Firefighter Salary in Pennsylvania
The median firefighter salary in Pennsylvania is $49,613 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $51,680.
Firefighter Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for firefighter compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for firefighter pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $49,613 per year, firefighters in Pennsylvania earn $2,067 less than the national median of $51,680.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning firefighter salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: firefighters at the 10th percentile earn $28,416, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $89,088 — a $60,672 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $52,714.
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 Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level firefighter earns around $30,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,720 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,416 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,056 |
| Median (50th) | $49,613 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,352 |
| 90th Percentile | $89,088 |
Firefighter Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for firefighters in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Firefighter in Pennsylvania
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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