Intro
Discover the latest US Coast Guard salaries and what you can expect to earn. From entry-level enlisted personnel to high-ranking officers, learn about the top 5 Coast Guard salaries, including median pay, benefits, and allowances. Get insights into salary ranges for Aviation Maintenance Technicians, Maritime Enforcement Specialists, and more.
The United States Coast Guard is a unique branch of the military that plays a critical role in protecting the country's coastlines, waterways, and interests abroad. With a wide range of responsibilities, from search and rescue to maritime law enforcement, the Coast Guard offers a variety of careers with varying salaries. Here are 5 US Coast Guard salaries you should know:
What Factors Affect US Coast Guard Salaries?
Before we dive into specific salaries, it's essential to understand the factors that affect Coast Guard pay. These include:
- Rank: As with any military branch, rank plays a significant role in determining salary. Higher-ranking personnel typically earn more than their lower-ranking counterparts.
- Time in service: The longer you serve, the more you'll earn. Coast Guardsmen with more time in service tend to receive higher salaries.
- Job specialty: Different jobs within the Coast Guard have varying salary ranges. For example, those in technical or specialized fields may earn more than those in administrative roles.
- Location: Where you're stationed can also impact your salary. Coast Guardsmen stationed in areas with a high cost of living, such as San Francisco or New York City, may receive additional compensation to help offset the expense.
1. Coast Guard Ensign (O-1) Salary
The lowest commissioned officer rank in the Coast Guard is Ensign (O-1). Ensigns are typically recent college graduates or officers who have completed Officer Candidate School (OCS). The base salary for an Ensign is around $39,445 per year, with the possibility of earning up to $62,131 per year with additional allowances and bonuses.
Ensign Salary Breakdown:
- Base salary: $39,445 per year
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): $10,000 - $20,000 per year (depending on location)
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): $3,600 per year
- Total salary: $53,045 - $62,131 per year
2. Coast Guard Petty Officer Second Class (E-5) Salary
Petty Officer Second Class (E-5) is a mid-level enlisted rank in the Coast Guard. Petty Officers in this rank typically have several years of experience and have demonstrated leadership potential. The base salary for an E-5 is around $34,895 per year, with the possibility of earning up to $54,451 per year with additional allowances and bonuses.
Petty Officer Second Class Salary Breakdown:
- Base salary: $34,895 per year
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): $10,000 - $20,000 per year (depending on location)
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): $3,600 per year
- Total salary: $48,495 - $58,451 per year
3. Coast Guard Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Salary
Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) are specialized personnel who maintain and repair Coast Guard aircraft. AMTs are typically paid based on their level of experience and certification. The average salary for an AMT is around $60,000 per year, with the possibility of earning up to $90,000 per year with additional experience and certifications.
Aviation Maintenance Technician Salary Breakdown:
- Base salary: $50,000 - $70,000 per year
- Additional certifications and experience: $10,000 - $20,000 per year
- Total salary: $60,000 - $90,000 per year
4. Coast Guard Boatswain's Mate (BM) Salary
Boatswain's Mates (BMs) are specialized personnel who work on Coast Guard cutters and boats. BMs are responsible for deck maintenance, navigation, and other shipboard tasks. The average salary for a BM is around $40,000 per year, with the possibility of earning up to $60,000 per year with additional experience and certifications.
Boatswain's Mate Salary Breakdown:
- Base salary: $35,000 - $50,000 per year
- Additional certifications and experience: $5,000 - $10,000 per year
- Total salary: $40,000 - $60,000 per year
5. Coast Guard Lieutenant (O-3) Salary
Lieutenants (O-3) are mid-level officers in the Coast Guard. Lieutenants typically serve as department heads or executive officers on Coast Guard cutters. The base salary for an O-3 is around $63,285 per year, with the possibility of earning up to $90,425 per year with additional allowances and bonuses.
Lieutenant Salary Breakdown:
- Base salary: $63,285 per year
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): $15,000 - $30,000 per year (depending on location)
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): $3,600 per year
- Total salary: $81,885 - $90,425 per year
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How do I join the US Coast Guard?
+To join the US Coast Guard, you can enlist through a recruiter, attend Officer Candidate School (OCS), or participate in the Coast Guard Academy. You must be a US citizen, meet age and physical requirements, and pass a background check.
What are the benefits of joining the US Coast Guard?
+The US Coast Guard offers a range of benefits, including competitive pay, comprehensive healthcare, education assistance, and opportunities for advancement and training.
How long does it take to become a Coast Guard officer?
+The length of time it takes to become a Coast Guard officer varies depending on the path you choose. The Coast Guard Academy is a four-year program, while Officer Candidate School (OCS) typically lasts 17 weeks.
Whether you're interested in serving as an officer or enlisted member, the US Coast Guard offers a range of career opportunities with competitive salaries and benefits.