Intro
Discover 5 USCG salary facts, including pay scales, benefits, and career growth opportunities for Coast Guard personnel, with insights on rank, specialty, and location-based compensation.
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is a unique branch of the military that operates under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, but can be transferred to the Department of the Navy during wartime. As a result, the salary and benefits for USCG personnel can be slightly different from those of other military branches. Here are five key facts about USCG salaries that you should know:
The USCG offers competitive salaries to its personnel, with pay grades ranging from E-1 to O-10. The salary for each pay grade is based on the individual's level of experience, education, and job specialty. For example, an entry-level enlistee (E-1) can expect to earn around $1,733 per month, while a senior officer (O-10) can earn up to $19,762 per month.
USCG personnel also receive a range of benefits, including housing allowance, food allowance, and access to on-base facilities such as gyms, libraries, and shopping centers. They also receive comprehensive health insurance, retirement benefits, and education assistance.
In addition to their base salary, USCG personnel can also earn special pay and allowances for certain types of duty or assignments. For example, personnel who serve on ships or in remote locations may receive a higher housing allowance or special duty pay.
Understanding USCG Pay Grades

Enlisted Pay Grades
The enlisted pay grades in the USCG range from E-1 to E-9. These pay grades are further divided into several levels, each with its own salary range. For example: * E-1 (entry-level enlistee): $1,733 - $1,942 per month * E-2 (junior enlistee): $1,942 - $2,244 per month * E-3 (senior enlistee): $2,244 - $2,586 per month * E-4 (petty officer third class): $2,586 - $3,058 per month * E-5 (petty officer second class): $3,058 - $3,539 per month * E-6 (petty officer first class): $3,539 - $4,149 per month * E-7 (chief petty officer): $4,149 - $4,754 per month * E-8 (senior chief petty officer): $4,754 - $5,366 per month * E-9 (master chief petty officer): $5,366 - $6,063 per monthUSCG Officer Pay Grades

Special Pay and Allowances
In addition to their base salary, USCG personnel can also earn special pay and allowances for certain types of duty or assignments. For example: * Aviation bonus: up to $15,000 per year * Hazardous duty pay: up to $150 per month * Special duty pay: up to $500 per month * Housing allowance: up to $2,000 per month * Food allowance: up to $300 per monthUSCG Benefits and Allowances

Education Assistance
The USCG offers several education assistance programs to help personnel pay for college or vocational training. These programs include: * Tuition assistance: up to $4,500 per year * GI Bill: up to $1,920 per month * Student loan repayment: up to $65,000USCG Career Advancement

Officer Career Advancement
USCG officers can advance their careers through a combination of education, training, and experience. The USCG offers several officer career advancement programs, including: * Officer Candidate School: a 17-week training program for officer candidates * Naval Postgraduate School: a graduate school that offers advanced degrees in fields such as engineering and computer science * Joint Professional Military Education: a program that provides advanced education and training for officersUSCG Salary and Benefits Package

Total Compensation Package
The total compensation package for USCG personnel can vary depending on pay grade, time in service, and job specialty. However, here is an example of the total compensation package for a USCG officer: * Base salary: $6,110 per month * Special pay and allowances: $1,000 per month * Benefits: $1,500 per month * Allowances: $2,000 per month * Total compensation package: $10,610 per monthUSCG Salary Facts Image Gallery










What is the starting salary for a USCG enlistee?
+The starting salary for a USCG enlistee is around $1,733 per month, depending on the individual's pay grade and time in service.
What benefits do USCG personnel receive?
+USCG personnel receive a range of benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement benefits, education assistance, housing allowance, and food allowance.
How do USCG personnel advance their careers?
+USCG personnel can advance their careers through a combination of education, training, and experience. The USCG offers several career advancement programs, including Officer Candidate School, Enlisted Personnel Advancement, and specialty training.
What is the total compensation package for USCG personnel?
+The total compensation package for USCG personnel can vary depending on pay grade, time in service, and job specialty. However, it typically includes a competitive salary, special pay and allowances, benefits, and allowances.
How do I join the USCG?
+To join the USCG, you can visit the USCG website and fill out an application, or contact a USCG recruiter for more information.
In conclusion, the USCG offers a competitive salary and benefits package to its personnel, with a range of opportunities for career advancement and professional growth. Whether you're interested in serving as an enlisted member or an officer, the USCG has a place for you. With its unique mission and rich history, the USCG is an exciting and rewarding career choice for those who want to serve their country and make a difference in their community. We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with us, and to learn more about the USCG and its mission.