Firefighter Salary in Illinois
The median firefighter salary in Illinois is $49,096 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $51,680.
Firefighter Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for firefighter compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for firefighter pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $49,096 per year, firefighters in Illinois earn $2,584 less than the national median of $51,680.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning firefighter salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: firefighters at the 10th percentile earn $28,120, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $88,160 — a $60,040 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $55,814.
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 Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level firefighter earns around $30,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $77,900 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,120 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,670 |
| Median (50th) | $49,096 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,160 |
Firefighter Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for firefighters in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Firefighter in Illinois
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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