re: Could you live off of $2300 a month after standard mortgage/utilities and car/insurance?

The X factors for me would be medical expenses and child related costs popping up. I assume, though, that military personnel don't face high deductibles with health insurance. Aside from tuition, kid related activities and sports get expensive even not doing something like travel ball. What about shoes/clothing for the family? Budget something there, too, as you're always needing things for them.