Navigating Your Deployment Move
Moving to Guam is more than just a change of scenery; it is a strategic relocation. We’ve designed these tools to help take the guesswork out of your transition so you can focus on the mission ahead. Whether you are active duty or a civilian contractor, understanding your allowances is the first step to a stress-free move.
These calculators help you align your housing choice with your government-mandated caps and ensure that your four-legged family members make it to the island without the stress of a long quarantine.
Use them early and often to stay ahead of your logistics.
The Essentials
Before you finalize your lease or pack your first box, there are several "island-specific" factors you must consider. Guam operates differently than the mainland, and being "mission-ready" means looking at more than just the rent.
1. The OHA vs. Rent Balance Your Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA) is designed to cover your rent exactly up to your maximum cap. If your rent is lower than your cap, you do not keep the difference; however, if it’s higher, you pay out of pocket. We recommend finding a home—like IOTB—that fits comfortably within your cap to maximize your utility allowance.
2. TLA/TDY TimingTemporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) typically covers up to 60 days of hotel or certified apartment stay while you look for a permanent home. Because IOTB is military-certified, your stay here is fully reimbursable. Timing your arrival during the "Peak PCS" window (June–August) is critical, as inventory moves fast.
3. The Utility & Internet Factor Guam’s power and water rates can sometimes fluctuate. Always ask about backup generator capacity and Fiber Optic internet availability. For contractors and remote-working spouses, these aren't luxuries, they are requirements for maintaining a reliable connection to the mainland.
4. Pet Logistics Guam is a "Rabies-Free" territory. To avoid the 120-day quarantine, you must start the "FAVN" blood testing process and vaccinations at least 3–4 months before arrival.
Your Pre-Arrival Checklist
Validate Your Orders: Ensure your PCS or TDY orders are uploaded to the Housing Referral Office (HRO) for TLA processing.
Calculate Your Cap: Use the 2026 OHA Calculator to confirm your specific rank-based rental ceiling.
Initiate Pet Testing: Contact your vet immediately for the FAVN test to bypass the long-term quarantine.
Map Your Commute: Confirm your drive time to the Naval Base Guam (Big Navy) main gate—IOTB is just 3 minutes away.
Verify Tech Infrastructure: Confirm Fiber Optic internet and full backup power are available at your chosen residence.
Schedule Your Virtual Tour: Since 75% of discovery happens on mobile, ask for a vertical video walkthrough of your specific unit.
