How much do firefighters get paid in CA?

In California, firefighter salaries range from approximately $44,307 to $61,778 annually, with a median salary of about $52,582. This reflects the varying pay scales based on experience and location.

In California, the average annual salary for a firefighter is approximately $58,167, based on data collected from 660 job postings on Indeed over the past 36 months, with the most recent update occurring on June 30, 2025. This figure reflects the earnings of firefighters across various regions in the state, which can vary significantly due to factors such as location, experience, and the specific fire department's budget. For instance, firefighters in urban areas or those working for larger departments may earn higher salaries compared to their counterparts in rural regions. Additionally, firefighters often receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay, which can enhance their overall compensation package. As a result, while the average salary provides a general idea, individual earnings can differ widely based on these variables.