U.S. Army · Major Installation
Fort Hood — Killeen, TX, United States
📍 Killeen, TX, United States
⭐ 4.1/5 community rating · Rated by Soldiers and families
About Fort Hood
Fort Hood — now designated Fort Cavazos — is the largest active-duty armored installation in the world, home to the III Armored Corps and the 1st Cavalry Division. Located near Killeen, Texas, it hosts 33,638 active-duty military and is a central hub for U.S. Army heavy brigade combat team training and operations. Texas has no state income tax, and Killeen's cost of living index of 92.5 — below the national average — makes Fort Cavazos one of the most financially favorable assignments in the Army. BAH rates provide strong purchasing power in the local rental market, and housing availability is rated as moderate with a wide variety of options across Killeen, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, and Nolanville. Service members PCSing to Fort Cavazos will find that their housing dollar goes significantly further here than at coastal or urban installations. The Killeen-Temple-Fort Hood metro area has evolved considerably in recent years with new retail, dining, and entertainment options, though soldiers seeking metropolitan amenities typically drive to Austin (65 miles) or Waco (85 miles). The climate features hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F and mild winters with only occasional freezing temperatures. Spring and fall are pleasant, and the area experiences periodic severe weather including thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes. The nearby Stillhouse Hollow Lake and Belton Lake offer excellent fishing, boating, and camping. Employment in the Killeen area is predominantly defense-related, with Soldiers, DA civilians, and contractors forming the backbone of the local economy. Military spouse employment has grown with the expansion of remote work opportunities and Austin's tech industry within commuting distance for many. Fort Cavazos offers extensive on-post recreational facilities, schools, and support services. The installation's sheer size means self-contained community amenities are abundant. BaseNeed connects Fort Cavazos families with current BAH-optimized housing listings, local employer listings, and the central Texas military community.
Fort Hood at a Glance
Location: Killeen, TX 76544, United States.
Branch & command: U.S. Army, FORSCOM.
Active-duty military: 33,638 (source undated, retrieved August 2026).
On-base housing: Moderate, typical wait 2-4 months.
Cost-of-living index: 92.50 (100 = U.S. average).
Climate: Hot summers, mild winters.
Nearby cities: Austin, Waco, Temple.
Base operator: (254) 286-5139.
2026 BAH Rates for Fort Hood
The figures below are the 2026 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for the military housing area covering Fort Hood, published by the DoD (DTMO) and effective 1 January 2026. Amounts are monthly and tax-free, shown with and without dependents.
| Pay grade | With dependents | Without dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 to E-4 | $1,662 | $1,374 |
| E-5 | $1,695 | $1,530 |
| E-6 | $1,920 | $1,626 |
| E-7 | $2,070 | $1,668 |
| E-8 | $2,238 | $1,746 |
| E-9 | $2,409 | $1,806 |
| W-1 | $1,938 | $1,665 |
| W-2 | $2,139 | $1,743 |
| W-3 | $2,346 | $1,812 |
| W-4 | $2,433 | $1,950 |
| W-5 | $2,544 | $2,109 |
| O-1 | $1,731 | $1,623 |
| O-2 | $1,917 | $1,689 |
| O-3 | $2,340 | $1,833 |
| O-4 | $2,577 | $2,076 |
| O-5 | $2,748 | $2,169 |
| O-6 | $2,769 | $2,325 |
| O-7 | $2,787 | $2,361 |
Confirm your exact entitlement with the official DTMO BAH calculator before signing a lease.
Quick Facts about Fort Hood
- Branch & location
- U.S. Army · Killeen, TX, United States
- 2026 BAH (E-5)
- $1,695/mo with deps · $1,530 without
- Cost of living
- Index 92.5 — below average
- Climate
- Hot summers, mild winters
- Off-base housing
- moderate
- Nearest VA facility
- Pre-Discharge Site at Fort Cavazos (~0 mi)
PCS to Fort Hood — Complete 2026 Guide
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to Fort Hood requires planning that most Soldiers start 90–120 days before their report date. The key areas to tackle first are housing (on-base vs. off-base), BAH calculation, school enrollment for children, and spouse employment. This guide walks you through each step.
Step 1: Understand Your Orders and Timeline
Your PCS orders to Fort Hood will specify your Report No Later Than (RNLTD) date — your primary planning anchor. From this date work backwards: HHG shipment scheduling (DPS at move.mil) should happen at least 30–45 days out; housing research should begin immediately. Contact your losing unit S1 or PSD to initiate your out-processing checklist as soon as orders are in hand. Request a sponsor from your gaining unit — most U.S. Army units assign one who can answer installation-specific questions and help your family settle in before you arrive.
Step 2: Calculate Your 2026 BAH and Set a Housing Budget
Your 2026 BAH for Killeen, TX is your housing budget ceiling. E-5 with dependents: $1,695/month. E-5 without dependents: $1,530/month. E-7 with dependents: $2,070/month. O-3 with dependents: $2,340/month. BAH is fully tax-free and determined by your pay grade and dependency status. In this below average area, Killeen, many service members find their BAH exceeds actual rent — meaning you can save the difference tax-free each month. Use the BaseNeed BAH Calculator to compare rates across all pay grades.
Step 3: On-Base vs. Off-Base Housing Decision
Start your housing search 60-90 days before your report date. The off-base rental market is active, and the best properties at BAH rates are claimed quickly. Current on-base wait: approximately 2-4 months. Apply for on-base housing immediately after receiving orders — even if you lean toward off-base, maintaining a waitlist position keeps all options open. Browse verified housing listings near Fort Hood on BaseNeed, filtered to your BAH rate and preferred communities.
Step 4: Schools, Childcare, and Family Resources
Contact the School Liaison Officer (SLO) at Fort Hood early — they specialize in school enrollment, record transfers, and finding the right educational fit for military-connected students at every grade level. DoDEA schools (if available on-base) offer curriculum continuity across PCS moves. For childcare, the Child Development Center (CDC) on base provides subsidized, high-quality care — waitlists can be 6–12 months, so register immediately after receiving orders. The Family Support Center offers free spouse employment assistance, financial counseling, and PCS transition workshops for the whole family.
Step 5: Schedule Your HHG Shipment and Travel
Book your Household Goods (HHG) shipment through DPS (move.mil) as early as possible — peak PCS season (May–August) fills carrier capacity quickly. Options include a full government move, a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), or a combination. Pack a "first-night box" with essentials — documents, medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes per family member — separately from your main shipment. Photograph all valuables before the move and file claims promptly for any damage discovered at delivery. Carriers are required to honor claims within the timeframe specified in your Bill of Lading.
Step 6: In-Process at Fort Hood
Upon arrival, complete garrison in-processing at the welcome center. Required stops typically include finance (to activate BAH and other allowances), medical and dental records transfer, vehicle registration, ID card office, and your unit S1 or PSD. Bring multiple copies of your orders, all ID cards, medical records, vehicle title, and signed housing paperwork. Most installations complete full in-processing in 2–5 business days. Your unit sponsor can walk you through installation-specific requirements and help your family get oriented faster.
Housing & Cost of Living — Fort Hood
The 2026 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for Killeen, TX ranges from $1,530/month for junior enlisted without dependents to $2,340/month for mid-grade officers with dependents. All BAH is 100% tax-free income. Good availability — start your search 30-60 days early. On-base wait: ~2-4 months.
Open BAH Calculator → Browse Housing Near Fort Hood →
More useful BaseNeed resources
Use these quick links to continue your PCS planning, compare BAH, and explore local military community support.
2026 BAH Rate Table — Fort Hood (Killeen, TX)
E-5 with dependents: $1,695/mo | Without dependents: $1,530/mo
| Pay Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 | $1,662/mo | $1,374/mo |
| E-2 | $1,662/mo | $1,374/mo |
| E-3 | $1,662/mo | $1,374/mo |
| E-4 | $1,662/mo | $1,374/mo |
| E-5 | $1,695/mo | $1,530/mo |
| E-6 | $1,920/mo | $1,626/mo |
| E-7 | $2,070/mo | $1,668/mo |
| E-8 | $2,238/mo | $1,746/mo |
| E-9 | $2,409/mo | $1,806/mo |
| W-1 | $1,938/mo | $1,665/mo |
| W-2 | $2,139/mo | $1,743/mo |
| W-3 | $2,346/mo | $1,812/mo |
| W-4 | $2,433/mo | $1,950/mo |
| W-5 | $2,544/mo | $2,109/mo |
| O-1 | $1,731/mo | $1,623/mo |
| O-1E | $2,100/mo | $1,692/mo |
| O-2 | $1,917/mo | $1,689/mo |
| O-2E | $2,313/mo | $1,788/mo |
| O-3 | $2,340/mo | $1,833/mo |
| O-3E | $2,451/mo | $1,908/mo |
| O-4 | $2,577/mo | $2,076/mo |
| O-5 | $2,748/mo | $2,169/mo |
| O-6 | $2,769/mo | $2,325/mo |
| O-7 | $2,787/mo | $2,361/mo |
Source: DFAS 2026 BAH rates for Killeen, TX. Rates are 100% tax-free and updated each January 1st. BAH is designed to cover the 80th percentile of local housing costs.
Cost of Living at Fort Hood
The cost of living index near Fort Hood is 92.5 — 7% below the U.S. national average (100 = national average). This places Killeen, TX in the below average category. Cost of living is 7% below the U.S. national average.
At 92.5, service members here often find meaningful savings on housing, groceries, and everyday expenses compared to higher-cost installations. This is one of the better duty stations for building savings or paying down debt during a tour.
Climate & Lifestyle near Fort Hood
The climate near Fort Hood is Hot summers, mild winters. Factor seasonal weather patterns into your PCS timing and housing search. Research seasonal conditions in Killeen when planning your PCS timing and what to pack in your household goods shipment.
Outdoor recreation and quality-of-life activities vary significantly by season at this installation. Connect with Soldiers already stationed at Fort Hood on BaseNeed's community to get first-hand lifestyle insights.
On-Base Amenities at Fort Hood
As a U.S. Army installation, Fort Hood provides comprehensive on-base facilities for Soldiers, retirees, and eligible family members. These subsidized services significantly reduce cost of living compared to civilian alternatives — one of the major financial benefits of military service.
🍽️ Dining & Clubs
- • Food Court
- • Officers Club
- • NCO Club
- • Coffee Shop
💪 Fitness & Recreation
- • Physical Fitness Center
- • Indoor Pool
- • Outdoor Track
- • CrossFit Box
🏨 On-Base Lodging
- • IHG Army Hotels
- • Guest House
- • Distinguished Visitor Quarters
🤝 Support Services
- • Army Community Service (ACS)
- • Chapel
- • Legal Assistance
- • Military OneSource
🛒 Shopping & Commissary
- • Commissary
- • Post Exchange (PX)
- • Shoppette
- • Class Six
🏥 Healthcare
- • Army Health Clinic
- • Dental Clinic
- • Pharmacy
- • Optometry
🎳 Recreation & Library
- • Post Library
- • Outdoor Recreation
- • Auto Skills Shop
- • Bowling Center
- • Arts & Crafts Center
👨👩👧 Family Services
- • Child Development Center
- • Youth Center
- • School Liaison Office
- • Teen Center
Military Community & Spouse Employment at Fort Hood
The military community around Fort Hood is one of the installation's greatest assets. Connecting with other Soldiers and families before your PCS move smooths the transition — especially for spouses and children adjusting to a new duty station. Use BaseNeed's community features to connect with families currently at Fort Hood, ask questions about local schools and neighborhoods, and find PCS buddies going through the same process.
Military spouse employment near Fort Hood is supported by the Spouse Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) at the installation Family Support Center. Resources include resume workshops, job search tools, licensing and certification support, and connections to military-friendly employers in Killeen. Federal employment via USAJOBS offers Military Spouse Hiring Preference (Executive Order 13473), and many contractors on and near the installation actively recruit military spouses. Remote and hybrid work has also become a popular solution for location-flexible employment across PCS moves.
→ Browse jobs near Fort Hood · → Join the Fort Hood community on BaseNeed
Nearby Communities & Off-Base Living
Service members at Fort Hood live in a range of communities surrounding the installation. Each neighborhood offers different commute times, school districts, and housing prices. Explore housing options in these areas:
Why Fort Hood Stands Out
- III Corps HQ
- Largest Active Duty Post
- Training Center
- Central Texas
Other Military Bases in TX
Comparing duty stations in TX? Browse other installations:
- → Fort Bliss (El Paso)
- → NAS Corpus Christi (Corpus Christi)
- → Lackland AFB (San Antonio)
- → Laughlin AFB (Del Rio)
- → Sheppard AFB (Wichita Falls)
- → Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph (Universal City)
Other U.S. Army Installations
Exploring other U.S. Army duty stations? Compare BAH rates and housing conditions:
- → Joint Base Lewis-McChord (Tacoma, WA)
- → Fort Carson (Fort Carson, CO)
- → Felker Army Airfield (Fort Eustis, VA)
- → Allen Army Airfield (Fort Greely, AK)
- → Cairns Army Airfield (Fort Rucker, AL)
- → Wheeler Army Airfield (Schofield Barracks, HI)
VA Facilities Near Fort Hood
Veterans, retirees, and eligible family members stationed at or transitioning near Fort Hood have 5 Department of Veterans Affairs facilities within reach — for VA healthcare enrollment (Form 10-10EZ), disability claims, education benefits, and counseling. Distances are from the installation.
| VA Facility | Type | Location | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Discharge Site at Fort Cavazos 254-288-3700 | Pre-Discharge Site | Fort Cavazos, TX | 0 mi |
| VA Regional Benefit Satellite Office at Fort Cavazos 254-288-3700 | Satellite Office | Fort Cavazos, TX | 0 mi |
| VetSuccess on Campus at Central Texas College 254-501-3094 | VetSuccess On Campus | Killeen, TX | 2 mi |
| Killeen VA Clinic 254-312-8006 | Primary Care CBOC | Killeen, TX | 3 mi |
| VetSuccess on Campus at Texas A&M University Central Texas 254-519-5404 | VetSuccess On Campus | Killeen, TX | 6 mi |
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov) facilities directory, synced monthly. Verify hours and services with the facility before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions — Fort Hood
What is the 2026 BAH rate at Fort Hood?
For 2026, monthly BAH at Fort Hood ranges from $1,662 with dependents ($1,374 without) for junior enlisted (E-1 to E-4) up to $2,409 for an E-9 with dependents. For example, an E-5 with dependents receives $1,695, an E-7 with dependents $2,070, and an O-3 with dependents $2,340. Rates are tax-free and effective 1 January 2026 — confirm your exact figure with the DTMO BAH calculator.
Does Fort Hood get BAH or OHA?
Fort Hood is a stateside (CONUS) installation, so you receive Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) based on your pay grade and dependency status — not the Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA) used at bases abroad.
How long is the wait for on-base housing at Fort Hood?
On-base family housing at Fort Hood is currently moderate, with typical wait times around 2-4 months. Apply through homes.mil as soon as your orders are cut, and keep an off-base backup plan ready since demand is often high.
Is it expensive to live near Fort Hood?
The local cost-of-living index near Fort Hood is about 92.50 (100 = national average). Build your housing budget around your BAH and compare on-base versus off-base options before committing.
What is the climate like at Fort Hood?
Expect a hot summers, mild winters climate at Fort Hood. Factor seasonal weather into your PCS timing and your housing search.
What cities are near Fort Hood?
Fort Hood is close to Austin, Waco, Temple, where many families look for off-base housing, schools, and amenities.
PCSing to Fort Hood?
BaseNeed is the military community platform built for U.S. Army families. Find verified housing listings, current 2026 BAH rates, local jobs, and connect with Soldiers already stationed at Fort Hood.
Explore Fort Hood on BaseNeed → Browse Housing →Join the Fort Hood community to ask PCS questions, share local tips, and connect with families stationed here.