I'm currently on my 10th year of Active Duty Army. The first couple years suck as far as pay goes unless you are married and/or have kids. If so its not all that bad because you will receive BAH (housing pay). When I joined I was only 18, no kids and not married so I lived in the barracks. Once you get some time in and get more rank the pay is great. Base pay goes off your current rank and years in service. Try to get in at the highest rank possible. If you have a college degree you can come in as an E4 (SPC). Active duty you get full health ins and dental. If you ask me the military is the way to go.