Firefighting and Prevention Workers Earn $59,630 Median Salary – What to Know in 2025
Firefighting and prevention workers make a median salary of $59,630 per year, according to the latest BLS estimates. The mean wage is $64,220, or about $29 per hour. Most earn between $35,140 (10th percentile) and $101,230 (90th percentile). Nearly 362,570 workers are employed in this occupation across the country.
How much Firefighting and Prevention Workers earn
Pay for firefighters and prevention specialists varies widely by experience and location. The median $59,630 means half earn more and half less. The top 10% of workers exceed $101,230, largely in senior roles or high-cost areas. Entry-level positions start around $35,140.
The mean hourly wage of $29.00 reflects overtime and hazard pay common in this field. Many departments pay additional compensation for certifications like EMT or paramedic training.
Pay by state
BLS data shows the highest-paying states for firefighting and prevention workers are New Jersey ($82,090), California ($79,890), and New York ($79,350). Lower-paying states include Mississippi ($40,650), Arkansas ($38,940), and Tennessee ($37,830).
Regional cost of living matters: California's high pay also comes with higher housing costs. But in states like New Jersey, the wage often stretches further in suburban areas.
How to become Firefighting and Prevention Worker
Most firefighters start with a high school diploma and complete a state-approved fire academy, which blends classroom and physical training. Many departments require EMT certification.
Typical steps:
1) Meet minimum age (usually 18–21) and physical fitness standards. 2) Obtain EMT-Basic certification (4–6 months of coursework). 3) Attend a fire academy (3–6 months, often run by the hiring department). 4) Pass written exams, physical ability tests, and background checks. 5) Complete probationary training on the job (1–2 years).
Job outlook
BLS projects employment for fire prevention and suppression workers to grow 4% from 2024 to 2034, as fast as the average for all occupations. Despite that modest rate, the need to replace retiring workers and population growth in some areas will create about 19,800 openings each year over the decade.
Frequently asked questions
Do firefighters earn overtime pay?
Yes, most firefighters are eligible for overtime. The $29/hour mean wage often jumps significantly with 24-hour shifts, hazard pay, and holiday differentials.
What is the difference between a firefighter and a prevention worker?
Firefighting and prevention workers include both firefighters (suppression) and fire inspectors / investigators (prevention). The BLS groups them together. Prevention workers often inspect buildings for code compliance and investigate fires.
Can you become a firefighter without a college degree?
Yes, a high school diploma is typically sufficient. Many departments do not require college, though having an associate or bachelor's in fire science can help with promotions.
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 Firefighting and Prevention Workers data.