Hi y'all, I'm a rising junior and have been looking into the military as a post-high school route. Do all the branches pay the same, or does it depend on which one you're in? How much of a difference is there? Anybody in the know, your insights would be super appreciated!
Hello! Military pay is based on rank and years of service, rather than the specific branch (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard). This means that an E-3 (which is an enlisted personnel rank) with less than two years of service would earn the same basic pay whether they're in the Navy, Army, or any other branch. The base pay is set and adjusted every year by the Department of Defense.
However, there can be variations in your overall income due to allowances and special pays. Allowances are non-taxable money given for specific needs such as housing (Basic Allowance for Housing, or BAH), meals (Basic Allowance for Subsistence, or BAS), and Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) for those stationed in expensive areas. Special pays can be given for various reasons such as being in a combat zone, being a medical or dental officer, serving on a submarine, and more.
Keep in mind that choosing a branch of the military should depend on more than just pay. Each branch has different opportunities, duties, and challenges associated with it, and what you're looking to get out of your military service should be a big factor in your decision. Try to speak with current or former members of the different military branches and do some thorough research before making your choice. That will give you a better understanding of what daily life is like in each branch, and how it aligns with your future career and life goals. Best of luck!
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