Serving in the U.S. military is a profound commitment, and understanding the pay structure is vital for service members, recruits, and their families. In 2025, most military personnel will see a 4.5% increase in basic pay compared to 2024. However, junior enlisted ranks (E-1 to E-4 and early E-5s) will receive a substantial 14.5% raise, rolled out in two parts—4.5% starting in January and the remaining increase effective from April 1, 2025.
This year’s updated pay chart, issued by the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), outlines monthly pay rates from April through December 2025 for all active-duty members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force. While some senior officers may see smaller increases due to statutory limits, the overall adjustments reflect the government’s effort to enhance compensation across all branches.
In this guide, we’ll break down the 2025 military pay scales, explain how rank and years of service affect earnings, and highlight allowances and benefits that contribute to total compensation.
US Military Pay Chart 2025
Serving in the United States military entails enormous responsibilities, and knowing the pay system is critical for service members, new recruits, and families. The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) has released the 2025 military pay chart, which contains monthly pay rates from April to December for all active-duty branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force. While statutory constraints may limit increases for some senior officers, the overall improvements show the government’s commitment to enhancing military remuneration at all levels.
| Topic | Specific Information |
|---|---|
| 2025 Pay Increase | A 4.5% raise in basic pay across most ranks. Junior enlisted personnel (E-1 through E-4) receive an additional 10%, totaling a 14.5% increase. |
| Simplified Pay System | Pay is determined by rank (pay grade) and years of service. Salaries increase with experience and promotion. |
| Allowances & Bonuses | Includes Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), and special duty or incentive pay. |
| Official Pay Charts | Full 2025 pay tables are published by the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). Visit the DFAS Pay Tables for details. |
2025 Military Pay Updates: What’s Changing This Year?
Military pay is getting a significant boost in 2025 to support service member retention, improve quality of life, and keep military wages competitive with the civilian market.
- 4.5% Base Pay Raise: All military personnel receive a standard 4.5% raise across the board.
- 14.5% for Junior Enlisted: E-1 through E-4 ranks receive a larger 14.5% pay bump, rolled out in two parts—January and April.
- More Incentive Pay: Extra funds are allocated to high-demand fields like aviation, cyber, and healthcare.
How Military Pay Is Structured in 2025
Military pay in 2025 is structured by rank (pay grade) and years of service—the higher the rank and longer the service, the greater the earnings. Below are sample monthly pay rates for enlisted personnel, warrant officers, and commissioned officers with over 2 years of service.
Enlisted Personnel (Sample Rates Over 2 Years)
| Rank | Grade | Pay (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Private | E-1 | $1,917.63 |
| Private 2nd Class | E-2 | $2,149.20 |
| Private 1st Class | E-3 | $2,259.90 |
| Specialist/Corporal | E-4 | $2,503.50 |
Warrant Officers (Sample)
| Grade | Rank | Pay (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| W-1 | Warrant Officer 1 | $3,399.00 |
| W-2 | Chief Warrant Officer 2 | $3,770.40 |
Commissioned Officers (Sample)
| Grade | Rank | Pay (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| O-1 | Second Lieutenant | $3,637.20 |
| O-2 | First Lieutenant | $4,190.40 |
For full charts, visit the DFAS Pay Tables.
Beyond Base Pay: Extra Allowances & Bonuses
In addition to base pay, service members receive other forms of compensation:
- BAH (Housing): Varies by location, rank, and dependents.
- BAS (Subsistence): $460.50 for officers, $407.83 for enlisted.
- Special Pays: Includes hazardous duty, aviation bonuses, and reenlistment incentives.
Legislative Boosts from the 2025 NDAA
The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) brings additional support:
- Higher housing stipends in costly areas.
- Expanded childcare benefits for families.
- Student loan aid for those pursuing education while serving.
2025 COLA for Military Retirees
Military retirees will see a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) in 2025. While this is lower than the past two years (8.7% and 5.9%), it reflects decreased inflation.
- Recent Retirees (2024): Receive a smaller COLA.
- Retired After 1986 with Bonus: May also see reduced adjustments.
Pentagon Report: Military Pay Is Competitive
A new Pentagon analysis confirms that military compensation remains highly competitive with civilian wages. However, improvements in how housing and cost-of-living allowances are calculated are being considered.
The 14th Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation (QRMC) stresses that to keep the edge, pay must keep up with civilian wage trends—especially for junior enlisted, who are receiving the biggest raise in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is U.S. military pay structured in 2025?
In 2025, military pay is based on rank (pay grade) and years of service—the higher your rank and the longer you’ve served, the more you earn. For example, enlisted personnel with over 2 years of service earn between $1,917 (E-1) and $2,503 (E-4) per month. Warrant Officers like W-1 earn $3,399, and Commissioned Officers such as O-1 earn $3,637 monthly.
What additional allowances and bonuses do service members receive in 2025?
Beyond base pay, service members get extra compensation like BAH (housing allowance based on location, rank, and dependents), BAS ($460.50 for officers, $407.83 for enlisted), and special pays for duties like hazardous work, aviation, and reenlistment bonuses.
What new benefits are included in the 2025 NDAA for military members?
The 2025 NDAA offers enhanced support, including higher housing stipends in high-cost areas, expanded childcare benefits for military families, and student loan assistance for service members continuing their education.
Will military retirees receive a COLA increase in 2025?
Yes, military retirees will get a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) in 2025. This is lower than prior years, owing to decreased inflation. Those who retire in 2024 may receive a lower COLA, and retirees after 1986 who received a career bonus may also see reduced adjustments.
How does military pay compare to civilian wages in 2025?
According to a recent Pentagon review, military pay is very competitive with civilian income. However, the 14th Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation (QRMC) suggests revising how housing and cost-of-living allowances are computed in order to remain competitive with civilian salary trends, particularly for junior enlisted personnel who will receive the greatest boost in 2025.
