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Average Firefighters Salary in Arkansas

Firefighters in Arkansas earn an average annual salary of $43,870, which is slightly higher than the national average of $43,380. This competitive pay reflects the essential nature of the role and the specific economic conditions within the state, balancing operational costs with the need to attract skilled professionals to this vital public service.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $43,870 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 10.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $63,930.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 2,280 firefighters and a Location Quotient of 0.82, Arkansas demonstrates a stable, albeit slightly below-average concentration of this profession compared to the national landscape. The figure of 1.765 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a consistent demand for firefighting services, indicating a steady job market for those in this field within the state.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$43,870

The average Firefighters in Arkansas earns+1.1%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$21.1

Weekly

$844

Monthly

$3,656

Firefighters Salary Distribution in Arkansas

Salary progression for firefighters in Arkansas typically scales with experience and specialization. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with advanced certifications, leadership roles, or specialized skills can expect significantly higher compensation. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify career progression opportunities, rewarding dedication and expertise within the field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period.10% (Entry)$28,600$13.8
OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls.25% (Junior)$32,903$15.8
Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit.50% (Median)$42,100$20.2
Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader.75% (Senior)$54,838$26.4
Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration.90% (Expert)$63,930$30.7

Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$43,870

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$48,583

Adjusted for COL (90.3)

The average firefighter salary of $43,870 in Arkansas presents a favorable financial standing when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 90.3. This index, being below the national average of 100, suggests that the nominal salary offers a relatively strong purchasing power, allowing for a comfortable standard of living for those in the profession.

Job Market Context

2,280

Total Jobs

1.765

Per 1K Jobs

0.82

Location Quotient

Below Average

Arkansas has 0.82x the national average concentration of Firefighters jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

The Location Quotient of 0.82 indicates that firefighters are slightly less concentrated in Arkansas compared to the national average. This suggests that while the profession is well-established, the job market may not be oversaturated, potentially offering good opportunities for qualified individuals seeking employment without facing intense competition typically seen in areas with a higher LQ.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Firefighters

CitySalaryDist.
Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR Firefighters Salary$50,270↑ 15%17 mi
Hot Springs, AR Firefighters Salary$33,660↓ 23%51 mi

Comparing salaries near Arkansas

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Firefighters make in Arkansas?

The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Arkansas is $43,870. This typically ranges from $28,600 for entry-level positions to $63,930 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Arkansas is 1.1% higher than the national median of $43,380.

Is Arkansas a lucrative place for Firefighters?

Yes, moderately.Arkansas firefighters earn slightly above the national average salary, and the lower cost of living enhances their purchasing power, making it a financially sound location.

Is Arkansas a good place to live for Firefighters?

With a Cost of Living Index of 90.3 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.

Where are the highest paying cities near Arkansas?

Some top paying nearby cities include Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR ($50,270) and Hot Springs, AR.

What is the average salary for a Firefighter in Arkansas?

The average annual salary for a Firefighter in Arkansas is $43,870.

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

The average salary in Arkansas ($43,870) is slightly higher than the national average ($43,380).

What is the Cost of Living in Arkansas compared to the national average?

Arkansas has a Cost of Living Index of 90.3, which is below the national average of 100, indicating a more affordable lifestyle.

How concentrated is the firefighter profession in Arkansas?

The Location Quotient for firefighters in Arkansas is 0.82, meaning the profession is slightly less concentrated than the national average.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 2,280 employees in the Arkansas area with a job density of 1.765 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 Arkansas