Firefighter Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median firefighter salary in Durham, NC is $49,096 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Firefighter Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median firefighter salary of $49,096, which is $1,550 above the North Carolina state average of $47,546. Compared to the national median of $51,680, Durham pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Durham's cost of living is 95% 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 Durham spans from $28,120 at the 10th percentile to $88,160 at the 90th percentile — a $60,040 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $30,400, while senior firefighters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $77,900. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Firefighter Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level firefighter earns around $30,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $77,900 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,120 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,670 |
| Median (50th) | $49,096 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,160 |
Firefighter Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Firefighter in Durham
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina 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 Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Durham
Browse open firefighter positions in Durham, NC: