The United States Army offers one of the most structured and transparent pay systems among U.S. military branches. Compensation for soldiers depends on rank, years of service, specialty duties, deployment status, and location-based allowances.
Understanding the US Army pay scale is critical for current service members, aspiring soldiers, and families planning for the financial impact of military service. This comprehensive guide provides monthly and annual pay tables, allowances, bonuses, benefits, and career progression details for every Army rank in 2025.
Overview of US Army Pay Scale
1. Key Factors Determining Pay
Army pay is influenced by several core factors:
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Rank (Enlisted vs. Officer)
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Time in Service / Years of Experience
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Special Duty Assignments (aviation, medical, hazardous duty)
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Location-Based Allowances (BAH, cost-of-living adjustments)
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Deployment Pay and Incentives
2. Pay Components
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Basic Pay: Determined by rank and years of service
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Allowances: Housing (BAH), subsistence (BAS), clothing
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Special Pay: Hazardous duty, reenlistment bonuses, flight pay, combat pay
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Retirement Benefits: Pension eligibility after 20 years of service
US Army Pay by Rank and Experience (2025)
Enlisted Personnel (E-1 to E-9)
| Rank | Years of Service | Monthly Base Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 Private | <2 yrs | $1,917 | Entry-level pay, housing and subsistence allowances apply |
| E-2 Private (PV2) | 2 yrs | $2,149 | Small increase after 6 months to 2 years |
| E-3 Private First Class (PFC) | 2–4 yrs | $2,259–$2,503 | Eligible for more allowances, leadership training begins |
| E-4 Specialist / Corporal | 3–6 yrs | $2,503–$2,774 | NCO eligibility begins, leadership roles increase pay |
| E-5 Sergeant | 4–10 yrs | $2,774–$3,506 | Senior NCO duties, eligible for leadership and deployment bonuses |
| E-6 Staff Sergeant | 6–12 yrs | $3,506–$4,281 | Mid-level leadership, more responsibility and pay |
| E-7 Sergeant First Class | 10–16 yrs | $4,281–$5,244 | Advanced NCO, platoon leadership, additional allowances |
| E-8 Master Sergeant / First Sergeant | 12–20 yrs | $5,244–$6,074 | High-level enlisted management, retention bonuses |
| E-9 Sergeant Major | 18–30 yrs | $6,074–$7,300 | Top enlisted rank, senior leadership and advisory roles |
Officer Personnel (O-1 to O-10)
| Rank | Years of Service | Monthly Base Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| O-1 Second Lieutenant | <2 yrs | $3,637 | Entry-level officer pay, leadership of small units |
| O-2 First Lieutenant | 2 yrs | $4,112 | Increased responsibility, eligible for allowances and flight pay |
| O-3 Captain | 2–6 yrs | $4,828 | Mid-level command, may lead company-sized units |
| O-4 Major | 4–10 yrs | $5,691 | Staff officer or field command, eligible for higher allowances |
| O-5 Lieutenant Colonel | 10–16 yrs | $7,170 | Battalion or operational leadership |
| O-6 Colonel | 16–22 yrs | $9,083 | Senior command positions, strategic planning roles |
| O-7 Brigadier General | 22+ yrs | $12,261 | Flag officer, high-level operational and administrative duties |
| O-8 Major General | 24+ yrs | $14,600 | Senior operational and policy responsibilities |
| O-9 Lieutenant General | 25+ yrs | $16,900 | Strategic leadership across multiple divisions or commands |
| O-10 General | 30+ yrs | $18,800 | Top-level Army leadership, national and strategic command roles |
Allowances and Benefits for US Army Personnel
1. Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
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Varies by rank, location, and dependency status
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Covers housing costs for soldiers without government-provided housing
2. Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)
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Covers meals, currently around $452/month for enlisted personnel and $311/month for officers
3. Special Pay and Incentives
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Hazardous Duty Pay: Combat, diving, demolition, or flight assignments
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Reenlistment and Retention Bonuses: For critical skills such as cyber, aviation, or medical fields
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Overseas / Deployment Pay: Additional allowances for high-risk or foreign assignments
4. Healthcare and Insurance
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Tricare Coverage: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision for service members and dependents
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Life Insurance: Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
5. Retirement and Pension
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Defined benefit retirement: Eligibility after 20 years of service
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Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Optional federal retirement savings plan
Career Progression and Pay Increases
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Step Increases: Annual increases based on time in service and rank
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Promotions: Determined by performance, exams, and service requirements
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Special Assignments: Increase pay potential through bonuses and special duty pay
Comparison With Other US Military Branches
| Branch | E-5 Base Pay | O-3 Base Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Army | $2,774–$3,506 | $4,828 | Standardized, includes deployment and housing allowances |
| Navy | $2,774–$3,506 | $4,828 | Sea duty and aviation pay may vary |
| Air Force | $2,774–$3,506 | $4,828 | Flight and hazard pay may be higher |
| Marine Corps | $2,774–$3,506 | $4,828 | Combat deployment bonuses vary |
FAQs — US Army Pay Scale (2025)
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What is the starting pay for an Army recruit?
E-1 soldiers start at $1,917/month plus allowances. -
Do soldiers get housing allowances?
Yes, BAH varies by rank, location, and dependents. -
What healthcare is provided?
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision through Tricare. -
Are there bonuses for special skills?
Yes, including aviation, cyber, medical, and combat-related skills. -
Does pay increase with experience?
Yes, through step increases and promotions. -
Are overseas assignments compensated?
Yes, additional deployment pay and cost-of-living allowances apply. -
How long until a soldier becomes a Sergeant?
Typically 4–6 years depending on performance and time in grade. -
What is the highest enlisted pay?
E-9 Sergeant Major earns $6,074–$7,300/month depending on service years. -
What benefits are offered for families?
Healthcare, housing, education, and dependent support are included. -
Is there retirement after 20 years?
Yes, with pension and optional TSP contributions.
Conclusion
The US Army pay scale in 2025 provides a clear and structured path for enlisted soldiers and officers.
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Enlisted personnel start with competitive base pay, housing, and meal allowances, progressing to senior NCO leadership roles.
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Officers have structured pay increases and special duty incentives, progressing from entry-level leadership to strategic command positions.
Career in the US Army offers financial stability, professional growth, and comprehensive benefits, making it a rewarding choice for dedicated Americans seeking service and long-term career planning.