That's just base pay. I'm and E-4 active USAF and I make $3175 a month. You have to take into account BAH and BAS. These allowances are not taxable by the way and are added on top of the base pay. Pay is also determined by your location as well. Bah rates are higher in some areas because of the cost of living. If anything his insurance is going to be up the ass, even if he has no accidents or tickets on his record.