Average Firefighters Salary in Burlington, NC
Firefighters in Burlington, NC, earn an average annual salary of $40,220. This figure is slightly below the national average of $43,380, suggesting that local economic factors and demand play a significant role in compensation within this vital profession. While the nominal salary may be lower than the national benchmark, understanding the local context is crucial for a complete picture.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $40,220 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 15.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $60,470.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 200 firefighters and a Location Quotient of 1.34, Burlington exhibits a concentration of this profession that is 34% higher than the national average. This indicates a robust local demand and a specialized job market for firefighters, suggesting a stable outlook for those in the field within the city.
Salary Overview
The average Firefighters in Burlington, NC earns-7.3%below the national average.
$19.3
$773
$3,352
Firefighters Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Burlington's firefighter salaries over the past four years is not provided, it is generally assumed that compensation for essential services like firefighting has seen a steady, albeit modest, upward trend. This growth is typically driven by inflation, increased demand for services, and evolving professional standards, ensuring that firefighters' earnings keep pace with the cost of living and industry advancements.
Firefighters Salary Distribution in Burlington, NC
The salary progression for firefighters in Burlington, like elsewhere, is typically tied to experience and specialization. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with extensive training, certifications, and leadership roles can expect significantly higher earnings. The percentile gaps in salary data would clearly signify this career trajectory, rewarding dedication and skill development.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $29,040 | $14 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $30,165 | $14.5 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $36,780 | $17.7 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $50,275 | $24.2 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $60,470 | $29.1 |
Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$40,220
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$40,220
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average firefighter salary of $40,220 in Burlington, NC, aligns precisely with the national average cost of living, which is indexed at 100. This means that the purchasing power of a firefighter's income in Burlington is comparable to that of a firefighter earning the national average in a typical U.S. city, offering a balanced financial landscape.
Job Market Context
200
Total Jobs
2.884
Per 1K Jobs
1.34
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.34, Burlington, NC has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Firefighters roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.34 signifies that firefighters are more concentrated in Burlington, NC, than the national average. This suggests a potentially competitive job market for new entrants but also indicates a strong, established presence of the profession, which can translate to job security and opportunities for advancement for experienced individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Firefighters
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Greensboro-High Point, NC Firefighters Salary | $50,150↑ 25% | 20 mi |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC Firefighters Salary | $42,350↑ 5% | 32 mi |
| Eastern North Carolina nonmetropolitan area Firefighters Salary | $43,560↑ 8% | 36 mi |
| Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area Firefighters Salary | $33,060↓ 18% | 36 mi |
| Central North Carolina nonmetropolitan area Firefighters Salary | $37,720↓ 6% | 36 mi |
Comparing salaries near Burlington, NC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Firefighters make in Burlington, NC?
The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Burlington, NC is $40,220. This typically ranges from $29,040 for entry-level positions to $60,470 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Burlington, NC is 7.3% lower than the national median of $43,380.
Is Burlington, NC a lucrative place for Firefighters?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $40,220 is below the national average of $43,380, although the cost of living is on par with the national average.
Is Burlington, NC a good place to live for Firefighters?
The Cost of Living Index in Burlington, NC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Burlington, NC?
Some top paying nearby cities include Greensboro-High Point, NC ($50,150) and Durham-Chapel Hill, NC.
How does Burlington's firefighter salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for firefighters in Burlington, NC, is $40,220, which is slightly lower than the national average of $43,380.
What is the concentration of firefighters in Burlington, NC?
Burlington has a higher concentration of firefighters than the national average, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.34.
How does the cost of living in Burlington affect firefighter salaries?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Burlington's cost of living is exactly at the national average, meaning the $40,220 salary has average purchasing power.
What does the total local workforce number imply for firefighters?
A total local workforce of 200 firefighters suggests a moderately sized, established group within the city, indicating a stable job market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 200 employees in the Burlington, NC area with a job density of 2.884 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 Burlington, NC