Which branch of the military offers the highest entry-level pay?

I'm contemplating enlisting right after high school and am focused on which branch to join. I'm wondering, based on your knowledge or personal experiences, which branch offers the highest pay at entry level? Thanks in advance!

Pay for the military is typically standardized across all branches (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and the Space Force) at the entry level. In other words, an E-1 in the Army is paid the same basic pay as an E-1 in the Navy, Air Force, and so on. Your base pay will primarily be determined by your rank and years of service instead of the branch you're in.

However, certain branches might offer special bonuses or pay incentives for particular roles or skills. For instance, those with highly specialized skills such as nuclear operators, cyber professionals, or cryptolinguistic experts can get sizable enlistment and re-enlistment bonuses, and these professions may be more prevalent in some branches than others.

Additionally, your total compensation may not solely be reflected in your base pay. Additional benefits, such as housing or food allowances, health insurance, retirement benefits, and tuition assistance have value as well, though they're usually consistent across branches.

The best way to determine which branch would be most financially beneficial for you depends on your skills, interests, and long-term goals. It'd be wise to talk with recruiters from different branches, ask about pay for different roles, as well as the advantages and opportunities each branch offers.