Financial Assistance

The Office of Financial Readiness Program offers Personal Financial Counselors (PFC's) to help you and your family manage finances, resolve financial problems and reach long-term goals such as getting an education, buying a home and planning for retirement.

The Personal Financial Program at the Military and Family Readiness Center can work with you to prepare a personalized spending plan. Information and assistance is also available in areas such as military pay and allowances, consumer rip-offs, savings, insurance, credit card management, CalVet home loans, free credit reports, investments and much more! Call the M&FRC at 805-606-0039 for more information.

Vandenberg Space Force Base is located in a high cost of living area. Although the military provides reimbursement for some expenses, many individuals and families also have expenses that are not reimbursable. It is recommended that you review and revise your budget for your pending move. Consider all possible options, and ensure there is enough money for first and last month's rent, move-in costs, travel expenses and monthly utilities. Monthly utility costs vary by location and size of residence. Also, be aware that some landlords may not accept personal check on out-of-state accounts. There is a waiting list for on-base housing as well as a waiting list for the Child Development Center. Your automobile insurance rates may increase; therefore, contact your current automobile insurance company for information on California rates and insurance coverage requirements.

The total cost of housing, food, child care, transportation, health care, taxes, and other necessities for a single adult in Vandenberg SFB is $47,834 a year — greater than the annual cost of living for California of $45,534 and greater than the national figure of $38,433.

Home Buying and Rental Options

Santa Barbara County housing marketing is quite high. The average home is currently selling for $914K. The average rent for an apartment in Santa Barbara is $2,660. The cost of rent varies depending on several factors, including location, size, and quality. The Military and Family Readiness Center offers a variety of home buying information, workshops and one-on-one counseling.

Contact your local M&FRC for assistance in planning your “financial” move by preparing a personalized budget and spending plan. Ensure that you are informed of your various travel allowances such as Defense Logistics Agency, per diem and Cost of Living Allowance by contacting your finance office. Be aware of the disadvantages of advance pay and the consequences if you misuse/overuse the government credit card.

The Personal Financial Management Planner located in the M&FRC can work with you to prepare for your permanent change of station.