U.S. Navy
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard — Kittery, ME, United States
📍 Kittery, ME, United States
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, located on an island in Kittery, Maine, across the river from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is the Navy's oldest continuously operating shipyard and specializes in the overhaul, repair and modernization of nuclear-powered attack submarines. It anchors a skilled industrial workforce on the New England Seacoast. Families live throughout the Seacoast region, including Kittery, Portsmouth, Dover and surrounding towns in Maine and New Hampshire. Understanding your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) helps in weighing options in this desirable coastal area. The climate is humid continental and coastal — warm summers, cold, snowy winters and beautiful New England autumns. Beaches, historic Portsmouth and both the Boston metro and the mountains are within reach. Employment in the area spans defense, shipbuilding, healthcare, education and services, and the Seacoast market supports spouse employment and remote work. Families benefit from strong local schools, area military and TRICARE healthcare, and child and youth programs. Whether you are PCSing to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard for the first time or returning for another tour, BaseNeed connects you with verified housing listings, current BAH rates by rank, local jobs for service members and spouses, and a military community ready to help you settle in.
As a Naval installation, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard supports fleet readiness, sailor training, and maritime operations. Navy installations offer robust family support programs designed around deployment cycles. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about PCSing to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard: 2026 BAH rates by pay grade, housing market conditions, on-base amenities, schools, cost of living, and community resources.
Quick Facts about Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
- Branch & location
- U.S. Navy · Kittery, ME, United States
- 2026 BAH (E-5)
- $3,321/mo with deps · $2,700 without
- Climate
- Humid Continental
- Off-base housing
- moderate
- Nearest VA facility
- Newington Vet Center Outstation (~2 mi)
PCS to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard — Complete 2026 Guide
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard requires planning that most Sailors 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 Portsmouth Naval Shipyard 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. Navy 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 Kittery, ME is your housing budget ceiling. E-5 with dependents: $3,321/month. E-5 without dependents: $2,700/month. E-7 with dependents: $3,975/month. O-3 with dependents: $4,461/month. BAH is fully tax-free and determined by your pay grade and dependency status. In Kittery, BAH rates are calibrated to cover the 80th percentile of local rental costs, leaving most service members with practical options within their allowance. 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. 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 Portsmouth Naval Shipyard on BaseNeed, filtered to your BAH rate and preferred communities.
Step 4: Schools, Childcare, and Family Resources
Contact the School Liaison Officer (SLO) at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard 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 Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
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 — Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
The 2026 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for Kittery, ME ranges from $2,700/month for junior enlisted without dependents to $4,461/month for mid-grade officers with dependents. All BAH is 100% tax-free income. Good availability — start your search 30-60 days early.
Open BAH Calculator → Browse Housing Near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard →
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 — Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (Kittery, ME)
E-5 with dependents: $3,321/mo | Without dependents: $2,700/mo
| Pay Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 | $3,099/mo | $2,367/mo |
| E-2 | $3,099/mo | $2,367/mo |
| E-3 | $3,099/mo | $2,367/mo |
| E-4 | $3,099/mo | $2,367/mo |
| E-5 | $3,321/mo | $2,700/mo |
| E-6 | $3,690/mo | $2,901/mo |
| E-7 | $3,975/mo | $3,108/mo |
| E-8 | $4,278/mo | $3,399/mo |
| E-9 | $4,617/mo | $3,504/mo |
| W-1 | $3,717/mo | $3,033/mo |
| W-2 | $4,098/mo | $3,396/mo |
| W-3 | $4,476/mo | $3,519/mo |
| W-4 | $4,668/mo | $3,756/mo |
| W-5 | $4,905/mo | $4,044/mo |
| O-1 | $3,372/mo | $2,877/mo |
| O-1E | $4,032/mo | $3,318/mo |
| O-2 | $3,687/mo | $3,249/mo |
| O-2E | $4,419/mo | $3,480/mo |
| O-3 | $4,461/mo | $3,555/mo |
| O-3E | $4,704/mo | $3,684/mo |
| O-4 | $4,983/mo | $3,993/mo |
| O-5 | $5,355/mo | $4,167/mo |
| O-6 | $5,400/mo | $4,455/mo |
| O-7 | $5,445/mo | $4,536/mo |
Source: DFAS 2026 BAH rates for Kittery, ME. Rates are 100% tax-free and updated each January 1st. BAH is designed to cover the 80th percentile of local housing costs.
Climate & Lifestyle near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
The climate near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is Humid Continental. Factor seasonal weather patterns into your PCS timing and housing search. High humidity in summer months is common — prioritize housing with efficient HVAC and ensure your HHG shipment is protected from moisture.
Outdoor recreation and quality-of-life activities vary significantly by season at this installation. Connect with Sailors already stationed at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard on BaseNeed's community to get first-hand lifestyle insights.
On-Base Amenities at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
As a U.S. Navy installation, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard provides comprehensive on-base facilities for Sailors, 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
- • Galley
- • Cafe
- • Coffee Shop
💪 Fitness & Recreation
- • Fitness Center
- • Indoor Pool
- • Indoor Track
🏨 On-Base Lodging
- • Navy Gateway Inns & Suites
- • Temporary Lodging
🤝 Support Services
- • Fleet & Family Support Center
- • Chapel
- • Legal Assistance
- • Military OneSource
🛒 Shopping & Commissary
- • Commissary (regional)
- • Navy Exchange (NEX)
- • Mini Mart
🏥 Healthcare
- • Branch Health Clinic Portsmouth
- • Dental Clinic
- • Pharmacy
🎳 Recreation & Library
- • Base Library
- • Outdoor Recreation
- • Marina
👨👩👧 Family Services
- • Child Development Center
- • Youth Center
- • School Liaison Office
Military Community & Spouse Employment at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
The military community around Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is one of the installation's greatest assets. Connecting with other Sailors 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 Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, ask questions about local schools and neighborhoods, and find PCS buddies going through the same process.
Military spouse employment near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard 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 Kittery. 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 Portsmouth Naval Shipyard · → Join the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard community on BaseNeed
Why Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Stands Out
- Submarine Overhaul
- Oldest Navy Shipyard
- New England Seacoast
- Skilled Trades
Other U.S. Navy Installations
Exploring other U.S. Navy duty stations? Compare BAH rates and housing conditions:
- → NAS Oceana (Virginia Beach, VA)
- → NAS North Island (Coronado, CA)
- → NAS Fallon (Fallon, NV)
- → Naval Base San Diego (San Diego, CA)
- → Naval Station Norfolk (Norfolk, VA)
- → NAS Lemoore (Lemoore, CA)
VA Facilities Near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Veterans, retirees, and eligible family members stationed at or transitioning near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newington Vet Center Outstation 603-668-7060 | vet_center | Portsmouth, NH | 2 mi |
| Portsmouth VA Clinic 603-624-4366 | Primary Care CBOC | Portsmouth, NH | 4 mi |
| Somersworth VA Clinic 603-624-4366 | Multi-Specialty CBOC | Somersworth, NH | 14 mi |
| Haverhill VA Clinic 800-838-6331 | Multi-Specialty CBOC | Haverhill, MA | 27 mi |
| Sanford Vet Center 207-490-1513 | vet_center | Springvale, ME | 27 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 — Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
What is the 2026 BAH rate for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
The 2026 BAH rate at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard for an E-5 with dependents is $3,321/month and $2,700/month without dependents. An E-7 with dependents receives $3,975/month. An O-3 with dependents receives $4,461/month. BAH is 100% tax-free and is based on the local Military Housing Area (MHA) for Kittery, ME. Rates are updated each January 1st based on DoD rental market surveys.
How do I PCS to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
To PCS to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard: (1) Confirm your orders and report-no-later-than (RNLTD) date. (2) Request a sponsor from your gaining unit. (3) Calculate your 2026 BAH for Kittery, ME — E-5 with dependents receives $3,321/month. (4) Apply for on-base housing early or browse off-base rentals. (5) Schedule your HHG shipment through DPS (move.mil). (6) In-process with finance, medical, and your unit upon arrival.
Is housing available near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
Housing near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is currently moderate. Good availability — start your search 30-60 days early. 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. Browse verified military housing listings on BaseNeed filtered to this base and your BAH budget.
What is the cost of living near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
Cost of living in Kittery, ME varies. BAH rates are calibrated annually to local rental markets, ensuring your housing allowance keeps pace with actual costs.
What branch of the military is Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a U.S. Navy installation located in Kittery, ME. It is classified as a station.
What is the on-base housing wait time at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
On-base housing wait times at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard vary by availability, housing type, and pay grade. Contact the garrison Housing Office after receiving orders for the most current waitlist information. Submitting your application early preserves your place even if you ultimately choose to live off-base.
What amenities are at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard offers on-base dining & clubs, fitness & recreation, on-base lodging, support services, shopping & commissary, healthcare, recreation & library, family services. These facilities are available to active duty Sailors, retirees, and eligible family members. The commissary saves military families an average of 30% on groceries vs. commercial prices. Fitness centers are free for active duty members.
Are there jobs for military spouses near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
Military spouses at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard have several employment pathways. On-base: Federal positions via USAJOBS (military spouse hiring preference, E.O. 13473), AAFES, DoDEA schools, childcare centers, and contractor roles. Off-base: Kittery has civilian employers familiar with military families. The Spouse Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) at the Family Support Center provides free resume help, job search tools, and licensing/certification resources. Browse military-friendly jobs near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard on BaseNeed.
What schools are near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
Children of service members at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard can attend on-base DoDEA schools (if available) or public schools in Kittery and surrounding districts. DoDEA schools follow a standardized curriculum across all installations, making PCS transitions smoother for students. Contact the School Liaison Officer (SLO) at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard for help with school enrollment, records transfers, and identifying the best educational fit for your family.
What is the climate like near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
The climate near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is Humid Continental. Humidity in summer months can be significant — look for housing with efficient HVAC systems. Factor weather patterns into your PCS timing and housing search.
What family support services are available at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard offers a full range of family support through the installation's family readiness programs. Key resources include the Family Support Center (financial counseling, deployment support, family advocacy), Child Development Centers (subsidized childcare — register immediately after receiving orders, waitlists can be 6-12 months), the School Liaison Officer for education transitions, and the Chapel for spiritual support. Use BaseNeed's community features to connect with families already at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard for candid, first-hand advice.
How does BAH work at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
BAH at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a tax-free monthly allowance based on the Kittery, ME Military Housing Area. Your rate is determined by pay grade and dependency status. You receive BAH whether you live on-base or off. In privatized on-base housing, your BAH equals your rent — you break even. Off-base, any difference between your BAH and actual rent is yours to keep, tax-free. 2026 E-5 rates: $3,321/mo with dependents, $2,700/mo without.
What is the population of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a U.S. Navy installation in Kittery, ME, hosting active duty Sailors, their families, and a significant civilian workforce.
What communities are near Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is located in Kittery, ME. Surrounding communities offer off-base housing, schools, dining, and shopping for military families. Use BaseNeed to explore housing listings near this installation.
Is Portsmouth Naval Shipyard a good duty station?
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is reviewed by the BaseNeed community from Sailors and families stationed there. Quality of life depends on your priorities — housing affordability, school quality, spousal employment, climate, and community. Join BaseNeed's Portsmouth Naval Shipyard community group to connect with service members currently stationed there for honest, first-hand perspectives.
Where is the nearest VA facility to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
The nearest VA facility to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is Newington Vet Center Outstation in Portsmouth, NH — a vet_center about 2 miles from the installation. There are 5 VA locations within reach for healthcare enrollment (VA Form 10-10EZ), disability claims, education benefits, and counseling. Others nearby: Portsmouth VA Clinic (4 mi), Somersworth VA Clinic (14 mi). Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov).
PCSing to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
BaseNeed is the military community platform built for U.S. Navy families. Find verified housing listings, current 2026 BAH rates, local jobs, and connect with Sailors already stationed at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
Explore Portsmouth Naval Shipyard on BaseNeed → Browse Housing →Join the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard community to ask PCS questions, share local tips, and connect with families stationed here.