Firefighters

The median hourly pay for firefighters was $27.46 in May 2023 (or $57,120 annually based on a 40-hour workweek), according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Ten percent of all firefighters earned less than $15.19 per hour (or $31,600 annually), while the top 10 percent earned more than $45.06 per hour (or $93,720 annually). Fifty percent of firefighters earned between $19.34 and $36.21 (or $40,230 and $75,320 annually). The department also reports that firefighters employed by local government agencies earned a mean hourly wage of $29.93 (or $62,250 annually), Those employed by the state government agencies earned a mean hourly wage of $25.21 (or $52,440 annually).

Many firefighters receive longevity pay for each year they remain in service, which may add thousands of dollars per year to their salaries. Firefighters also earn overtime pay and are usually given shift, weekend, and holiday pay differentials. In addition, firefighters generally receive a uniform allowance and are eligible to retire after 25 years of service or if disabled in the line of duty. Benefits, including health, life, and disability insurance, vary widely according to the community.