US Air Force Ranks And Salary 2025

The United States Air Force (USAF) stands as one of the most powerful and respected military branches in the world, playing a crucial role in national defense and global security. Beyond its prestige and mission, many individuals are drawn to the Air Force for its competitive salary structure, steady career progression, and comprehensive benefits.

Air Force Rank Structure

A. Enlisted Airmen (E-1 to E-9)

Enlisted Airmen form the foundation of the Air Force, handling essential technical, operational, and administrative duties that keep missions running smoothly. Their ranks progress as follows:

Airman Basic (E-1)
Airman (E-2)
Airman First Class (E-3)
Senior Airman (E-4)
Staff Sergeant (E-5)
Technical Sergeant (E-6)
Master Sergeant (E-7)
Senior Master Sergeant (E-8)
Chief Master Sergeant (E-9)

Enlisted personnel typically enter through basic military training and advance through experience, performance, and specialized education, taking on greater leadership and technical responsibilities at each rank.

B. Commissioned Officers (O-1 to O-10)

Commissioned officers serve as the leaders and decision-makers of the U.S. Air Force, responsible for commanding units, managing operations, and guiding enlisted personnel. They play key roles in strategic planning, mission execution, and overall organizational leadership.

The commissioned officer ranks are as follows:

Second Lieutenant (O-1)
First Lieutenant (O-2)
Captain (O-3)
Major (O-4)
Lieutenant Colonel (O-5)
Colonel (O-6)
Brigadier General (O-7)
Major General (O-8)
Lieutenant General (O-9)
General (O-10)

Commissioned officers typically enter through the U.S. Air Force Academy, ROTC programs, Officer Training School (OTS), or direct commissioning. As they advance in rank, they take on greater levels of authority, responsibility, and strategic influence within the Air Force.

U.S. Air Force Salary Structure (2025)

The 2025 U.S. Air Force salary structure follows the official military pay chart set by the U.S. Department of Defense, which includes a 4.5% pay increase from the previous year. Pay rates vary based on rank, years of service, and location, with additional allowances for housing, food, and special duties.

A. Enlisted Airmen Pay (E-1 to E-9)

E-1 (Airman Basic): approximately $2,700 per month
E-2 (Airman): around $3,000 per month
E-3 (Airman First Class): between $3,200 and $3,500 per month
E-4 (Senior Airman): about $3,800 per month
E-5 (Staff Sergeant): $4,300 to $4,700 per month
E-6 (Technical Sergeant): $5,000 to $5,500 per month
E-7 (Master Sergeant): $5,800 to $6,500 per month
E-8 (Senior Master Sergeant): $6,800 to $7,500 per month
E-9 (Chief Master Sergeant): $8,500 to $9,500 per month

These figures reflect basic pay only and do not include additional benefits such as housing allowances, cost-of-living adjustments, or bonuses, which can significantly increase total compensation depending on duty assignment and service duration.

B. Commissioned Officers Pay (O-1 to O-10)

O-1 (Second Lieutenant) – $4,900 – $5,400 per month
O-2 (First Lieutenant) – $5,600 – $6,200 per month
O-3 (Captain) – $6,800 – $8,000 per month
O-4 (Major) – $8,500 – $9,800 per month
O-5 (Lieutenant Colonel) – $9,900 – $11,000 per month
O-6 (Colonel) – $11,500 – $13,000 per month
O-7 (Brigadier General) – $14,000 – $15,000 per month
O-8 (Major General) – $16,000 – $17,000 per month
O-9 (Lieutenant General) – $18,000 – $19,000 per month
O-10 (General) – $20,000+ per month

Allowances and Benefits

In addition to basic pay, members of the U.S. Air Force receive a wide range of allowances and benefits that significantly enhance their overall compensation package. These benefits are designed to support the well-being of service members and their families both during and after military service.

Key allowances and benefits include:

Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): Provides financial support for housing expenses when living off-base.
Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): Helps cover the cost of daily meals.
Clothing Allowance: Covers the purchase and maintenance of uniforms.
Health and Dental Care: Offers comprehensive medical and dental coverage for service members and their dependents.
Education Benefits: Includes programs such as the GI Bill, which provides funding for college education or vocational training during or after military service.
Retirement Benefits: After 20 years of active service, members become eligible for lifetime pension benefits and continued access to military healthcare programs.

These allowances and benefits make an Air Force career not only financially rewarding but also secure and supportive for long-term personal and professional growth.

Promotion and Pay Growth

Promotions in the Air Force are based on performance, time in service, and leadership ability. Each promotion comes with a significant salary increase, additional responsibilities, and better benefits. For enlisted personnel, it’s possible to reach E-5 or E-6 within the first 8–10 years of service, while officers can become Captains (O-3) within four years.

The US Air Force salary in 2025 remains competitive compared to civilian jobs, considering the allowances, benefits, and job security that come with military service. With steady promotions and multiple benefits, serving in the Air Force provides both financial stability and a rewarding career path.

In summary, Air Force members not only serve their country but also enjoy a structured salary system with consistent pay raises, housing and health benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

Joining the U.S. Air Force in 2025 offers an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a challenging career with strong financial rewards. Whether as an enlisted airman or an officer, the Air Force ensures every member is well-compensated, respected, and supported throughout their service.