How much do You make as a marine?

How Much Do You Make as a Marine?

The question on everyone’s mind when considering a career in the Marine Corps: how much do you make as a Marine? The answer can vary greatly depending on your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), rank, time in service, and education level. In this article, we’ll break down the pay scales for enlisted Marines and officers, providing a comprehensive look at what you can expect to earn.

Enlisted Marines Pay

Enlisted Marines serve as the backbone of the Corps, with responsibilities ranging from infantry and artillery to intelligence and communications. Their pay is determined by their rank, time in service, and special skills. Here’s a breakdown of enlisted Marines pay:

**Pay Grades

• E-1 (Private): $1,733 – $1,733 per month
• E-2 (Private First Class): $1,931 – $1,931 per month
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• E-3 (Lance Corporal): $2,076 – $2,115 per month
• E-4 (Corporal): $2,255 – $2,355 per month
• E-5 (Sergeant): $2,435 – $2,665 per month
• E-6 (Staff Sergeant): $2,785 – $3,085 per month
• E-7 (Gunnery Sergeant): $3,195 – $3,565 per month
• E-8 (Master Sergeant/First Sergeant): $3,535 – $4,095 per month
• E-9 (Master Gunnery Sergeant/Sergeant Major): $4,135 – $4,555 per month

Special Pays and Bonuses

In addition to their base pay, enlisted Marines may receive special pays and bonuses for their service. These can include:

• Hazardous Duty Pay: up to $150 per month
• Imminent Danger Pay: up to $225 per month
• Foreign Language Pay: up to $150 per month
• Diving Pay: up to $150 per month
• Flight Pay: up to $500 per month
• Sign-on Bonuses: up to $40,000 for enlistment and $20,000 for re-enlistment

**Officers’ Pay

Officer candidates are typically commissioned officers, serving as leaders and managers within the Marine Corps. Their pay is also determined by their rank, time in service, and education level. Here’s a breakdown of officers’ pay:

**Pay Grades

• O-1 (Second Lieutenant): $3,287 – $4,287 per month
• O-2 (First Lieutenant): $4,067 – $5,067 per month
• O-3 (Captain): $4,535 – $5,835 per month
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• O-4 (Major): $5,565 – $6,765 per month
• O-5 (Lieutenant Colonel): $6,645 – $7,945 per month
• O-6 (Colonel): $7,775 – $9,275 per month
• O-7 (Brigadier General): $8,955 – $11,355 per month
• O-8 (Major General): $10,245 – $12,745 per month
• O-9 (Lieutenant General): $11,545 – $14,045 per month
• O-10 (General): $12,845 – $15,345 per month

Education Benefits

In addition to their base pay, Marines can also benefit from education assistance programs, such as the Montgomery GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill. These programs provide financial support for higher education, allowing Marines to pursue degrees and certifications while serving their country.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the pay for Marines can vary greatly depending on their rank, time in service, and education level. While enlisted Marines tend to earn lower pay scales, they can benefit from special pays and bonuses. Officers, on the other hand, earn higher pay scales, with increases for education and experience. When considering a career in the Marine Corps, it’s essential to factor in the total compensation package, including education benefits and special pays.

Table: Marine Corps Pay Grades

Table: Officers’ Pay Grades