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Average Firefighters Salary in Anchorage, AK

Firefighters in Anchorage, Alaska, earn an impressive average annual salary of $56,300, significantly surpassing the national average of $43,380. This elevated compensation is likely influenced by the unique demands and potential hazards associated with serving a geographically diverse and sometimes challenging environment like Alaska.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $56,300 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 3.3% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $75,530.
  • Outlook: Anchorage's firefighter job market demonstrates a healthy concentration, with a Location Quotient of 1.28 indicating a higher presence of these professionals compared to the national average. Supported by a local workforce of 480 individuals in this role, the demand appears robust and stable within the region.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$56,300

The average Firefighters in Anchorage, AK earns+29.8%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$27.1

Weekly

$1,083

Monthly

$4,692

Firefighters Salary Distribution in Anchorage, AK

The salary progression for firefighters in Anchorage, as in most regions, typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period.10% (Entry)$28,580$13.7
OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls.25% (Junior)$42,225$20.3
Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit.50% (Median)$63,360$30.5
Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader.75% (Senior)$70,375$33.8
Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration.90% (Expert)$75,530$36.3

Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$56,300

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$56,300

Adjusted for COL (100)

With an average annual salary of $56,300 and a Cost of Living Index precisely at the national average of 100, Anchorage presents a financially neutral relocation prospect for firefighters. The nominal salary effectively translates to purchasing power that aligns with the rest of the country, meaning your earnings will go as far in Anchorage as they would nationally.

Job Market Context

480

Total Jobs

2.753

Per 1K Jobs

1.28

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.28, Anchorage, AK has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Firefighters roles compared to the national norm.

The Location Quotient of 1.28 for firefighters in Anchorage suggests a market where this profession is more concentrated than the national average. This indicates a potentially competitive environment for new entrants but also signifies a strong, established demand for skilled firefighters within the local emergency services infrastructure.

Nearby Job Markets

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Firefighters make in Anchorage, AK?

The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Anchorage, AK is $56,300. This typically ranges from $28,580 for entry-level positions to $75,530 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Anchorage, AK is 29.8% higher than the national median of $43,380.

Is Anchorage, AK a lucrative place for Firefighters?

Yes, it offers above-average compensation.Firefighters in Anchorage earn $56,300 annually, which is considerably higher than the national average. This higher pay is balanced by a Cost of Living Index that matches the national average, making it a financially sound location.

Is Anchorage, AK a good place to live for Firefighters?

The Cost of Living Index in Anchorage, AK is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

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

The average annual salary for firefighters in Anchorage, AK is $56,300, which is approximately 30% higher than the national average of $43,380.

What is the concentration of firefighters in Anchorage compared to the rest of the US?

Anchorage has a Location Quotient of 1.28, meaning the concentration of firefighters is 28% higher than the national average, indicating a stronger presence in the local job market.

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

The Cost of Living Index in Anchorage is 100, which is the national average. This means the higher salary of $56,300 offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, without being significantly eroded by higher living expenses.

What is the total number of firefighters employed in Anchorage?

There are approximately 480 firefighters employed in Anchorage, AK, contributing to the local workforce in this essential 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 480 employees in the Anchorage, AK area with a job density of 2.753 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.