Average salary for enlisted members in the military?

I'm trying to figure out how much I might earn if I enlist straight out of high school. Can someone break down the average pay or salary expectations for enlisted military members, factoring in different branches?

The salary for enlisted members in the military can vary based on rank, years of service, and the branch of service. Here are the general guidelines for the base pay, not including allowances or specific duty pay:

- The initial rank for most enlisted members is E-1, and as of 2024, the base pay for an E-1 is $1,865.10 monthly (under 4 months of service), and $2,017.20 monthly (above 4 months of service).

- After getting promoted to E-2, the base pay increases to $2,261.10 monthly.

- With each promotion from E-3 through E-9, the base monthly pay increases further. For example, an E-3 makes $2,377.50, and an E-9 makes upwards of $6,370.50 monthly.

Keep in mind, these figures represent base pay with less than two years of service only (except for the E-9 rate, which is at 10 years of service). Enlisted members also receive allowances for housing and food, which are both tax-free. They might qualify for special duty pay as well, such as for hazardous duty, flight duty, or sea duty. Additionally, after completing 20 or more years of service, military members qualify for retirement pay.

Ultimately, while the base pay might seem low compared to some civilian jobs, it's essential to consider the entire compensation package, including tax advantages, education benefits, healthcare, and pension when you're assessing the benefits of a military career.

Lastly, remember that while the pay scales are uniform across all branches of the military, the likelihood of getting promoted and how quickly you can get promoted can vary by service branch and occupation.