Firefighter Salary in Colorado
The median firefighter salary in Colorado is $54,264 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $51,680.
Firefighter Salary Overview in Colorado (2026)
Colorado ranks #11 out of 50 states for firefighter compensation. Colorado falls in the middle of the pack for firefighter pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $54,264 per year, firefighters in Colorado earn $2,584 more than the national median of $51,680.
Colorado's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning firefighter salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Colorado is significant: firefighters at the 10th percentile earn $31,080, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $97,440 — a $66,360 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Colorado for this role is Boulder, where the median reaches $66,150.
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 Colorado by Experience
In Colorado, an entry-level firefighter earns around $33,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,100 per year. The cost of living index in Colorado is 105% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Colorado
| Percentile | CO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,530 |
| Median (50th) | $54,264 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,760 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,440 |
Firefighter Salary by City in Colorado
The largest employment areas for firefighters in Colorado include Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, and Fort Collins. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Firefighter in Colorado
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Colorado
Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Colorado's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Firefighters who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,836 over your career trajectory.
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