Firefighter Salary in the USA

Firefighter salary is one of the common salary searches for people who want a career in public safety and emergency services. In the USA, the average firefighter salary can change a lot depending on the state, city, experience, fire department, work schedule and overtime. According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the median firefighter salary was $59,280 per year in May 2025, which is about $28.50 per hour. Some firefighters earn much less when they are starting, while experienced firefighters in high-paying areas can earn more than $100,000 a year. This firefighter salary guide covers the average firefighter salary in the USA, firefighter salary per hour, monthly and yearly pay, firefighter salary by state, highest paying states and other important factors that can change firefighter pay.

What Is the Average Firefighter Salary in the USA?

The average firefighter salary in the United States depends on what salary number is being used. The BLS reports a median annual wage of $59,280 for firefighters in May 2025. The median means that about half of firefighters earn more than this amount and half earn less.

Firefighter pay can be very different from one department to another. A firefighter working in a small department may have a lower base salary, while a firefighter in a large city or high-cost state may have a much higher salary. Overtime, holiday pay, special assignments and other department payments can also increase the final yearly income.

• Median firefighter salary: $59,280 per year
• Median firefighter hourly pay: $28.50 per hour
• 10% lowest salary level: Below $34,910 per year
• 90% highest salary level: Above $101,040 per year
• National firefighter employment: About 345,990 jobs in the May 2025 OEWS data

So, when someone searches for “how much does a firefighter make,” the simple answer is around $59,280 per year at the national median. But this number should not be treated as the exact salary for every firefighter because location and job level makes a big difference.

Firefighter Salary Per Hour

Firefighter salary per hour is another important search because many departments use hourly rates, shift schedules and overtime when calculating firefighter pay. The national median hourly wage for firefighters was $28.50 in May 2025.

At the lower end, 10 percent of firefighters earned less than $16.79 per hour. At the upper end, 10 percent earned more than $48.58 per hour. This shows why firefighter hourly pay can have a wide range across the country.

It is also important to understand that firefighters do not always work a normal 8-hour office schedule. Many departments use long shifts, including 24-hour shifts. Because of this, yearly firefighter salary can be affected by overtime and the number of shifts worked.

Firefighter Salary Per Month

Using the national median annual firefighter salary of $59,280, the simple monthly equivalent is about $4,940 before taxes and other deductions. This is only a calculation from the annual median and it does not mean every firefighter receives exactly $4,940 in a month.

Actual firefighter monthly salary can be different because firefighters may receive overtime, holiday pay, shift differential, specialty pay or other compensation. Some departments also have strong benefits packages that add significant value beyond the basic salary.

• Annual median salary: $59,280
• Approximate monthly salary: $4,940
• Approximate weekly salary: $1,140
• Median hourly wage: $28.50

For people comparing firefighter jobs, it is better to look at the full compensation package instead of only looking at the base salary. A department with a slightly lower salary can sometimes offer better overtime opportunities, retirement benefits or health coverage.

Firefighter Salary by State

Firefighter salary by state can show a very big difference in earning potential. In May 2025, the national median salary was $59,280, but state median wages ranged from about $33,120 in Louisiana to $100,960 in New York. Washington, California and New Jersey were also among the states with much higher firefighter pay.

The table below shows the median annual firefighter salary by state. These figures are useful for comparing firefighter pay across the United States. The state salary figures are based on May 2025 wage data.

Highest Paying States for Firefighters

The highest paying states for firefighters are not always the states with the most firefighter jobs. Salary depends on local government budgets, cost of living, union agreements, department size and the demand for trained emergency workers.

New York has the highest published state median firefighter salary in the May 2025 data, at $100,960 per year. Washington is next at $94,520, followed by California at $85,120 and New Jersey at $84,130. Illinois also has a strong median firefighter salary of $78,380.

• New York: $100,960 median salary
• Washington: $94,520 median salary
• California: $85,120 median salary
• New Jersey: $84,130 median salary
• Illinois: $78,380 median salary
• Connecticut: $77,630 median salary
• Colorado: $74,170 median salary
• Maryland: $73,810 median salary

These numbers show that location can make a very large difference in firefighter salary. A firefighter in a high-paying state can have a much higher base earning level than someone doing a similar job in a lower-paying state.

How Much Does a Firefighter Make a Year?

How much a firefighter makes a year depends on experience, department, location and total working hours. The national median is $59,280 per year, but the salary range is much wider than this single number.

Firefighters in the lowest 10 percent of the national wage distribution earn below $34,910, while firefighters in the highest 10 percent earn above $101,040. This means some firefighters can cross the $100,000 salary level, especially in higher-paying areas and with additional compensation.

For a new firefighter, the starting salary is normally lower than the salary of an experienced firefighter. As the firefighter gains experience, moves into higher ranks or takes on additional responsibilities, total pay can increase.

Firefighter Salary and Overtime Pay

Overtime is an important part of firefighter pay. Fire departments often operate 24 hours a day, so firefighters may work long shifts and additional hours when staffing is needed. BLS also notes that overtime is common for firefighters.

This is why a firefighter's final yearly income may be higher than the posted base salary. During busy periods, special events, emergencies or staffing shortages, overtime can become a bigger part of total earnings.

• Overtime can increase annual firefighter income.
• Long shifts can result in different pay structures.
• Holiday and special shift pay may add extra money.
• Some departments offer additional pay for special skills.
• Promotion to higher positions can increase total compensation.

However, overtime should not be treated as guaranteed salary. It can change from one department to another and from one year to another.

Firefighter Starting Salary

Firefighter starting salary is usually lower than the salary of an experienced firefighter. A person entering the profession may start with a basic pay rate set by the local fire department or city government. The exact firefighter starting salary can be very different depending on the location and department.

Entry level firefighter salary is also affected by training status. Some departments pay recruits while they complete required academy training, while others have different arrangements before the firefighter becomes a full employee. After completing training and probation, the salary can increase based on the department's pay schedule.

• Starting pay depends on the local fire department.
• Large city departments can have higher starting salaries.
• Training and probation can affect initial pay.
• Overtime can increase total income after becoming eligible.
• Salary normally increases as the firefighter gains experience.

People comparing firefighter jobs should check the actual salary schedule of each department instead of using only the national firefighter salary. The national number is useful for a general comparison, but local firefighter pay can be very different.

Entry Level Firefighter Salary

Entry level firefighter salary is one of the most searched questions by people who are thinking about joining a fire department. New firefighters generally have less experience and may begin at the first step of the department's salary scale.

In many departments, firefighters can receive regular step increases as they complete additional years of service. This means the salary during the first year may not be the same as the salary after three, five or ten years.

Benefits can also make the entry level firefighter job more valuable than the basic salary appears. Health insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation and sick leave may be included depending on the employer.

Firefighter Salary by Experience

Experience is an important factor in firefighter salary. A new firefighter normally earns less than someone who has spent many years working in emergency response. With more experience, firefighters may become eligible for higher salary steps, promotions and additional responsibilities.

Firefighter salary by experience does not follow one national fixed scale. Every fire department can have its own pay system. A firefighter in a large metropolitan department may also have a different salary path than one working for a small local department.

New Firefighter

A new firefighter usually starts near the bottom of the department's salary range. During this stage, the main focus is learning department procedures, emergency response, fire suppression, rescue work and safe operation of equipment.

Experienced Firefighter

After several years, a firefighter may move through the department's salary steps. Experience can also help a firefighter qualify for specialized assignments or promotional examinations.

Senior Firefighter

Senior firefighters often have more responsibility at emergency scenes and may help train newer members. Their total pay can be higher because of experience, seniority, overtime and additional assignments.

Firefighter Salary With Overtime

Firefighter salary with overtime can be considerably higher than base salary. Fire departments need workers around the clock, and overtime may be available when a department needs additional staffing or when firefighters work beyond their normal scheduled hours.

Overtime is one reason two firefighters with the same basic salary can have very different total yearly earnings. One firefighter may work mostly scheduled shifts, while another may take additional shifts throughout the year.

• Extra shifts can increase annual firefighter pay.
• Overtime may be available during staffing shortages.
• Holiday work can sometimes receive additional compensation.
• Special assignments may provide extra pay.
• Total overtime depends on department rules and available hours.

It is important to remember that overtime is not guaranteed income. When comparing jobs, the base firefighter salary should be checked first, and overtime should be considered additional earning potential.

Firefighter Salary and Benefits

Firefighter salary and benefits are both important when looking at the total value of this career. Firefighters are commonly employed by local government organizations, and many full-time positions may offer benefits along with their regular pay.

The exact benefits depend on the employer, employment agreement and location. A firefighter should always check the benefit package offered by a specific department before comparing job offers.

• Health insurance
• Dental and vision coverage
• Retirement or pension benefits
• Paid vacation
• Paid sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Life insurance
• Training and professional development

For some firefighters, retirement benefits can be especially important because fire service is a physically demanding career. The value of these benefits should be considered separately from the advertised annual salary.

What Affects Firefighter Salary?

There is no single firefighter salary that applies to everyone in the United States. Several factors can change how much a firefighter earns. Location is one of the biggest factors, but it is not the only one.

Location

Firefighter salary can change significantly between states and cities. Higher-paying states often have higher local wages and different labor markets. The salary of a firefighter in New York or Washington can be much different from the pay available in a lower-paying state.

Experience

Years of service can affect salary through scheduled pay increases and promotions. Experienced firefighters may also qualify for assignments that offer additional compensation.

Fire Department Size

Large fire departments may have larger budgets and more structured salary schedules. Small departments can have different pay systems, particularly in rural communities.

Overtime

Overtime can have a major effect on annual firefighter income. Firefighters who work extra shifts can sometimes earn substantially more than their base salary.

Rank and Promotion

Promotion can also increase firefighter pay. Firefighters may have opportunities to move into positions such as lieutenant, captain, battalion chief or other leadership roles. These positions normally come with more responsibility and a different salary range.

Special Skills

Some departments may provide additional compensation for special skills, certifications or specific assignments. The availability and amount of this extra pay depends on the individual fire department.

How Much Does a Firefighter Make in Different Cities?

State-level salary is useful, but city-level firefighter pay can be even more important when someone is searching for a job. Two cities inside the same state can have different salary schedules because fire departments are often operated by local governments.

Large metropolitan areas may have higher salaries than smaller communities. However, a higher firefighter salary does not automatically mean better financial value because housing and other living costs can also be much higher.

When comparing cities, firefighters should look at the full compensation package instead of salary alone.

• Base annual firefighter salary
• Overtime opportunities
• Health insurance costs
• Retirement benefits
• Vacation and paid leave
• Cost of living
• Promotion opportunities

Firefighter Salary Compared With Other Public Safety Jobs

Firefighter salary is often compared with other public safety careers such as police officer, emergency medical technician and paramedic. These jobs can have similar work environments but their salary levels and job responsibilities are not exactly the same.

Firefighters may respond to fires, vehicle crashes, medical emergencies, hazardous situations and rescue calls. Because the work can involve long shifts and physically demanding emergency response, salary should be considered together with working conditions and benefits.

Do Firefighters Make Good Money?

Whether firefighters make good money depends on the location, experience and total compensation. The national median firefighter salary of $59,280 is a solid income for many workers, but living costs are very different across the United States.

Firefighters in higher-paying states and cities can earn much more than the national median. Experienced firefighters who work overtime or move into higher ranks may also have significantly higher annual earnings.

For someone choosing this career, salary is only one part of the decision. Job stability, benefits, retirement, schedule and the type of emergency work should also be considered.

Highest Paid Firefighters

The highest paid firefighters are generally found in areas where firefighter wages are higher and where departments have strong salary schedules. New York, Washington, California and New Jersey are among the states with the highest state median wages in the May 2025 data used in this article.

However, the highest paid firefighter in one department may not simply be the person with the longest years of service. Overtime, rank, special assignments and other compensation can make a large difference in final annual income.

Firefighter Career Outlook in the USA

Firefighting continues to be an important public safety occupation in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of firefighters is projected to grow 4 percent from 2025 to 2035. The BLS also projects about 26,800 openings for firefighters each year, on average, over that period.

Many of these openings are expected because workers leave the occupation or retire, not only because of new job creation. This means people interested in becoming firefighters can continue to find employment opportunities, although competition for individual fire department positions can be strong.

Firefighter Job Requirements

Firefighter requirements can vary by state and department, but candidates normally need to meet age, education, physical fitness and other employment requirements. Many departments require a high school diploma or equivalent, while additional training may be required depending on the position.

Applicants also normally need to pass several stages of the hiring process. The exact process is different for each department.

• Application and eligibility screening
• Written examination
• Physical ability testing
• Interview
• Background investigation
• Medical examination
• Drug screening where required
• Fire academy or department training

Because requirements are local, anyone interested in becoming a firefighter should check the official hiring requirements of the fire department where they want to work.

Education and Training for Firefighters

Firefighter education normally includes practical training in fire suppression, rescue, emergency response and equipment operation. New firefighters receive substantial on-the-job and academy training after being hired.

Some candidates also complete emergency medical training because firefighters frequently respond to medical calls. Having additional certifications can be useful for a career in fire and emergency services, although exact requirements depend on the department.

Firefighter Salary: Base Pay vs Total Pay

One important thing to understand when researching firefighter salary is the difference between base pay and total pay. Base salary is the regular amount attached to the firefighter's position. Total pay can include overtime, holiday pay, special assignment pay and other forms of compensation.

For example, two firefighters could have the same base salary but finish the year with different earnings because one worked more overtime. This is why salary records and job postings should be checked carefully before comparing firefighter income.

Is Firefighter a Good Career in the USA?

Firefighter can be a good career for people who want public service work and are comfortable with physical activity, emergency situations and unusual work schedules. The job offers the possibility of stable employment, benefits and opportunities for advancement.

At the same time, firefighting is not an easy job. Firefighters can work long shifts and face dangerous environments. The physical and emotional demands should be considered before choosing the career only because of the salary.

For people who enjoy helping others, working as part of a team and responding to emergencies, firefighting can provide a long-term career path with opportunities to move into higher positions.

Firefighter Salary by Experience Level

Firefighter salary usually increases as a person gets more experience in the fire service. A new firefighter normally starts at the lower end of the department pay scale, while an experienced firefighter can move to higher salary steps and may also qualify for overtime, specialty pay or promotion.

There is no single nationwide salary chart for every experience level because each fire department has its own pay structure. Still, experience is an important part of firefighter career salary and can make a noticeable difference over time.

• Entry-level firefighter: Usually starts near the first salary step.
• Experienced firefighter: Can receive higher step-based pay and additional opportunities.
• Senior firefighter: May take more responsibility and help train new members.
• Fire officer: Promotion to lieutenant, captain or higher positions can bring higher pay.

For this reason, someone searching for “firefighter salary by experience” should not only look at the first-year salary. The long-term salary progression can be more important when deciding whether this is a good career.

Firefighter Salary After 5 Years

Firefighter salary after 5 years can be higher than the starting salary because many departments use scheduled salary steps. A firefighter who stays with the same department may receive increases as experience and service time grows.

After five years, a firefighter may also have more opportunities to work overtime or qualify for specialized assignments. The actual salary, however, depends on the department and location, so there is no fixed national five-year firefighter salary.

Firefighters should also remember that promotion can change the salary path. Someone who moves into a higher rank may earn more than a firefighter who remains at the same position.

Firefighter Salary After 10 Years

Firefighter salary after 10 years can be significantly different from the starting salary. By this point, an employee may have reached a higher salary step and could have years of experience in emergency response, fire suppression and rescue operations.

Some firefighters also choose to move into leadership positions during this period. A promotion to lieutenant, captain or another supervisory role can increase salary and responsibility.

Long-term earnings can also be affected by overtime. A firefighter who regularly accepts extra shifts may have a higher total annual income than another firefighter with the same base salary.

Firefighter Salary by Rank

Fire department rank is another factor that can affect firefighter pay. A firefighter normally begins in an entry-level position, but there can be several promotional levels above it. Higher ranks generally involve more responsibility and supervision.

The titles and salary structure can be different between departments. Not every fire department uses exactly the same ranks, and promotion requirements also vary.

Firefighter Salary in Large Cities

Large cities can offer higher firefighter salaries than some smaller communities. Big city fire departments often have larger operations, more emergency calls and structured career salary systems.

However, a high firefighter salary in a large city does not always mean the firefighter has more money left after expenses. Housing, transportation and other living costs can be much higher in major metropolitan areas.

When comparing a firefighter job in a large city, salary should be looked at together with the cost of living and benefits.

Firefighter Salary in Small Cities and Rural Areas

Firefighter salary in small cities and rural areas can be lower than pay in large metropolitan departments. Local budgets, population size and department funding can all influence firefighter wages.

Some rural fire departments also depend heavily on volunteer firefighters. A volunteer firefighter may receive different compensation from a full-time career firefighter.

People looking for a full-time firefighter career should carefully check whether a position is classified as career, part-time or volunteer before comparing salaries.

Volunteer Firefighter Salary

Volunteer firefighters are an important part of the fire service in many communities, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas. Volunteer firefighters generally do not have the same salary structure as full-time career firefighters.

Some volunteer departments may provide stipends, per-call payments, training benefits or other forms of compensation. Others may not provide regular wages. Because of this, volunteer firefighter salary should not be compared directly with the national full-time firefighter salary.

• Volunteer positions can have different compensation rules.
• Some departments provide a small stipend.
• Some may provide payment for calls or training.
• Many volunteer firefighters have another main job.
• Benefits can also differ from career firefighter positions.

Firefighter Salary in California

California is one of the higher-paying states for firefighters. The May 2025 state median firefighter wage used in this article is about $85,120 per year.

California also has large metropolitan areas and a high cost of living. Therefore, a firefighter comparing California salaries should consider both the advertised salary and local living expenses.

Fire departments can have different salary schedules, so the actual pay for a firefighter job depends on the specific city or department.

Firefighter Salary in New York

New York has the highest state median firefighter salary in the May 2025 figures used for this article, at about $100,960 per year. This makes New York one of the strongest states for firefighter earning potential.

High salaries in New York can also come with higher living costs, especially in major metropolitan areas. A firefighter should compare total compensation and expenses before deciding where to work.

Firefighter Salary in Washington

Washington is another state where firefighter wages are relatively high. The May 2025 median firefighter salary used here is about $94,520 per year.

The final earnings of a firefighter can still vary by department, rank, experience and overtime. A firefighter working additional shifts may have total annual pay above the basic salary level.

Firefighter Salary in Texas

Texas is one of the largest states for employment and has many fire departments across cities and communities. The May 2025 median firefighter salary used in this article is about $60,180 per year.

Texas can be attractive for firefighters because there are many different types of communities and fire departments. Salary can change significantly between departments, so applicants should check local pay scales.

Firefighter Salary in Florida

Florida has a large population and many fire and emergency service departments. The May 2025 median firefighter salary used in this article is about $58,550 per year.

Firefighter employment in Florida can vary by city and county. Candidates should compare base salary, overtime, benefits and retirement options when evaluating a position.

Firefighter Salary in Illinois

Illinois has one of the stronger firefighter salary levels in the country. The May 2025 median firefighter salary used here is about $78,380 per year.

Salary can vary between Chicago-area departments, suburban departments and smaller communities. Experience, rank and overtime can also change total firefighter earnings.

How to Increase Your Firefighter Salary

Firefighters can potentially increase their income by gaining experience, taking additional training, working overtime and applying for promotional positions. The available options depend on the department.

• Gain more years of fire service experience.
• Apply for promotional opportunities.
• Take approved specialized training.
• Work eligible overtime shifts.
• Look for departments with stronger salary schedules.
• Consider specialized emergency response assignments.

Moving to another department can sometimes increase base salary, but it can also mean giving up seniority or other benefits. A salary increase should therefore be compared with the complete compensation package.

Firefighter Job Duties

A firefighter does much more than fighting building fires. Firefighters respond to many types of emergencies and can provide rescue, emergency medical assistance and other public safety services.

• Respond to structure and vehicle fires.
• Rescue people from dangerous situations.
• Respond to traffic and vehicle accidents.
• Provide emergency medical assistance when trained and authorized.
• Handle hazardous material incidents.
• Inspect and maintain firefighting equipment.
• Participate in fire prevention and public education.
• Train regularly for emergency situations.

The work can be physically demanding and may require firefighters to operate in smoke, heat, dangerous structures and other difficult environments.

Firefighter Work Schedule

Firefighter work schedule is different from a normal office job. Many departments use long shifts because fire stations need to remain staffed around the clock. Depending on the department, firefighters may work 24-hour shifts followed by periods off duty.

The exact schedule varies between fire departments. Night work, weekends and holidays can be part of the job because emergencies do not follow a normal business schedule.

This schedule can be attractive to some workers because several days may be available away from the station after a long shift. For others, the long hours can be difficult.

Firefighter Salary vs Cost of Living

A firefighter salary should always be compared with the cost of living in the location. A salary of $80,000 may provide a very different lifestyle in two different cities.

Housing is often one of the biggest differences. Transportation, food, taxes, insurance and other daily expenses can also change from state to state.

For this reason, the highest firefighter salary does not automatically mean the best financial situation. A lower salary in a more affordable location may sometimes provide similar or better purchasing power.

Is Firefighter Salary Worth It?

For many people, firefighter salary can be worth it when combined with benefits, job stability, retirement opportunities and the personal satisfaction of public service. The career can provide a clear path from entry-level firefighter to experienced firefighter and eventually into leadership.

But salary should not be the only reason to enter the profession. Firefighting can involve dangerous situations, physical demands, long shifts and stressful emergency calls. A person should be comfortable with these parts of the job before choosing the career.

Overall, the firefighter salary in the USA provides a reasonable national earning level, while firefighters in some states and departments can earn considerably more. Experience, overtime, rank and location are some of the biggest factors that determine actual annual pay.

Firefighter Salary: Key Takeaways

• The national median firefighter salary was $59,280 per year in May 2025.
• The median firefighter hourly wage was about $28.50 per hour.
• The highest 10 percent earned more than $101,040 per year.
• New York had the highest state median salary in the figures used here, at about $100,960.
• Overtime can increase a firefighter's total annual income.
• Experience and promotion can lead to higher pay.
• Benefits such as retirement, health insurance and paid leave can add significant value.
• Firefighter salary should be compared with the local cost of living.
• The BLS projects about 26,800 firefighter openings per year on average from 2025 to 2035.

Conclusion

Firefighter salary in the USA can range widely depending on state, city, experience, department and overtime. The national median annual salary of $59,280 gives a useful starting point, but firefighters in higher-paying states can earn much more. New firefighters generally start at a lower salary and can increase their earnings through experience, promotions, overtime and specialized assignments.

For anyone considering this career, it is important to look beyond the basic firefighter pay. Salary, benefits, retirement, work schedule, job requirements and cost of living all matter when choosing a fire department. With steady demand for emergency services and thousands of projected job openings each year, firefighting remains an important career option in the United States.