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Average Firefighters Salary in Fresno, CA

Firefighters in Fresno, CA, earn an impressive average annual salary of $73,990, significantly surpassing the national average of $43,380. This higher compensation in Fresno can be attributed to the specific demands and responsibilities inherent in the role within this region, alongside local economic factors that influence pay scales for essential public service positions.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $73,990 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 8.7% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $104,620.
  • Outlook: The firefighter job market in Fresno, CA, is characterized by a local workforce of 740 professionals. With a Location Quotient of 0.73, the concentration of firefighters is slightly below the national average, suggesting a stable but not overly saturated market. The presence of 1.579 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates a consistent demand for these vital services within the community.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$73,990

The average Firefighters in Fresno, CA earns+70.6%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$35.6

Weekly

$1,423

Monthly

$6,166

Firefighters Salary Distribution in Fresno, CA

Salary progression for firefighters in Fresno, CA, typically scales with 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 distribution highlight clear career advancement opportunities, rewarding dedication and skill development within the profession.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period.10% (Entry)$46,260$22.2
OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls.25% (Junior)$55,493$26.7
Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit.50% (Median)$68,600$33
Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader.75% (Senior)$92,488$44.5
Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration.90% (Expert)$104,620$50.3

Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$73,990

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$73,990

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $73,990 in Fresno, CA, aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a firefighter's salary in Fresno is equivalent to that of someone earning the national average in a typical U.S. city. Consequently, the nominal salary offers a stable financial standing relative to everyday expenses in the region.

Job Market Context

740

Total Jobs

1.579

Per 1K Jobs

0.73

Location Quotient

Below Average

Fresno, CA has 0.73x 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.

With a Location Quotient of 0.73, Fresno, CA, has a slightly lower concentration of firefighters compared to the national average. This suggests that while the profession is established, the market is not saturated, potentially offering good opportunities for qualified individuals. The demand, as indicated by jobs per 1,000 workers, remains steady, implying a balanced job market where skilled firefighters are valued.

Nearby Job Markets

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Firefighters make in Fresno, CA?

The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Fresno, CA is $73,990. This typically ranges from $46,260 for entry-level positions to $104,620 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Fresno, CA is 70.6% higher than the national median of $43,380.

Is Fresno, CA a lucrative place for Firefighters?

Yes, Fresno, CA offers a lucrative environment for firefighters.Firefighters in Fresno earn significantly above the national average salary, and their income holds its value due to a cost of living that matches the national average.

Is Fresno, CA a good place to live for Firefighters?

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

Where are the highest paying cities near Fresno, CA?

Some top paying nearby cities include Hanford-Corcoran, CA ($59,280) and Visalia, CA.

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

The average annual salary for firefighters in Fresno, CA is $73,990, which is substantially higher than the national average of $43,380.

What is the Cost of Living in Fresno, CA for firefighters?

The Cost of Living Index in Fresno, CA is 100, which is exactly the national average, meaning your salary's purchasing power is standard.

Is the firefighter job market in Fresno competitive?

With a Location Quotient of 0.73, the market is slightly less concentrated than the national average, suggesting a stable and potentially accessible job market for firefighters.

How many firefighters are there in Fresno, CA?

There are approximately 740 firefighters employed in Fresno, CA, representing 1.579 jobs per 1,000 workers in the local workforce.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 740 employees in the Fresno, CA area with a job density of 1.579 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.