Public Service Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Firefighter Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median firefighter salary in Chicago, IL is $55,298 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$55,298
vs State Avg
+$6,202
vs National
+$3,618
Cost of Living
107%

Firefighter Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level firefighter earns around $34,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,740 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$34,240
+$2,240 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$55,640
+$3,640 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$87,740
+$5,740 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $31,672
25th Percentile $41,302
Median (50th) $55,298
75th Percentile $76,184
90th Percentile $99,296

Firefighter Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$55,814
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$49,096
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$43,928
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$42,378
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Firefighter in Chicago

Education

Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

FirefightingEmergency MedicalHazmatPhysical FitnessTeamworkEquipment Operation

Job Outlook

Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.