Average Firefighter Salary in 2026
National average: $59,530/year | $28.62/hour
Firefighter Salary Range
The unique 24-hours-on, 48-hours-off schedule that many firefighters work allows them to hold second jobs or run side businesses. While this supplemental income doesn't appear in BLS figures, it's a meaningful part of many firefighters' total earnings and a well-established part of the profession.
Certifications beyond basic training boost pay. Firefighters with paramedic certification (not just EMT-Basic) often receive differentials of $3,000-$8,000 per year. HAZMAT technician, technical rescue, and fire inspector certifications also lead to higher-paying specialty assignments.
Department size and location drive base pay. Career firefighters at large urban departments earn much more than those at small-town or volunteer-supplemented departments. Federal firefighters (wildland, military base) follow a separate General Schedule (GS) pay scale.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $34,490 | $16.58/hr |
| Median | $59,530 | $28.62/hr |
| Senior / Top 10% | $101,330 | $48.72/hr |
Firefighter salary by experience level
The $34,500 entry figure primarily reflects smaller departments and lower-cost regions. In major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago, starting pay for new firefighters is typically $45,000-$60,000. Within 5-7 years, most career firefighters reach $60,000-$75,000 at the top of their base scale.
Promotions to engineer/driver, captain, and battalion chief bring substantial raises. Fire captains typically earn $75,000-$95,000, battalion chiefs $90,000-$120,000+. Overtime, holiday pay, and longevity bonuses can add 15-30% to base salary.
The pension is a defining feature of firefighter compensation. Most career firefighters qualify at age 50-55, with benefits calculated as 50-75% of their highest salary. Combined with retiree health benefits and the ability to collect a pension while working a second career, the total lifetime value of firefighting often exceeds what base salary suggests.
Annual Salary
Hours per Week
Federal Tax Estimate
Estimates only. Not tax or legal advice. Consult a tax professional for accuracy.
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What to Expect
On a $59,530 firefighter salary, expect about $10,700 in total federal deductions (income tax, Social Security, and Medicare), leaving roughly $48,800 before state taxes. Firefighter wages range from about $34,500 at entry level to over $84,000 in top-paying states like California and New Jersey.
Becoming a firefighter requires a high school diploma, fire academy training, and EMT certification at minimum. Paramedic certification and specialty credentials like HAZMAT can add $3,000-$8,000 annually. Scroll down for tax estimates, a state-by-state comparison, and the certifications fire departments require.
Firefighter Salary: 2026 Federal Tax Estimate
| Gross Annual Salary | $59,530.00 |
| Federal Income Tax | -$6,158.60 |
| Social Security (6.2%) | -$3,690.86 |
| Medicare (1.45%) | -$863.19 |
| Estimated Net Income | $48,817.35 |
Single filer, no deductions. State taxes not included. Not tax or legal advice.
Top-Paying States for Firefighters
| State | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| California | $84,370 | $40.56/hr |
| New Jersey | $83,080 | $39.94/hr |
| Washington | $81,690 | $39.27/hr |
Highest-paying states for firefighters
Education & Requirements
High school diploma required. Most firefighters complete fire academy training and EMT certification. Some departments prefer or require postsecondary fire science coursework.
Firefighter Job Outlook (2026-2034)
Firefighters respond to fires, medical emergencies, and other hazardous situations. They operate firefighting equipment, provide emergency medical care, conduct safety inspections, and educate the public on fire prevention.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
Firefighter Salary FAQ
Common questions about firefighter pay and career outlook
What is the average firefighter salary?
The average firefighter salary is $59,530 per year, or about $28.62 per hour. Fire captains and firefighters in large urban departments can earn over $101,000 with overtime and hazard pay.
How much do entry-level firefighters make?
Entry-level firefighters typically earn around $34,500 per year ($16.58/hour). Pay increases with seniority, promotions to engineer or captain, and additional certifications like paramedic.
Which states pay firefighters the most?
California leads at $84,370, followed by New Jersey ($83,080) and Washington ($81,690). Large city fire departments and those in high cost-of-living areas offer the best compensation.
Is firefighting a good career financially?
The $59,530 base salary is just the start. Factor in overtime, pension (50-75% of salary at age 50-55), and health benefits, and the total compensation looks much stronger. The 24-on/48-off schedule also lets many firefighters hold second jobs. With 27,100 annual openings, demand is steady.
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