If you are assigned to Naval Support Activity Mid-South and receive a Basic Allowance for Housing, you have probably wondered how far it goes when renting off base in Millington. We can’t tell you what your allowance is; that depends on your own situation and is set by the Department of Defense. What we can do is explain how to approach the decision in general terms and give you the confirmed costs at Millington Oaks so you can do the math yourself.
What BAH is, in plain terms
BAH is a military allowance intended to help cover housing costs for service members who live off base. The amount generally depends on factors such as your duty station location, pay grade, and dependency status, and rates are reviewed periodically. The official BAH calculator from the Defense Travel Management Office is the place to look up your rate, and your command or finance office can answer questions about your entitlement.
Because rates change and depend on individual details, we don’t publish BAH figures on this site. Any number you see on a non-official website should be double-checked.
Building a renting budget around your allowance
Start with rent
At Millington Oaks, a one-bedroom, one-bath home of 750 square feet starts from $875 per month, and a two-bedroom, one-bath home of 850 square feet starts from $975. Pricing is subject to change and depends on the specific home and availability, so confirm current asking rent on a tour. You can compare both layouts in the floor plans section of the homepage.
Add the costs that sit outside rent
Rent is the biggest piece, but it isn’t the only one. When you compare your allowance against a home, think about:
- Utilities you will set up and pay yourself (ask the office which ones apply).
- Renters insurance for your belongings.
- Pet rent, if you have a pet; call for the current pet policy.
- Internet, phone, and streaming services.
- Commuting costs such as fuel, even for a short drive to base.
Plan for one-time move-in costs
At Millington Oaks the application fee is $50 and the security deposit is $250. Other charges can apply. Our post on move-in costs walks through how to add these up alongside first month’s rent.
Why location matters for an off-base budget
Living close to where you work can keep everyday costs and time in check. Millington Oaks is at 4945 Navy Rd, in the same city as NSA Mid-South, rather than across the metro. See our apartments near NSA Mid-South page for more on the location, and the map section on our homepage to plan your own route.
One-bedroom or two-bedroom?
The right size depends on your household, not just your allowance. A single service member may find that a one-bedroom covers everything they need. A couple, a family, or someone who works from home may want the extra room in a two-bedroom. Our 1- and 2-bedroom comparison lays out the differences, and the affordable apartments in Millington page focuses on value.
If you are sharing with a roommate
Some service members split a two-bedroom with a roommate. If you go that route, agree on how rent and utilities will be divided before you sign, and ask the leasing office how applications work for more than one adult. See roommates in a two-bedroom for tips.
Questions to ask before you sign
- What is the current asking rent for the specific home I would lease?
- Which utilities are my responsibility?
- What other charges apply beyond the $50 application fee and $250 deposit?
- How would a future set of orders affect my lease? (Your installation’s legal assistance office can also explain your rights under federal law.)
Next steps
Once you know your allowance from official sources and have a budget, the easiest way to decide is to see a home in person. Schedule a tour, call or text (901) 878-0733, or email [email protected]. If you are ready, the official application is online: apply now. If you are still planning your move, our PCS checklist may help.
