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Firefighter/EMT I Salary in the United States

How much does a Firefighter/EMT I make in the United States?

As of October 01, 2026, the average salary for a Firefighter/EMT I in the United States is $45,300 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $22.

However, a Firefighter/EMT I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $53,133
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $40,000 to $49,400
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $35,175

Key Factors That Influence Firefighter/EMT I Salaries

A Firefighter/EMT I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

Top Paying Cities for Firefighter/EMT Is

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $57,100
  • San Francisco: $56,500
  • Oakland: $55,300

Firefighter/EMT I Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Firefighter/EMT I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $49,380. While startup companies pay approximate $41,983.

Firefighter/EMT I Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $41,983
Growth Stage 51~500 $44,351
Established 501~5000 $47,728
Enterprise 5000+ $49,380

Firefighter/EMT I Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For Firefighter/EMT I roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, Business Services, offers compensation 20% above the average. Conversely, Firefighter/EMT positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Firefighter/EMT I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industry for a Firefighter/EMT I

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Business Services$54,360$26.020%

Firefighter/EMT I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Firefighter/EMT I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on October 01, 2026
$40,000
Average $45,300/year
$49,400
$3,333
Average $3,775/month
$4,117
$769
Average $871/week
$950
$19
Average $22/hour
$24
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $49,400 $4,117 $950 $24
Average $45,300 $3,775 $871 $22
25th Percentile $40,000 $3,333 $769 $19

Firefighter/EMT I Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Firefighter/EMT I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Firefighter/EMT I Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Firefighter/EMT II $62,770 39%
Critical Care Paramedic $48,200 6%
Police or Sheriff's Patrol Sergeant $83,600 85%

Most common benefits for Firefighter/EMT I

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Firefighter/EMT I

Here are companies hiring for Firefighter/EMT I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Firefighter/EMT I

1. What industry pays the highest salary for Firefighter/EMT I?

The Business Services industry offers the highest average compensation for Firefighter/EMT I roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.

2. How many hours do firefighters work?

Firefighters typically work 24-hour shifts every other day, totaling five days of work followed by four days off. In California, this schedule allows for a balance between work and rest. The salary for a Firefighter/EMT ranges from $44,200 to $61,700, with a mid-range salary of $52,500, reflecting the demanding nature of the job.

3. Why don't EMTs get paid a lot?

Many EMS agencies operate under tight budgets, often funded by local governments or private companies. This financial constraint, along with the need to negotiate reimbursements from insurance providers, can lead to lower salaries for EMTs and paramedics. For instance, salaries typically range from $44,200 to $61,700, with a median around $52,500.

4. How much is an EMT paid in America?

In America, the salary for a Firefighter/EMT typically ranges from $44,200 to $61,700 per year. The average salary is around $52,500. This means that while entry-level positions may start at $44,200, experienced professionals can earn significantly more, reflecting the critical nature of their work.

5. Can EMTs make a living?

Yes, EMTs can make a living. In the US, a Firefighter/EMT's salary ranges from $44,200 to $61,700 annually, with a mid-salary of $52,500. This can vary based on qualifications, experience, and location. Pursuing certification can enhance earning potential and career opportunities.

6. What first responders make the most money?

First responders with high salaries include roles like Medical Examiner, with earnings ranging from $64,000 to $268,500 annually. Firefighters/EMTs earn between $44,200 and $61,700, while positions like Police Captain and Incident Response Manager can make between $87,000 and $172,000. These roles reflect the diverse earning potential in emergency services.

7. How much do firefighters with EMT make?

Firefighters with EMT certification typically earn between $44,200 and $61,700 annually, with a median salary of $52,500. While some states, like California, report salaries around $58,826, the overall range reflects varying pay scales across different regions.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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