According to the Congressional Budget Office that average active duty service member in the Army receives a total annual compensation package worth $99,000. Noncash compensation represents about 60% of that amount. Noncash compensation includes retirement pay, subsidized housing and food, health care, child care and education.
The following chart give you a rough idea of compensation for active duty members of the Army.
| Enlisted Soldier | Civilian Job (Health Specialist) | Army Job* (Health Specialist) |
|---|---|---|
| Salary | $49,953** | $29,380 |
| Housing | 0 | $16,164 |
| Food Allowance | 0 | $3,900 |
| Special Pay | 0 | $1,800 |
| Tax Advantages | 0 | $2,716*** |
| Health Care | - $13,100**** | ncluded |
| Net Income | $36,368 | $53,960 |
*Compensation based on 2010 national averages extracted from http://militarypay.defense.gov – Sample based on a Sergeant (E5) with 4 years service with a family of 4 individuals. Figures do not include bonuses – which can be substantial.
**Civilian salary based on national averages from data provided by Salary Wizard' at Salary.com.
***Tax advantages are frequently overlooked when calculating total military calculations. Remember that all allowances are tax exempt.
****Health-care costs as shown in the above chart are based on a report submited by the National Coalition on Health Care for a family with four individuals.