One sure bet: Stay in uniform p1 - Military Career Advancement - Military Times Edge

Before you make the leap to a civilian career, diligently consider the decision, said John Gannon, vice president for investor education at the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (SaveandInvest.org). His reasons:

Job stability

In an unstable economy, new hires in the private sector are often the first to go. If you have a civilian company in mind, look at its financial prospects. You don’t want to go to work for a company that starts laying people off three months later.

Benefits

Comparing civilian salaries with your straight military compensation can be misleading because you probably won’t receive a housing allowance — or pension — from a private company. Look at health benefits, too. If you have a child with special needs, for example, the military’s total coverage is hard to beat.

Unexpected costs

Leaving the service and moving across the country could cost thousands, and reimbursement for moving expenses is limited. And if your spouse has a job, also consider whether he or she would be able to find similar work in a new location.

Housing slump

Now is not a good time for anyone to sell a home. And even if you can, it may take a long time, Gannon said.