Public Service Missouri (MO) Rank #42 of 50

EMT/Paramedic Salary in Missouri

The median emt/paramedic salary in Missouri is $34,258 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $38,930.

Median Salary
$34,258
vs National
$-4,672
State Rank
#42 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

EMT/Paramedic Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)

Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic compensation. EMT/Paramedic salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $34,258 per year, emt/paramedics in Missouri earn $4,672 less than the national median of $38,930.

A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $34,258 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,930 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Missouri is significant: emt/paramedics at the 10th percentile earn $22,880, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $54,560 — a $31,680 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $35,816.

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 Missouri by Experience

In Missouri, an entry-level emt/paramedic earns around $24,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $51,040 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$24,640
$-3,360 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$35,200
$-4,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$51,040
$-6,960 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Missouri

Percentile MO Salary
10th Percentile $22,880
25th Percentile $27,280
Median (50th) $34,258
75th Percentile $44,000
90th Percentile $54,560

EMT/Paramedic Salary by City in Missouri

The largest employment areas for emt/paramedics in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a EMT/Paramedic in Missouri

Education

Most emt/paramedic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Emergency MedicineCPR/ALSPatient AssessmentTrauma CareCommunicationDriving

Job Outlook in Missouri

Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Missouri's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: EMT/Paramedic Salary in Missouri

How much does a EMT/Paramedic make in Missouri? ▼
The median emt/paramedic salary in Missouri is $34,258 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $38,930. Salaries range from $22,880 (10th percentile) to $54,560 (90th percentile).
How much does a EMT/Paramedic make per hour in Missouri? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $34,258, a emt/paramedic in Missouri earns approximately $16 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Missouri a good state for emt/paramedics? ▼
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level emt/paramedics earn $24,640, while senior professionals earn $51,040.
How does Missouri compare to other states for emt/paramedic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for emt/paramedics is Hawaii at $66,181. Missouri's median of $34,258 ranks #42 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include South Carolina ($34,648) and Tennessee ($34,648).
What is the entry-level emt/paramedic salary in Missouri? ▼
An entry-level emt/paramedic in Missouri earns approximately $24,640 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $35,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $51,040.
What city in Missouri pays emt/paramedics the most? ▼
Kansas City is the highest paying city in Missouri for emt/paramedics, with a median salary of $35,816. Other cities include Saint Louis and Springfield.