Military Life
Whether it’s providing the day-to-day essentials, such as housing, food and a career, or the extensive travel opportunities and educational experiences, life in the Military is a fulfilling one, on duty and off.
Explore this section
-
Family and Community
Discover the wide range of recreational on-base amenities and comprehensive support programs that help service members care for their families.
Learn More -
Housing
Review the various housing options available to suit the needs of each service member and their family.
Learn More -
Off Duty
Learn how service members spend their off-duty time, from fitness to volunteering to intramural sports and more.
Learn More -
Discounts and Perks
See how life in the Military offers plenty of benefits, no matter where a service member is stationed.
Learn More -
Personal Growth
Hear from service members who can show how the Military built confidence, instilled leadership, encouraged teamwork and motivated them to succeed.
Learn More -
FUTURES Magazine
Learn about many aspects of life in the Military from the men and women who serve every day.
Learn More
Common Questions About Military Life
As in the civilian world, military life varies depending on a service member’s job, attitude and desire. Once work or training is done for the day, however, a service member can do as he or she pleases. Visit Military Life for more information on free time, family support and military perks
There are many benefits to joining the Military, including:
- Opportunities for personal growth, including developing confidence, leadership, and motivation.
- A wide range of careers that align with many personal interests. These roles often include advanced training that helps develop skills which are transferable to employment after the military.
- Employment benefits, like health care, retirement savings, paid vacation, life insurance, and more.
- Off-duty entertainment, rest and relaxation activities, and other family & community offerings
- Competitive salary and compensation that often includes housing allowances, and other additional pay
- Discounts and perks on things like everyday shopping and vacation/leisure opportunities
- A chance to see the world
With installations all over the globe, it is impossible to predict in advance where a service member could be stationed. Following basic training, service members are given assignments based on Service needs, and their skills and training. As such, there are no guarantees a member will serve close to home.
However, service members generally know well in advance where they’ll be going, and deployment does not automatically mean going to war. They may also be deployed for support in noncombat areas or deployed domestically to help with disaster relief.
Military housing varies by rank, location and family situation. New recruits typically start their military careers living on base. Here they have access to a supportive community filled with amenities and comforts of home. Service members who qualify to live off base are given a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) as part of their compensation.
Active-duty service members receive 30 paid vacation days each year as an employment benefit. On top of this, the Military provides a wide range of recreational activities for service members and their families to enjoy on a daily basis.
