The United States Army offers a competitive salary structure to its personnel, with pay scales varying based on rank, time in service, and other factors. For a Sergeant in the US Army, the salary can range from approximately $2,849 to $4,593 per month, depending on the Sergeant's level of experience and the specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) they hold. The US Army's pay system is designed to provide a fair and equitable compensation package to its soldiers, taking into account the unique demands and sacrifices of military service.
Key Points
- The base pay for a Sergeant in the US Army ranges from $2,849 to $4,593 per month, depending on time in service and rank.
- Special pays and allowances, such as hazardous duty pay, special duty assignment pay, and basic allowance for housing (BAH), can significantly increase a Sergeant's total compensation package.
- Non-monetary benefits, including comprehensive healthcare, education assistance, and on-base amenities, are also an integral part of the US Army's compensation package.
- Advancements in rank and specialty can lead to increased pay and benefits, providing a clear path for career progression and financial growth.
- The US Army's pay system is designed to support the unique needs and challenges of military life, with a focus on fairness, equity, and competitiveness with civilian sector compensation.
US Army Sergeant Salary Structure

The US Army’s salary structure for Sergeants is based on the military pay tables, which are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living and other factors. The base pay for a Sergeant in the US Army is determined by their rank and time in service, with more experienced Sergeants earning higher pay. In addition to base pay, Sergeants may also be eligible for special pays and allowances, such as hazardous duty pay, special duty assignment pay, and basic allowance for housing (BAH).
Base Pay for US Army Sergeants
The base pay for a Sergeant in the US Army ranges from 2,849 to 4,593 per month, depending on time in service and rank. The following table provides a breakdown of the base pay for US Army Sergeants at different levels of experience:
Rank | Time in Service | Base Pay per Month |
---|---|---|
Sergeant (E-5) | 2-3 years | $2,849 - $3,302 |
Sergeant (E-5) | 4-6 years | $3,161 - $3,631 |
Staff Sergeant (E-6) | 8-12 years | $3,618 - $4,325 |
Staff Sergeant (E-6) | 13-18 years | $3,863 - $4,593 |

Special Pays and Allowances for US Army Sergeants

In addition to base pay, US Army Sergeants may be eligible for special pays and allowances, which can significantly increase their total compensation package. These pays and allowances are designed to recognize the unique demands and challenges of military service, and may include:
- Hazardous duty pay: $150 - $250 per month
- Special duty assignment pay: $100 - $500 per month
- Basic allowance for housing (BAH): $800 - $2,000 per month
- Basic allowance for subsistence (BAS): $369 per month
Non-Monetary Benefits for US Army Sergeants
Non-monetary benefits are an integral part of the US Army’s compensation package, and may include comprehensive healthcare, education assistance, and on-base amenities. These benefits are designed to support the unique needs and challenges of military life, and may include:
- Comprehensive healthcare: medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Education assistance: tuition reimbursement, GI Bill benefits
- On-base amenities: housing, food, recreation, and entertainment facilities
- Childcare and youth services: subsidized childcare, youth programs
What is the average salary for a Sergeant in the US Army?
+The average salary for a Sergeant in the US Army ranges from 2,849 to 4,593 per month, depending on time in service and rank.
What benefits do US Army Sergeants receive in addition to base pay?
+US Army Sergeants may receive special pays and allowances, non-monetary benefits, and opportunities for advancement, which can significantly increase their total compensation package.
How does the US Army’s pay system compare to civilian sector compensation?
+The US Army’s pay system is designed to be competitive with civilian sector compensation, taking into account the unique demands and sacrifices of military service.