As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Firefighter in Hickory, NC is $57,607 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.
However, a Firefighter's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Firefighter's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, skills and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Agility | 5.01% |
| CPR | 5.28% |
| Hydraulics | 1.79% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Risk Management
|
$60,487 |
5%
|
|
Innovation
|
$59,911 |
4%
|
|
Analysis
|
$59,335 |
3%
|
|
Leadership
|
$59,335 |
3%
|
|
Accountability
|
$59,335 |
3%
|
|
Dedication
|
$58,759 |
2%
|
For Firefighter roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 70% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Energy & Utilities and Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 40% above the average. In contrast, Firefighter positions in Software & Networking or Business Services typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Firefighter as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy & Utilities | $80,650 | $39.0 | 40% |
| Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit | $63,368 | $30.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Firefighter'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 August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Firefighter job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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