EMT/Paramedic Salary in Arkansas
The median emt/paramedic salary in Arkansas is $32,701 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $38,930.
EMT/Paramedic Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic compensation. EMT/Paramedic salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $32,701 per year, emt/paramedics in Arkansas earn $6,229 less than the national median of $38,930.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $32,701 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,930 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: emt/paramedics at the 10th percentile earn $21,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $52,080 — a $30,240 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $34,258.
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for emt/paramedics across the country.
EMT/Paramedic Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level emt/paramedic earns around $23,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $48,720 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $21,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $26,040 |
| Median (50th) | $32,701 |
| 75th Percentile | $42,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $52,080 |
EMT/Paramedic Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for emt/paramedics in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a EMT/Paramedic in Arkansas
Education
Most emt/paramedic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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