The United States Army provides a systematic pay scale that differs depending on rank, years of experience, and the duties assigned. Knowing the pay structure is critical for individuals considering a career in the Army or looking for information regarding military pay. This manual discusses rank-by-rank salaries, various divisions of the Army, and other benefits offered to soldiers.
US Army Rank-Wise Salary (Update)
The Army has a well-defined pay grade based on the Department of Defense’s Basic Pay. The rank-wise base pay table for officers and enlisted personnel is given below.
Enlisted Soldiers (E-1 to E-9) Monthly Basic Pay
| Rank | Years of Service (0-2) | 2-4 Years | 4-6 Years | 10+ Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 (Private) | $1,917 | $1,917 | $1,917 | $1,917 |
| E-2 (Private 2) | $2,149 | $2,149 | $2,149 | $2,149 |
| E-3 (Private First Class) | $2,259 | $2,403 | $2,545 | $2,545 |
| E-4 (Specialist/Corporal) | $2,503 | $2,631 | $2,774 | $3,056 |
| E-5 (Sergeant) | $2,730 | $3,049 | $3,345 | $3,813 |
| E-6 (Staff Sergeant) | $3,040 | $3,502 | $3,863 | $4,868 |
| E-7 (Sergeant First Class) | $3,544 | $4,160 | $4,922 | $6,038 |
| E-8 (Master Sergeant) | $4,480 | $5,223 | $5,808 | $7,285 |
| E-9 (Sergeant Major) | $5,637 | $6,136 | $7,057 | $9,189 |
Officer Ranks (O-1 to O-10) Monthly Basic Pay
| Rank | Years of Service (0-2) | 2-4 Years | 4-6 Years | 10+ Years |
| O-1 (Second Lieutenant) | $3,637 | $4,093 | $4,637 | $5,374 |
| O-2 (First Lieutenant) | $4,190 | $4,862 | $5,369 | $6,663 |
| O-3 (Captain) | $4,849 | $5,815 | $6,489 | $8,050 |
| O-4 (Major) | $5,516 | $6,892 | $7,805 | $9,997 |
| O-5 (Lieutenant Colonel) | $6,393 | $8,036 | $9,163 | $11,787 |
| O-6 (Colonel) | $7,876 | $9,965 | $11,212 | $14,470 |
| O-7 (Brigadier General) | $9,144 | $10,383 | $12,812 | $15,986 |
| O-8 (Major General) | $10,399 | $11,988 | $14,165 | $18,005 |
| O-9 (Lieutenant General) | $16,444 | $16,444 | $16,444 | $16,444 |
| O-10 (General) | $17,675 | $17,675 | $17,675 | $17,675 |
US Army Sector-Wise Salary Breakdown
The Army consists of various specialized sectors, each offering different pay scales based on experience and responsibilities.
Combat and Infantry
- Infantry Soldier: $2,500 – $6,500 per month
- Special Forces: $3,500 – $10,000 per month
- Snipers: $3,200 – $8,500 per month
Medical Corps
- Army Doctor: $6,000 – $15,000 per month
- Army Nurse: $4,000 – $8,000 per month
- Combat Medic: $3,500 – $7,500 per month
Engineering & Technical Roles
- Army Engineer: $4,000 – $9,000 per month
- Cybersecurity Specialist: $4,500 – $10,000 per month
- Army Pilot: $5,000 – $12,000 per month
Logistics and Support
- Supply Chain Officer: $3,500 – $8,000 per month
- Transportation Specialist: $3,000 – $7,500 per month
- Military Police: $3,200 – $7,000 per month
Additional Pay and Benefits in the US Army
In addition to basic pay, Army personnel receive various allowances and benefits:
Allowances
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): Covers housing costs for soldiers living off base.
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): Covers food expenses.
- Hazard Pay: Additional compensation for deployment in combat zones.
- Flight Pay: For Army pilots and aviation personnel.
Special Pay and Bonuses
- Reenlistment Bonuses (up to $90,000 for specific roles)
- Special Duty Pay (for unique assignments)
- Incentive Pay (for hazardous duties like parachuting and diving)
Benefits
- Free healthcare for active-duty personnel
- Tuition assistance for higher education
- Retirement benefits after 20 years of service
- Life insurance coverage
The US Army provides competitive pay and complete benefits for enlisted individuals, officers, and special occupations. Pay is higher in rank, years of service, and additional duty incentives. Future career individuals in the Army can look forward to stable income, medical care, home allowances, and retirement.
