Military member pledging allegiance
Top ranking officers can make up to $220k as a salary.
  • Base pay is the same across the military but can increase significantly as you move up the ranks.
  • Military personnel can get other tax-free allowances for housing and meals.
  • Other benefits include comprehensive healthcare, discounted education, and hefty signing bonuses.  

Most people don't turn to government jobs for high pay — unless they're considering joining the military.

Military service can offer a solid base pay, especially as you rank up. But the full compensation package of active military personnel goes beyond annual salary.