Firefighter Salary in Athens, Georgia
The median firefighter salary in Athens, GA is $46,512 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.2% below the Georgia state average.
Firefighter Pay in Athens: What to Expect (2026)
Athens offers a median firefighter salary of $46,512, which is $1,550 below the Georgia state average of $48,062. Compared to the national median of $51,680, Athens pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Athens's cost of living is 90% 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 Athens spans from $26,640 at the 10th percentile to $83,520 at the 90th percentile — a $56,880 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $28,800, while senior firefighters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $73,800. With a population of 127,064, Athens is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Firefighter Salary in Athens by Experience
In Athens, an entry-level firefighter earns around $28,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $73,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Athens, GA
| Percentile | Athens |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,640 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,740 |
| Median (50th) | $46,512 |
| 75th Percentile | $64,080 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,520 |
Firefighter Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Firefighter in Athens
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Athens and the surrounding Georgia 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 Athens may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Athens
Browse open firefighter positions in Athens, GA: