EMT and Paramedic Salary: $48,150 median (2025 data)
The median annual salary for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics is $48,150, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $23 per hour. The middle half of workers earn between $36,000 and $76,810 annually.
EMTs and paramedics respond to medical emergencies, administering CPR, bandaging wounds, and stabilizing patients for transport. About 281,120 people hold these jobs across the country.
How much Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics earn
The average (mean) hourly wage is $23.64, with annual mean earnings of $52,750. Lower-paid EMTs, those in the 10th percentile, bring home roughly $36,000, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $76,810.
Pay by state
BLS data for highest- and lowest-paying states is not available for this occupation. However, salaries tend to be higher in urban areas with high costs of living and in regions with strong union presence. For localized figures, check state-level OEWS reports.
How to become Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedic
To become an EMT, you need a high school diploma and completion of a state-approved EMT training program—often offered by community colleges or technical schools. These programs cover patient assessment, airway management, and trauma care.
- Complete a state-approved EMT-Basic course (typically 120–150 hours).
- Pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive and psychomotor exams.
- Obtain state licensure (requirements vary but always include NREMT certification).
- For paramedic roles, earn an associate degree in paramedicine (1–2 years) and additional NREMT paramedic certification.
- Maintain certification through continuing education (often 48–72 hours every 2 years).
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for EMTs and paramedics for 2024–2034. However, demand for emergency services is expected to continue due to an aging population and increased need for ambulance transport. Employment levels may fluctuate with local funding for emergency medical services.
Frequently asked questions
Do EMTs make a lot of money?
The median wage is $48,150, which is below the national average for all occupations ($65,470). Top earners can make over $76,000.
Which states pay EMTs the most?
BLS does not list highest-paying states for this occupation in the latest data. Historically, Washington, Alaska, and New York have reported higher averages.
What is the highest paying EMT position?
Paramedics earn more than EMTs. The median for paramedics specifically is around $55,000, with top earners exceeding $80,000 in some areas.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics data.