Public Service Texas (TX) Rank #30 of 50

Firefighter Salary in Texas

The median firefighter salary in Texas is $47,546 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $51,680.

Median Salary
$47,546
vs National
$-4,134
State Rank
#30 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Firefighter Salary Overview in Texas (2026)

Texas ranks #30 out of 50 states for firefighter compensation. Firefighter salaries in Texas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $47,546 per year, firefighters in Texas earn $4,134 less than the national median of $51,680.

A key advantage of working in Texas is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $47,546 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $51,680 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Texas is significant: firefighters at the 10th percentile earn $27,232, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $85,376 — a $58,144 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Texas for this role is Austin, where the median reaches $54,264.

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 Texas by Experience

In Texas, an entry-level firefighter earns around $29,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,440 per year. The cost of living index in Texas is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$29,440
$-2,560 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$47,840
$-4,160 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$75,440
$-6,560 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Texas

Percentile TX Salary
10th Percentile $27,232
25th Percentile $35,512
Median (50th) $47,546
75th Percentile $65,504
90th Percentile $85,376

Firefighter Salary by City in Texas

The largest employment areas for firefighters in Texas include Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Firefighter in Texas

Education

Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Texas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

FirefightingEmergency MedicalHazmatPhysical FitnessTeamworkEquipment Operation

Job Outlook in Texas

Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Texas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Firefighter Salary in Texas

How much does a Firefighter make in Texas? ▼
The median firefighter salary in Texas is $47,546 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $51,680. Salaries range from $27,232 (10th percentile) to $85,376 (90th percentile).
How much does a Firefighter make per hour in Texas? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $47,546, a firefighter in Texas earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Texas a good state for firefighters? ▼
Texas ranks #30 out of 50 states for firefighter pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level firefighters earn $29,440, while senior professionals earn $75,440.
How does Texas compare to other states for firefighter salary? ▼
The highest paying state for firefighters is Hawaii at $87,856. Texas's median of $47,546 ranks #30 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Mexico ($48,062) and North Carolina ($47,546).
What is the entry-level firefighter salary in Texas? ▼
An entry-level firefighter in Texas earns approximately $29,440 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $47,840. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $75,440.
What city in Texas pays firefighters the most? ▼
Austin is the highest paying city in Texas for firefighters, with a median salary of $54,264. Other cities include Houston and Dallas.