent compared to the Listing Rent.  Utilities included in the rent amount (as noted by the listing owner) are also listed.

 

 

Article written by

AHRN Team

A part of the military's trusted source for off-base housing, our editorial team is here to share tips and tricks to moving, PCS, home loans, and renting for military families.

Your Trusted Source for

Military Housing and Rentals