Firefighter Salary in Fort Collins, Colorado
The median firefighter salary in Fort Collins, CO is $54,781 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median and 1.0% above the Colorado state average.
Firefighter Pay in Fort Collins: What to Expect (2026)
Fort Collins offers a median firefighter salary of $54,781, which is $517 above the Colorado state average of $54,264. Compared to the national median of $51,680, Fort Collins pays above average for this role.
Fort Collins's cost of living is 106% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for firefighters in Fort Collins spans from $31,376 at the 10th percentile to $98,368 at the 90th percentile — a $66,992 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,920, while senior firefighters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $86,920. With a population of 169,810, Fort Collins is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Firefighter Salary in Fort Collins by Experience
In Fort Collins, an entry-level firefighter earns around $33,920, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,920 per year. The local cost of living index is 106% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Fort Collins, CO
| Percentile | Fort Collins |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,376 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,916 |
| Median (50th) | $54,781 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,472 |
| 90th Percentile | $98,368 |
Firefighter Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Firefighter in Fort Collins
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Fort Collins and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Fort Collins may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Fort Collins
Browse open firefighter positions in Fort Collins, CO: