Firefighter Salary in Bowling Green, Kentucky
The median firefighter salary in Bowling Green, KY is $43,411 per year, which is 16% below the national median and 3.4% below the Kentucky state average.
Firefighter Pay in Bowling Green: What to Expect (2026)
Bowling Green offers a median firefighter salary of $43,411, which is $1,551 below the Kentucky state average of $44,962. Compared to the national median of $51,680, Bowling Green pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Bowling Green's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 84% of the national average. This means the $43,411 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $51,680 in an average-cost city. This makes Bowling Green an attractive option for firefighters seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for firefighters in Bowling Green spans from $24,864 at the 10th percentile to $77,952 at the 90th percentile — a $53,088 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $26,880, while senior firefighters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $68,880. Bowling Green is a smaller market (pop. 74,735), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Firefighter Salary in Bowling Green by Experience
In Bowling Green, an entry-level firefighter earns around $26,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,880 per year. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Bowling Green, KY
| Percentile | Bowling Green |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,864 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,424 |
| Median (50th) | $43,411 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,808 |
| 90th Percentile | $77,952 |
Firefighter Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Firefighter in Bowling Green
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Bowling Green and the surrounding Kentucky 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 Bowling Green may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Bowling Green
Browse open firefighter positions in Bowling Green, KY: