Public Service Connecticut (CT) Rank #8 of 50

Firefighter Salary in Connecticut

The median firefighter salary in Connecticut is $57,882 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median of $51,680.

Median Salary
$57,882
vs National
+$6,202
State Rank
#8 of 50
Cost of Living
112%

Firefighter Salary Overview in Connecticut (2026)

Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for firefighter compensation. This places Connecticut in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for firefighters seeking high pay. At $57,882 per year, firefighters in Connecticut earn $6,202 more than the national median of $51,680.

It's worth noting that Connecticut's cost of living is 112% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $57,882 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $51,680.

The salary spread in Connecticut is significant: firefighters at the 10th percentile earn $33,152, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $103,936 — a $70,784 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Connecticut for this role is Stamford, where the median reaches $71,318.

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 Connecticut by Experience

In Connecticut, an entry-level firefighter earns around $35,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,840 per year. The cost of living index in Connecticut is 112% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$35,840
+$3,840 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$58,240
+$6,240 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$91,840
+$9,840 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Connecticut

Percentile CT Salary
10th Percentile $33,152
25th Percentile $43,232
Median (50th) $57,882
75th Percentile $79,744
90th Percentile $103,936

Firefighter Salary by City in Connecticut

The largest employment areas for firefighters in Connecticut include Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford, and Stamford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Firefighter in Connecticut

Education

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

Key Skills

FirefightingEmergency MedicalHazmatPhysical FitnessTeamworkEquipment Operation

Job Outlook in Connecticut

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

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Data shows Firefighters who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $33,958 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Firefighter Salary in Connecticut

How much does a Firefighter make in Connecticut? ▼
The median firefighter salary in Connecticut is $57,882 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median of $51,680. Salaries range from $33,152 (10th percentile) to $103,936 (90th percentile).
How much does a Firefighter make per hour in Connecticut? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $57,882, a firefighter in Connecticut earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Connecticut a good state for firefighters? ▼
Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for firefighter pay. The cost of living index is 112% of the national average. Entry-level firefighters earn $35,840, while senior professionals earn $91,840.
How does Connecticut compare to other states for firefighter salary? ▼
The highest paying state for firefighters is Hawaii at $87,856. Connecticut's median of $57,882 ranks #8 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Jersey ($59,432) and Washington ($59,432).
What is the entry-level firefighter salary in Connecticut? ▼
An entry-level firefighter in Connecticut earns approximately $35,840 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $58,240. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $91,840.
What city in Connecticut pays firefighters the most? ▼
Stamford is the highest paying city in Connecticut for firefighters, with a median salary of $71,318. Other cities include Bridgeport and New Haven.