Firefighter Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median firefighter salary in Raleigh, NC is $50,646 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Firefighter Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median firefighter salary of $50,646, which is $3,100 above the North Carolina state average of $47,546. Compared to the national median of $51,680, Raleigh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Raleigh's cost of living is 98% 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 Raleigh spans from $29,008 at the 10th percentile to $90,944 at the 90th percentile — a $61,936 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $31,360, while senior firefighters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $80,360. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Firefighter Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level firefighter earns around $31,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,360 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,008 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,828 |
| Median (50th) | $50,646 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,776 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,944 |
Firefighter Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Firefighter in Raleigh
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Raleigh 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 Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open firefighter positions in Raleigh, NC: