Firefighter Salary in Missouri
The median firefighter salary in Missouri is $45,478 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $51,680.
Firefighter Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for firefighter compensation. Firefighter salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $45,478 per year, firefighters in Missouri earn $6,202 less than the national median of $51,680.
A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $45,478 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $51,680 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Missouri is significant: firefighters at the 10th percentile earn $26,048, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $81,664 — a $55,616 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $47,546.
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 Missouri by Experience
In Missouri, an entry-level firefighter earns around $28,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,160 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Missouri
| Percentile | MO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,048 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,968 |
| Median (50th) | $45,478 |
| 75th Percentile | $62,656 |
| 90th Percentile | $81,664 |
Firefighter Salary by City in Missouri
The largest employment areas for firefighters in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Firefighter in Missouri
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Missouri
Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Missouri's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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