As of 2014, the average Firefighters brought home just shy of $45,970 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But earnings vary greatly by location, as employers must offer higher wages in certain areas of the country to attract qualified candidates. On average, the highest wages paid in Firefighters were in New Jersey, New York, California, Washington & Connecticut.
Salary: $22,130 – $81,450
Min. Education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Related Careers: Fire Inspectors, Fire Investigators, Fire Prevention Code Officer, Dispatcher
| State | Salary (hourly) |
| 1. New Jersey | $37.28 |
| 2. New York | $35.19 |
| 3. California | $34.44 |
| 4. Washington | $31.23 |
| 5. Connecticut | $28.03 |
| Lowest Paying States for Firefighters | |
| State | Salary (hourly) |
| 1. West Virginia | $14.03 |
| 2. Kentucky | $15.69 |
| 3. Wisconsin | $15.69 |
| 4. North Carolina | $15.47 |
| 5. Minnesota | $15.81 |