Military Pay
Military Pay Charts 2026: All Branches and Ranks
Complete military pay tables for 2026 including basic pay, housing allowances, and special pay for all service branches.
D
David Thompson
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The 2026 military pay raise brings a 4.5% increase across all ranks, continuing a strong trend of above-inflation pay adjustments for service members.
Enlisted Pay (Selected Ranks)
| Rank | Under 2 Years | 6 Years | 12 Years | 20 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 | $23,500 | $23,500 | $23,500 | $23,500 |
| E-5 | $34,200 | $42,800 | $47,500 | $47,500 |
| E-7 | $44,100 | $53,600 | $59,800 | $65,200 |
| E-9 | — | — | $71,400 | $82,900 |
Officer Pay (Selected Ranks)
| Rank | Under 2 Years | 6 Years | 12 Years | 20 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| O-1 | $43,600 | $54,800 | $54,800 | $54,800 |
| O-3 | $56,100 | $76,300 | $86,500 | $88,300 |
| O-5 | $73,800 | $98,400 | $108,600 | $124,700 |
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
BAH rates vary by location, rank, and dependency status. In high-cost areas, BAH can add $30,000-$40,000+ to annual compensation.
Tax Advantages
Military pay offers significant tax benefits: BAH and BAS are not taxable, and many states exempt military pay from state income tax entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is military base pay determined?
Military base pay is determined by pay grade and years of service. The pay table is set by Congress and updated annually.
What is BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing)?
BAH is a monthly allowance that helps service members cover housing costs when government quarters are not provided.
Is military pay taxable?
Base pay is subject to federal and state income taxes. However, many military allowances (BAH, BAS, COLA) are tax-free.
How does military retirement pay work?
The Blended Retirement System combines a defined benefit pension with government TSP matching contributions up to 5%.
What special pay do military members receive?
Special pay includes flight pay, hazardous duty pay, imminent danger pay, sea pay, and re-enlistment bonuses.