Why the same rank can feel different financially after a PCS.
Open the calculator in another tab and run the scenario with your exact rank, years of service, duty state, dependency status, TSP percentage, and insurance settings. These articles explain what to compare, while the calculator gives the estimate.
Base pay is federal and taxable. BAH and BAS are tax-free allowances. That means state tax differences apply mostly to taxable wages and special pays, while tax-free allowances can be a major part of total compensation.
Do not compare only tax rates. Run take-home pay with the actual state, BAH location, rank, years of service, TSP percentage, SGLI, and dependency status. Then compare after-tax pay against rent, childcare, transportation, and spouse income.
No. State treatment varies. Some states have no income tax, some exempt active-duty military pay, and some tax resident service members.
No. BAH and BAS are not taxable wage income.
SCRA protections can affect state taxation, but residency and domicile details matter. Verify with a qualified tax professional for your situation.