Average Fire Inspectors and Investigators Salary in Washington
Fire Inspectors and Investigators in Washington earn a commanding average annual salary of $112,580, significantly outpacing the national average of $76,450. This substantial difference is largely attributed to Washington's robust economy and the specialized nature of fire safety regulations, which necessitate highly skilled professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $112,580 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 16.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $143,130.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 330 professionals and a Location Quotient of 1.02, the job market for Fire Inspectors and Investigators in Washington indicates a stable and slightly above-average concentration of these roles. This suggests consistent demand for their expertise within the state's regulatory and safety frameworks.
Salary Overview
The average Fire Inspectors and Investigators in Washington earns+47.3%above the national average.
$54.1
$2,165
$9,382
Fire Inspectors and Investigators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Fire Inspectors and Investigators in Washington have experienced steady growth over the past four years. This trend is generally driven by increasing safety standards, evolving building codes, and the ongoing need for qualified professionals to ensure compliance and public safety.
Fire Inspectors and Investigators Salary Distribution in Washington
Career progression for Fire Inspectors and Investigators typically involves a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized certifications can command salaries well above the average, reflecting their deeper knowledge and proven track record.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $76,840 | $36.9 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $84,435 | $40.6 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $116,950 | $56.2 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $140,725 | $67.7 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $143,130 | $68.8 |
Detailed Fire Inspectors and Investigators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$112,580
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$97,811
Adjusted for COL (115.1)
The average annual salary of $112,580 in Washington presents a strong nominal income. However, with a Cost of Living Index of 115.1, which is 15.1% higher than the national average, the purchasing power of this salary is somewhat tempered. While still a high earner, individuals should factor in the increased expenses for housing, goods, and services when considering relocation.
Job Market Context
330
Total Jobs
0.093
Per 1K Jobs
1.02
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.02, Washington has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Fire Inspectors and Investigators roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.02 signifies that Fire Inspectors and Investigators are employed in Washington at a rate very close to the national average. This suggests a balanced job market where opportunities exist, but the field is not overly saturated, indicating a healthy level of competition and demand for skilled professionals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Fire Inspectors and Investigators
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA Fire Inspectors and Investigators Salary | $116,640↑ 4% | 42 mi |
Comparing salaries near Washington
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Fire Inspectors and Investigators make in Washington?
The median annual salary for a Fire Inspectors and Investigators in Washington is $112,580. This typically ranges from $76,840 for entry-level positions to $143,130 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Washington is 47.3% higher than the national median of $76,450.
Is Washington a lucrative place for Fire Inspectors and Investigators?
Yes, Washington offers a highly lucrative environment for Fire Inspectors and Investigators.The average salary significantly exceeds the national average, and while the cost of living is higher, the nominal income provides substantial earning potential.
Is Washington a good place to live for Fire Inspectors and Investigators?
The Cost of Living Index in Washington is 115.1. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Washington?
Some top paying nearby cities include Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($116,640) and others.
What is the average salary for a Fire Inspector in Washington?
The average annual salary for Fire Inspectors and Investigators in Washington is $112,580.
How does Washington's salary compare to the national average?
Fire Inspectors and Investigators in Washington earn approximately $36,130 more annually than the national average of $76,450.
What is the cost of living in Washington compared to the national average?
Washington has a Cost of Living Index of 115.1, meaning it is 15.1% more expensive to live there than the national average.
How concentrated is the job market for Fire Inspectors in Washington?
The job market is slightly more concentrated than the national average, with a Location Quotient of 1.02, indicating a stable demand for these professionals.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 330 employees in the Washington area with a job density of 0.093 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Fire Inspectors and Investigators • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Washington