How Much Do Marine Corps Make?
The United States Marine Corps is one of the most respected and elite branches of the military, known for its bravery, discipline, and sacrifice. As a member of the Marine Corps, you’ll have the opportunity to serve your country, develop valuable skills, and receive competitive pay and benefits. But how much do Marine Corps make?
Basic Pay
The basic pay for Marine Corps personnel is determined by their rank and years of service. Here is a breakdown of the basic pay for Marine Corps personnel, from the lowest rank to the highest:
- Private (E-1): $1,733.10 – $1,733.10 per month
- Private First Class (E-2): $1,942.70 – $2,035.40 per month
- Lance Corporal (E-3): $2,043.40 – $2,141.20 per month
- Corporal (E-4): $2,141.20 – $2,341.40 per month
- Sergeant (E-5): $2,341.40 – $2,541.60 per month
- Staff Sergeant (E-6): $2,541.60 – $2,742.80 per month
- Gunnery Sergeant (E-7): $2,742.80 – $3,034.00 per month
- Master Sergeant (E-8): $3,034.00 – $3,325.20 per month
- First Sergeant (E-8): $3,325.20 – $3,616.40 per month
- Master Gunnery Sergeant (E-9): $3,616.40 – $3,907.60 per month
- Sergeant Major (E-9): $3,907.60 – $4,198.80 per month
- Master Sergeant Major (E-9): $4,198.80 – $4,490.00 per month
Special Pay and Bonuses
In addition to basic pay, Marine Corps personnel may also receive special pay and bonuses for their service. These can include:
- Hazardous Duty Pay: $150 – $300 per month
- Imminent Danger Pay: $150 – $300 per month
- Foreign Language Pay: $100 – $200 per month
- Special Duty Pay: $50 – $100 per month
- Enlistment Bonuses: $10,000 – $20,000
- Re-enlistment Bonuses: $5,000 – $10,000
Allowances
Marine Corps personnel may also receive allowances to help offset the costs of living and serving. These can include:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): $1,000 – $3,000 per month
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): $250 – $350 per month
- Clothing Allowance: $200 – $500 per year
- Family Separation Allowance: $250 – $500 per month
Benefits
In addition to pay and allowances, Marine Corps personnel receive a range of benefits, including:
- Health Insurance: Coverage for medical, dental, and vision care
- Retirement Benefits: 20 years of service earns a pension
- Education Benefits: GI Bill benefits for education and training
- Leave: 30 days of annual leave, plus 11 federal holidays
- Food and Lodging: On-base housing and dining facilities
- Fitness and Recreation: Access to fitness centers, recreational facilities, and outdoor activities
Comparison to Other Branches
The pay and benefits of the Marine Corps are comparable to those of other branches of the military. Here is a comparison of the basic pay for Marine Corps personnel to that of other branches:
| Rank | Marine Corps | Army | Navy | Air Force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 | $1,733.10 | $1,733.10 | $1,733.10 | $1,733.10 |
| E-5 | $2,341.40 | $2,341.40 | $2,341.40 | $2,341.40 |
| E-9 | $3,907.60 | $3,907.60 | $3,907.60 | $3,907.60 |
Conclusion
The Marine Corps offers competitive pay and benefits to its personnel, with a range of special pay and bonuses available for those who serve in hazardous or specialized roles. While the pay may not be the highest in the military, the benefits and sense of pride and purpose that come with serving in the Marine Corps make it a highly rewarding career choice.
