Average Firefighters Salary in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC
Firefighters in the Durham-Chapel Hill, NC area earn an average annual salary of $42,350. This figure is slightly below the national average of $43,380, a difference often influenced by regional economic factors and the specific demands of the local fire departments. Understanding these local dynamics is crucial for assessing compensation in this vital profession.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $42,350 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 21.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $58,690.
- Outlook: The Durham-Chapel Hill region supports a robust workforce of 1,210 firefighters, indicating a significant presence in the local job market. With a Location Quotient of 1.64, the concentration of these roles is notably higher than the national average, suggesting strong local demand and a potentially stable job outlook for dedicated professionals in this field.
Salary Overview
The average Firefighters in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC earns-2.4%below the national average.
$20.4
$814
$3,529
Firefighters Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume that firefighter salaries in Durham-Chapel Hill have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by factors such as inflation, increased demand for services, and evolving professional standards within the firefighting community.
Firefighters Salary Distribution in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC
Salary progression for firefighters in Durham-Chapel Hill typically scales with experience and specialization. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with advanced certifications and leadership roles can expect significantly higher compensation. The widening gap between entry-level and senior percentile salaries reflects a clear career ladder and opportunities for advancement.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $30,390 | $14.6 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $31,763 | $15.3 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $37,860 | $18.2 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $52,938 | $25.5 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $58,690 | $28.2 |
Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$42,350
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$42,350
Adjusted for COL (100)
With an average annual salary of $42,350 and a Cost of Living Index of 100, the nominal earnings for firefighters in Durham-Chapel Hill align precisely with the national average cost of living. This means that the purchasing power of a firefighter's salary in this area is neither significantly enhanced nor diminished by the local cost of goods and services compared to the national benchmark.
Job Market Context
1,210
Total Jobs
3.537
Per 1K Jobs
1.64
Location Quotient
Durham-Chapel Hill, NC has 1.6x 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.
The Location Quotient of 1.64 for firefighters in Durham-Chapel Hill signifies a market where this profession is more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a higher demand relative to the general workforce, potentially leading to more job opportunities and a competitive environment for skilled individuals seeking employment in this sector.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Firefighters
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Raleigh-Cary, NC Firefighters Salary | $46,310↑ 9% | 18 mi |
| Burlington, NC Firefighters Salary | $40,220↓ 5% | 32 mi |
| Greensboro-High Point, NC Firefighters Salary | $50,150↑ 18% | 52 mi |
| Eastern North Carolina nonmetropolitan area Firefighters Salary | $43,560↑ 3% | 56 mi |
| Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area Firefighters Salary | $33,060↓ 22% | 56 mi |
Comparing salaries near Durham-Chapel Hill, NC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Firefighters make in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC?
The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC is $42,350. This typically ranges from $30,390 for entry-level positions to $58,690 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC is 2.4% lower than the national median of $43,380.
Is Durham-Chapel Hill, NC a lucrative place for Firefighters?
No, not significantly more lucrative than the national average.While the average salary of $42,350 is competitive, it is slightly below the national average. However, the cost of living is exactly at the national average, making the purchasing power comparable.
Is Durham-Chapel Hill, NC a good place to live for Firefighters?
The Cost of Living Index in Durham-Chapel Hill, NC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Durham-Chapel Hill, NC?
Some top paying nearby cities include Raleigh-Cary, NC ($46,310) and Burlington, NC.
How does the number of firefighters in Durham-Chapel Hill compare nationally?
With 1,210 firefighters, Durham-Chapel Hill has a substantial local workforce. The Location Quotient of 1.64 indicates a higher concentration of firefighters relative to the national average, suggesting a strong local presence.
What does a Location Quotient of 1.64 mean for firefighters in Durham-Chapel Hill?
A Location Quotient of 1.64 means that firefighters are employed in Durham-Chapel Hill at a rate 64% higher than the national average. This points to a robust demand for their services in the region.
How does the cost of living affect a firefighter's salary in Durham-Chapel Hill?
The Cost of Living Index is 100, which is the national average. This means that the average salary of $42,350 provides purchasing power equivalent to the national average, without being significantly boosted or hindered by local expenses.
Are there many job opportunities for firefighters in Durham-Chapel Hill?
The data suggests a healthy job market. The concentration (LQ of 1.64) and the number of jobs per 1,000 workers (3.537) indicate a solid demand for firefighters in the area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,210 employees in the Durham-Chapel Hill, NC area with a job density of 3.537 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 Durham-Chapel Hill, NC