The Navy Reserve is a vital component of the United States Navy, providing a wide range of support to the active duty Navy in times of peace and war. As a Navy Reserve officer, one can expect a competitive salary that reflects their rank, time in service, and level of education. The Navy Reserve officer salary is based on a pay scale that is similar to that of the active duty Navy, but with some key differences.
For example, a Navy Reserve officer with the rank of Ensign (O-1) and less than 2 years of service can expect to earn a monthly salary of $3,287.10, while an officer with the rank of Lieutenant Commander (O-4) and 10-12 years of service can earn a monthly salary of $8,324.90. These figures are based on the 2022 pay scale and do not include additional forms of compensation, such as special pay and allowances.
Key Points
- The Navy Reserve officer salary is based on a pay scale that reflects rank, time in service, and level of education.
- Navy Reserve officers can earn additional forms of compensation, including special pay and allowances.
- The pay scale for Navy Reserve officers is similar to that of the active duty Navy, but with some key differences.
- Navy Reserve officers can also earn drill pay, which is a monthly payment for participating in drills and training exercises.
- The Navy Reserve offers a range of benefits, including education assistance, health insurance, and retirement plans.
Navy Reserve Officer Pay Scale

The Navy Reserve officer pay scale is based on the same pay grades as the active duty Navy, with officers ranked from O-1 (Ensign) to O-10 (Admiral). The pay scale is adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and other factors. The pay scale for Navy Reserve officers is as follows:
Rank | Monthly Salary (less than 2 years of service) | Monthly Salary (10-12 years of service) |
---|---|---|
Ensign (O-1) | $3,287.10 | $4,849.50 |
Lieutenant Junior Grade (O-2) | $3,787.40 | $6,115.80 |
Lieutenant (O-3) | $4,441.70 | $7,341.30 |
Lieutenant Commander (O-4) | $5,658.90 | $8,324.90 |
Commander (O-5) | $7,161.60 | $10,544.40 |

Additional Forms of Compensation
In addition to their monthly salary, Navy Reserve officers can also earn additional forms of compensation, including special pay and allowances. Special pay is a monthly payment that is paid to officers who have specialized skills or training, such as pilots or medical officers. Allowances are payments that are made to officers to help cover the costs of living, such as housing and food.
For example, a Navy Reserve officer who is assigned to a high-cost area, such as San Francisco or New York City, may be eligible for a cost of living allowance (COLA) to help cover the costs of housing and other expenses. Additionally, officers who have dependents, such as spouses or children, may be eligible for a family separation allowance (FSA) to help cover the costs of maintaining a household while serving on active duty.
Drill Pay

In addition to their monthly salary, Navy Reserve officers can also earn drill pay, which is a monthly payment for participating in drills and training exercises. Drill pay is paid to officers who attend drills and training exercises on a regular basis, typically one weekend per month. The amount of drill pay that an officer can earn depends on their rank and the number of drills they attend.
For example, a Navy Reserve officer with the rank of Lieutenant (O-3) who attends 12 drills per year can earn an additional $1,200 per year in drill pay. This can be a significant source of additional income for officers, and can help to offset the costs of serving in the Navy Reserve.
Benefits
In addition to their salary and drill pay, Navy Reserve officers are also eligible for a range of benefits, including education assistance, health insurance, and retirement plans. The Navy Reserve offers a range of education assistance programs, including the Navy Reserve Tuition Assistance Program, which can help officers pay for college courses and degree programs.
Officers are also eligible for health insurance through the Tricare program, which provides comprehensive medical, dental, and pharmacy coverage. Additionally, officers who serve for 20 years or more are eligible for a retirement pension, which can provide a significant source of income in retirement.
How much does a Navy Reserve officer make per year?
+The salary of a Navy Reserve officer can vary depending on their rank, time in service, and level of education. However, according to the 2022 pay scale, a Navy Reserve officer with the rank of Ensign (O-1) and less than 2 years of service can expect to earn a monthly salary of $3,287.10, which translates to an annual salary of $39,445.20.
Do Navy Reserve officers get paid for drills?
+Yes, Navy Reserve officers can earn drill pay, which is a monthly payment for participating in drills and training exercises. The amount of drill pay that an officer can earn depends on their rank and the number of drills they attend.
What benefits do Navy Reserve officers receive?
+Navy Reserve officers are eligible for a range of benefits, including education assistance, health insurance, and retirement plans. They also receive access to base facilities, including gyms, libraries, and recreational facilities.
In conclusion, the Navy Reserve officer salary is a competitive and comprehensive compensation package that reflects the officer’s rank, time in service, and level of education. With additional forms of compensation, such as special pay and allowances, and benefits like education assistance and health insurance, Navy Reserve officers can enjoy a high quality of life and achieve their career goals.