Public Service Alaska (AK) Rank #4 of 50

Firefighter Salary in Alaska

The median firefighter salary in Alaska is $64,083 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $51,680.

Median Salary
$64,083
vs National
+$12,403
State Rank
#4 of 50
Cost of Living
124%

Firefighter Salary Overview in Alaska (2026)

Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for firefighter compensation. This places Alaska in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for firefighters seeking high pay. At $64,083 per year, firefighters in Alaska earn $12,403 more than the national median of $51,680.

It's worth noting that Alaska's cost of living is 124% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $64,083 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $51,680.

The salary spread in Alaska is significant: firefighters at the 10th percentile earn $36,704, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $115,072 — a $78,368 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alaska for this role is Juneau, where the median reaches $69,768.

Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for firefighters across the country.

Firefighter Salary in Alaska by Experience

In Alaska, an entry-level firefighter earns around $39,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,680 per year. The cost of living index in Alaska is 124% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$39,680
+$7,680 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$64,480
+$12,480 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$101,680
+$19,680 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alaska

Percentile AK Salary
10th Percentile $36,704
25th Percentile $47,864
Median (50th) $64,083
75th Percentile $88,288
90th Percentile $115,072

Firefighter Salary by City in Alaska

The largest employment areas for firefighters in Alaska include Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Sitka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Firefighter in Alaska

Education

Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Alaska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

FirefightingEmergency MedicalHazmatPhysical FitnessTeamworkEquipment Operation

Job Outlook in Alaska

Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Alaska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Firefighter Salary in Alaska

How much does a Firefighter make in Alaska? ▼
The median firefighter salary in Alaska is $64,083 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $51,680. Salaries range from $36,704 (10th percentile) to $115,072 (90th percentile).
How much does a Firefighter make per hour in Alaska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $64,083, a firefighter in Alaska earns approximately $31 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alaska a good state for firefighters? ▼
Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for firefighter pay. The cost of living index is 124% of the national average. Entry-level firefighters earn $39,680, while senior professionals earn $101,680.
How does Alaska compare to other states for firefighter salary? ▼
The highest paying state for firefighters is Hawaii at $87,856. Alaska's median of $64,083 ranks #4 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($71,318) and Massachusetts ($69,768).
What is the entry-level firefighter salary in Alaska? ▼
An entry-level firefighter in Alaska earns approximately $39,680 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $64,480. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $101,680.
What city in Alaska pays firefighters the most? ▼
Juneau is the highest paying city in Alaska for firefighters, with a median salary of $69,768. Other cities include Anchorage and Fairbanks.