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Average Firefighters Salary in Alaska

Firefighters in Alaska earn an impressive average annual salary of $59,730, substantially exceeding the national average of $43,380. This elevated compensation is largely driven by the unique demands and operational challenges inherent in serving a state with vast distances, extreme weather conditions, and a specialized infrastructure requirement for emergency services.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $59,730 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 4.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $87,940.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,040 individuals and a Location Quotient of 1.51, Alaska demonstrates a notable concentration of firefighters relative to the national average. This suggests a robust and potentially growing demand for these essential professionals, indicating a stable job market for those entering or established in the field within the state.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$59,730

The average Firefighters in Alaska earns+37.7%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$28.7

Weekly

$1,149

Monthly

$4,978

Firefighters Salary Distribution in Alaska

Salary progression for firefighters in Alaska, as in most regions, is typically tied to experience and specialization. Entry-level positions will command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with advanced certifications, leadership roles, or specialized rescue skills can expect significantly higher earnings. The percentile gaps in salary data would clearly illustrate this career advancement path.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period.10% (Entry)$31,600$15.2
OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls.25% (Junior)$44,798$21.5
Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit.50% (Median)$63,220$30.4
Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader.75% (Senior)$74,663$35.9
Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration.90% (Expert)$87,940$42.3

Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$59,730

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$47,180

Adjusted for COL (126.6)

The average firefighter salary of $59,730 in Alaska must be considered alongside its Cost of Living Index of 126.6. While the nominal salary is attractive, the higher cost of goods and services in Alaska means that the purchasing power of this salary is somewhat diminished compared to lower-cost states, requiring careful financial planning for residents.

Job Market Context

1,040

Total Jobs

3.254

Per 1K Jobs

1.51

Location Quotient

Major Hub

Alaska has 1.5x the national concentration of Firefighters jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.

A Location Quotient of 1.51 indicates that firefighters are 51% more concentrated in Alaska than the national average. This suggests a market where demand may outpace supply in certain areas, potentially leading to competitive hiring practices and a strong negotiating position for qualified candidates, though it also implies a well-established professional community.

Nearby Job Markets

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Firefighters make in Alaska?

The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Alaska is $59,730. This typically ranges from $31,600 for entry-level positions to $87,940 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Alaska is 37.7% higher than the national median of $43,380.

Is Alaska a lucrative place for Firefighters?

Yes, Alaska offers a lucrative environment for Firefighters.The average salary is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting the demanding conditions and specialized needs of the state. However, the higher cost of living should also be factored into overall financial well-being.

Is Alaska a good place to live for Firefighters?

The Cost of Living Index in Alaska is 126.6. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

How does the Alaska firefighter salary compare to the national average?

The average annual salary for firefighters in Alaska is $59,730, which is considerably higher than the national average of $43,380.

What is the concentration of firefighters in Alaska?

Alaska has a higher concentration of firefighters than the national average, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.51, meaning they are 51% more prevalent per worker.

How does the cost of living affect the firefighter salary in Alaska?

With a Cost of Living Index of 126.6, Alaska is more expensive than the national average. This means the higher salary is partially offset by increased living expenses.

What is the total number of firefighters employed in Alaska?

There are approximately 1,040 firefighters employed within Alaska, representing a significant portion of the state's workforce in this critical service sector.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,040 employees in the Alaska area with a job density of 3.254 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.

Semantic Salary Analysis for Firefighters • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Alaska