What's the pay like at the Coast Guard Academy?

I'm considering applying to the Coast Guard Academy and I'm curious about how the pay works while you're a cadet. Does anyone know what cadets generally earn, and how does it change after graduating?

At the United States Coast Guard Academy, cadets receive a monthly stipend while attending the academy, which covers costs for uniforms, books, and personal items. In your first year as a cadet, you'll receive around $1,339 per month. However, keep in mind the costs for your supplies are higher in the first year. The monthly stipend increases a little each year and after your first year, you'll be left with more for personal spending.

After graduating from the Academy and being commissioned as an officer, you'll see a significant jump in your pay. The starting base pay for a fresh officer (an ensign, which is the rank you'd enter as a new graduate) is approximately $4,017 per month, according to the 2024 Military Pay Chart. Additionally, you'll receive a housing allowance, which varies by location and whether you have dependents, and a subsistence allowance for meals, among other benefits.

Keep in mind, with these numbers, the financial aspect of your career in the Coast Guard begins at the Academy – essentially, you're being paid to obtain a top-tier education. Moreover, remember that as an officer, your pay will increase over time with promotions and years of service.

Lastly, your commitment to the Coast Guard isn't just financially rewarded. As a Coast Guard officer, you'll be providing a vital service to your country, which can bring a sense of purpose that goes far beyond a paycheck.