Average Firefighters Salary in Las Cruces, NM
Firefighters in Las Cruces, New Mexico, command an average annual salary of $46,270, which is notably higher than the national average of $43,380. This elevated compensation is often a reflection of the specific demands and responsibilities inherent to the role within the Las Cruces area, potentially influenced by local economic factors and the cost of essential services.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $46,270 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $64,330.
- Outlook: The Las Cruces firefighter job market demonstrates a healthy concentration, with a Location Quotient of 1.42 indicating a stronger presence of these professionals compared to the national average. With a local workforce of 240 individuals in this role, the demand appears stable and well-established within the community, suggesting a robust employment landscape for skilled firefighters.
Salary Overview
The average Firefighters in Las Cruces, NM earns+6.7%above the national average.
$22.3
$890
$3,856
Firefighters Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Las Cruces firefighters is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend in salaries over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic growth and inflation typically drive increases in compensation for essential service roles like firefighting, ensuring that pay remains competitive and reflective of the evolving economic climate.
Firefighters Salary Distribution in Las Cruces, NM
Career progression for firefighters in Las Cruces typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level positions to senior roles. While exact figures vary, experienced firefighters often earn substantially more, with percentile gaps in salary data reflecting the value placed on accumulated knowledge, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities within the department.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $36,080 | $17.3 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $34,703 | $16.7 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $45,890 | $22.1 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $57,838 | $27.8 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $64,330 | $30.9 |
Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$46,270
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$46,270
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal salary of $46,270 in Las Cruces, NM, is particularly attractive given the local Cost of Living Index is exactly at the national average of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a firefighter's salary in Las Cruces is equivalent to the national average, allowing for a comfortable standard of living without the added financial strain of a higher cost of living.
Job Market Context
240
Total Jobs
3.063
Per 1K Jobs
1.42
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.42, Las Cruces, NM has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Firefighters roles compared to the national norm.
With a Location Quotient of 1.42, Las Cruces exhibits a higher concentration of firefighters than the national average. This suggests a dedicated and potentially more competitive local job market for these professionals, where their skills are in demand and their presence is a significant part of the community's public safety infrastructure.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Firefighters
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| El Paso, TX Firefighters Salary | $47,520↑ 3% | 39 mi |
Comparing salaries near Las Cruces, NM
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Firefighters make in Las Cruces, NM?
The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Las Cruces, NM is $46,270. This typically ranges from $36,080 for entry-level positions to $64,330 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Las Cruces, NM is 6.7% higher than the national median of $43,380.
Is Las Cruces, NM a lucrative place for Firefighters?
Yes, it is a lucrative place for Firefighters.Firefighters in Las Cruces earn above the national average salary, and with a cost of living on par with the national average, their earnings provide strong purchasing power.
Is Las Cruces, NM a good place to live for Firefighters?
The Cost of Living Index in Las Cruces, NM is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Las Cruces, NM?
Some top paying nearby cities include El Paso, TX ($47,520) and others.
How does the Las Cruces firefighter salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for firefighters in Las Cruces, NM, is $46,270, which is higher than the national average of $43,380.
What is the concentration of firefighters in Las Cruces compared to the nation?
Las Cruces has a Location Quotient of 1.42 for firefighters, indicating a concentration 42% higher than the national average.
How does the cost of living in Las Cruces affect firefighter salaries?
The cost of living in Las Cruces is at the national average (100), meaning the $46,270 salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average.
What is the total number of firefighters employed in Las Cruces?
There are approximately 240 firefighters employed in Las Cruces, NM.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 240 employees in the Las Cruces, NM area with a job density of 3.063 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 Las Cruces, NM