Public Service San Jose, CA Pop. 1,013,240

Firefighter Salary in San Jose, California

The median firefighter salary in San Jose, CA is $86,822 per year, which is 68.0% above the national median and 21.7% above the California state average.

City Median
$86,822
vs State Avg
+$15,504
vs National
+$35,142
Cost of Living
168%

Firefighter Salary in San Jose by Experience

In San Jose, an entry-level firefighter earns around $53,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $137,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 168% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$53,760
+$21,760 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$87,360
+$35,360 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$137,760
+$55,760 vs national

Salary Percentiles in San Jose, CA

Percentile San Jose
10th Percentile $49,728
25th Percentile $64,848
Median (50th) $86,822
75th Percentile $119,616
90th Percentile $155,904

Firefighter Salary in Other California Cities

How to Become a Firefighter in San Jose

Education

Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. San Jose and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

FirefightingEmergency MedicalHazmatPhysical FitnessTeamworkEquipment Operation

Job Outlook

Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in San Jose may vary based on local industry and population growth.