Firefighter Salary in Chesapeake, Virginia
The median firefighter salary in Chesapeake, VA is $50,646 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 5.8% below the Virginia state average.
Firefighter Pay in Chesapeake: What to Expect (2026)
Chesapeake offers a median firefighter salary of $50,646, which is $3,101 below the Virginia state average of $53,747. Compared to the national median of $51,680, Chesapeake pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Chesapeake'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 Chesapeake 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 249,422, Chesapeake is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Firefighter Salary in Chesapeake by Experience
In Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake, VA
| Percentile | Chesapeake |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,008 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,828 |
| Median (50th) | $50,646 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,776 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,944 |
Firefighter Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Firefighter in Chesapeake
Education
Most firefighter positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Chesapeake and the surrounding Virginia 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 Chesapeake may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Chesapeake
Browse open firefighter positions in Chesapeake, VA: