Average enlistment age for joining the military

I'm considering joining the military after high school, and I'm curious about what the average enlistment age is. How does it compare for different branches, and are there advantages to enlisting younger or older?

The average enlistment age for military service varies across the branches but generally ranges from 19 to 22 years old.

Army: 20.7 years

Navy: 20.3 years

Marines: 21.7 years

Air Force: 20.4 years

Coast Guard: almost exclusively enlistees are 18-27, though the age range can go up to 39 for the Reserve and up to 31 for active duty.

While the enlistment age averages vary slightly from one branch to the other, they all allow enlistment between the ages of 17 (with parental consent) to 39. As for the advantages of enlisting at a younger versus older age, it really depends on your personal goals and circumstances.

Joining the military at a younger age could mean starting your career sooner and gaining professional experience early on. You could potentially rise through the ranks quicker, gain valuable skills and leadership experience, and begin earning retirement benefits at a younger age.

However, joining at an older age may also have its benefits. Older enlistees often bring a wealth of life experience, maturity, and diverse skill sets acquired through past careers or higher education. This might open up opportunities for specific job roles or qualify them for faster promotions.

Keep in mind that your decision should be based on your personal goals, readiness, and the commitment required by the specific branch you're considering. It's recommended you consult with military recruiters, professionals, or people who have served to gain a comprehensive understanding of what it entails.