The salary of an E5 in the U.S. Army, also known as a Sergeant, varies depending on several factors including years of service, special duty assignments, and location. As of 2023, the base pay for an E5 with less than two years of service starts at approximately $2,610 per month. However, with over 12 years of service, the base pay can increase to about $3,786 per month.

In addition to base pay, Sergeants may also receive additional allowances and benefits, such as:

1. Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): This allowance is provided to service members who do not live in government-provided housing. The amount varies based on the cost of living in the area, the service member's pay grade, and whether they have dependents. For example, an E5 with dependents living in a high-cost area like San Diego could receive over $2,500 per month in BAH.

2. Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): This is a non-taxable allowance intended to offset the cost of food. In 2023, the BAS rate for all enlisted members is $452.56 per month.

3. Special Pay and Bonuses: Depending on their job, location, and other factors, Sergeants may be eligible for special pays such as hazardous duty pay, jump pay, or reenlistment bonuses. For instance, an E5 serving in a combat zone may receive an additional $225 per month in hazardous duty pay.

4. Health and Retirement Benefits: The Army provides comprehensive health care benefits at no cost to the service member, and retirement benefits are available after 20 years of service. The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is also available, which is a retirement savings and investment plan similar to a 401(k).

5. Education Benefits: The Army offers tuition assistance and the GI Bill, which can cover the cost of education and training. For example, the Post-9/11 GI Bill can provide up to 36 months of tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for books and supplies.

6. Tax Advantages: Military pay, especially when deployed to combat zones, can be partially or fully tax-free. For example, all pay received while serving in a designated combat zone is tax-free, which can significantly increase take-home pay.

When considering all these factors, the total compensation for an E5 can be significantly higher than the base pay alone. For example, an E5 with 6 years of service, living in a high-cost area with dependents, and receiving special pays could have a total compensation package exceeding $5,000 per month.

It's important to note that these figures are subject to change and can vary based on individual circumstances and changes in military pay scales and allowances. For the most accurate and personalized information, service members should consult their finance office or use the military pay calculators available on official military websites.