Average Firefighters Salary in Baton Rouge, LA
Firefighters in Baton Rouge, LA earn an average annual salary of $38,590. This figure is notably below the national average of $43,380, suggesting that local economic factors and demand dynamics may influence compensation in this vital public service role within the state capital.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $38,590 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 25.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $50,080.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 960 individuals, Baton Rouge demonstrates a stable employment base for firefighters. The location quotient of 1.1 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a consistent, albeit not overwhelmingly high, demand for firefighting professionals in the region.
Salary Overview
The average Firefighters in Baton Rouge, LA earns-11.0%below the national average.
$18.6
$742
$3,216
Firefighters Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that firefighter salaries in Baton Rouge have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring general trends in public service compensation and inflation adjustments. This suggests a steady, albeit potentially modest, upward trajectory for earnings in the profession.
Firefighters Salary Distribution in Baton Rouge, LA
Career progression for firefighters in Baton Rouge typically involves salary increases tied to experience and rank. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while senior firefighters with extensive experience and specialized skills can expect to earn significantly more, with percentile gaps reflecting these advancements and responsibilities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $27,010 | $13 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $28,943 | $13.9 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $35,350 | $17 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $48,238 | $23.2 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $50,080 | $24.1 |
Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$38,590
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$38,590
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average firefighter salary of $38,590 in Baton Rouge aligns precisely with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that salary is effectively on par with the national standard, offering a balanced financial landscape for residents.
Job Market Context
960
Total Jobs
2.38
Per 1K Jobs
1.1
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.10, Baton Rouge, LA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Firefighters roles compared to the national norm.
A location quotient of 1.1 for firefighters in Baton Rouge signifies a job market that is slightly more concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while the profession is well-established, the market is not oversaturated, offering a competitive yet accessible environment for both new entrants and experienced professionals seeking opportunities.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Firefighters
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Hammond, LA Firefighters Salary | $29,530↓ 23% | 40 mi |
| Lafayette, LA Firefighters Salary | $37,930↓ 2% | 56 mi |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux, LA Firefighters Salary | $35,350↓ 8% | 65 mi |
| Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area Firefighters Salary | $31,510↓ 18% | 67 mi |
| Central Louisiana nonmetropolitan area Firefighters Salary | $33,370↓ 14% | 67 mi |
Comparing salaries near Baton Rouge, LA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Firefighters make in Baton Rouge, LA?
The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Baton Rouge, LA is $38,590. This typically ranges from $27,010 for entry-level positions to $50,080 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Baton Rouge, LA is 11.0% lower than the national median of $43,380.
Is Baton Rouge, LA a lucrative place for Firefighters?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $38,590 is below the national average of $43,380, though the cost of living is on par, making the effective purchasing power comparable.
Is Baton Rouge, LA a good place to live for Firefighters?
The Cost of Living Index in Baton Rouge, LA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Baton Rouge, LA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Hammond, LA ($29,530) and Lafayette, LA.
How does Baton Rouge's firefighter salary compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Baton Rouge earn an average of $38,590 annually, which is less than the national average of $43,380.
What is the concentration of firefighters in Baton Rouge compared to the rest of the US?
Baton Rouge has a location quotient of 1.1 for firefighters, indicating a slightly higher concentration of these jobs than the national average.
How does the cost of living in Baton Rouge affect firefighter salaries?
With a cost of living index of 100, the national average, the $38,590 salary in Baton Rouge offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being a lower nominal figure.
What is the total number of firefighters employed in Baton Rouge?
There are approximately 960 firefighters employed in Baton Rouge, LA.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 960 employees in the Baton Rouge, LA area with a job density of 2.38 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Firefighters • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA