How does military enlisted pay scale work?

I'm exploring military enlistment post-high school and curious about how the pay scale works for enlisted members. How quickly does compensation increase, and are there factors that influence pay?

Enlisted military pay is primarily based on two factors: the service member's rank and length of service. This is usually defined in a military pay chart, which is updated annually.

Each military branch (Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, Space Force) has an enlisted rank structure, typically starting from E-1 (the lowest rank, such as Private in the Army) to E-9 (highest enlisted rank, such as Sergeant Major of the Army). The pay increases as one progresses through these ranks.

In terms of length of service, the longer one serves, the higher the pay. For example, an E-3 (Private First Class in the Army) with less than two years of service may earn a certain amount. But an E-3 who has served for over three years would earn more.

It's important to note that basic pay is just a part of the complete military compensation picture. There are additional allowances and benefits that significantly increase the total value of the military compensation package. For example, soldiers may receive allowances for housing (Basic Allowance for Housing, or BAH), food (Basic Allowance for Sustenance, or BAS), and are eligible for healthcare, retirement benefits, and more.

Furthermore, pay can be influenced by factors like specific job assignments or specialized training. For instance, service members who are deployed in combat zones or hazardous duty areas typically receive additional compensation.

One key consideration is that military pay, allowances, and benefits can change based on federal budget and policy changes. Therefore, it's always good to check out the most recent pay charts and consult with a military recruiter for the most accurate and detailed information.