Dual Military Housing Guide for Fort Knox

Dual military couples face unique housing challenges and opportunities. If both spouses are stationed at Fort Knox — or if one is at Knox while the other is at a different installation — understanding your BAH situation and housing options is essential for making smart financial decisions.

BAH for Dual Military Couples

When both spouses are active duty:

• With dependents (children): One spouse receives BAH with dependents rate; the other receives BAH without dependents rate
• Without dependents: Both receive BAH at the without dependents rate for their respective pay grades
• Combined BAH: The total housing budget for a dual military couple is often substantial — potentially $2,500-$4,000+/month depending on ranks

Check current Fort Knox BAH rates for specific figures by rank.

Housing Options

On-Post (Knox Hills)

Knox Hills housing is based on rank and family size. One spouse's BAH is forfeited for on-post housing; the other spouse keeps their BAH as pocket income. This can be a strategic financial play — especially if the higher-ranking spouse's BAH covers on-post housing while the lower-ranking spouse's BAH goes straight to savings or investments.

Off-Post Buying

With combined BAH, dual military couples have significant purchasing power in the Elizabethtown market. A combined budget of $3,000+/month can support a home in any E-town neighborhood, including premium options like Thousand Oaks or Foxwood. This is an excellent opportunity to build equity in a quality property.

Off-Post Renting

Some dual military couples choose to rent, keeping maximum flexibility for potential separate assignments. In E-town, renting on combined BAH leaves substantial pocket money — $1,000+/month in many cases — that can go toward savings, investments, or debt payoff.

Financial Strategy

• Buy and build equity: Combined BAH makes homeownership easy and profitable in E-town
• Save aggressively: Use the BAH surplus to fund TSP, emergency fund, or investment accounts
• Plan for separation: If a future PCS sends one spouse elsewhere, have a plan for the home (rent it, sell it, or one spouse stays)