Average Firefighters Salary in Massachusetts
Firefighters in Massachusetts earn a compelling average annual salary of $73,130, significantly surpassing the national average of $43,380. This elevated compensation is largely driven by the state's robust economy, specialized training requirements, and the inherent risks associated with the profession, all contributing to a higher pay scale within the Commonwealth.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $73,130 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $98,610.
- Outlook: With a substantial local workforce of 11,910 firefighters and a Location Quotient of 1.52, Massachusetts demonstrates a strong and concentrated demand for these essential professionals. The concentration above the national average suggests a robust job market where the need for skilled firefighters is notably higher than in many other regions, indicating a healthy and active employment landscape.
Salary Overview
The average Firefighters in Massachusetts earns+68.6%above the national average.
$35.2
$1,406
$6,094
Firefighters Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that firefighter salaries in Massachusetts have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring general economic trends and the increasing demand for public safety services. Factors such as inflation, evolving training standards, and collective bargaining agreements likely contribute to a positive salary trajectory for the profession.
Firefighters Salary Distribution in Massachusetts
Career progression for firefighters in Massachusetts typically involves significant salary increases with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned veterans with specialized certifications and leadership roles can command salaries well into the upper percentiles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior salaries clearly signifies substantial career advancement opportunities and earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $47,330 | $22.8 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $54,848 | $26.4 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $73,110 | $35.1 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $91,413 | $43.9 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $98,610 | $47.4 |
Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$73,130
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$49,279
Adjusted for COL (148.4)
While the average firefighter salary in Massachusetts is $73,130, the state's Cost of Living Index stands at 148.4, meaning it is 48.4% more expensive than the national average. This indicates that while the nominal salary is high, the purchasing power may be somewhat diminished compared to lower cost-of-living areas, requiring careful financial planning for those relocating.
Job Market Context
11,910
Total Jobs
3.27
Per 1K Jobs
1.52
Location Quotient
Massachusetts has 1.5x 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.
A Location Quotient of 1.52 signifies that firefighters are 52% more concentrated in Massachusetts than the national average. This suggests a robust and specialized job market where demand for these professionals is significantly higher relative to the general workforce, indicating a competitive yet abundant environment for skilled individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Firefighters
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Worcester, MA Firefighters Salary | $68,720↓ 6% | 14 mi |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Firefighters Salary | $74,810↑ 2% | 24 mi |
| Providence-Warwick, RI-MA Firefighters Salary | $67,740↓ 7% | 29 mi |
| Amherst Town-Northampton, MA Firefighters Salary | $58,770↓ 20% | 52 mi |
| Springfield, MA Firefighters Salary | $66,550↓ 9% | 52 mi |
Comparing salaries near Massachusetts
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Firefighters make in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Massachusetts is $73,130. This typically ranges from $47,330 for entry-level positions to $98,610 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Massachusetts is 68.6% higher than the national median of $43,380.
Is Massachusetts a lucrative place for Firefighters?
Yes, Massachusetts offers lucrative opportunities for Firefighters.The average salary of $73,130 significantly exceeds the national average, and the high concentration of jobs indicates strong demand within the state.
Is Massachusetts a good place to live for Firefighters?
The Cost of Living Index in Massachusetts is 148.4. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Massachusetts?
Some top paying nearby cities include Worcester, MA ($68,720) and Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH.
How does the Massachusetts firefighter salary compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Massachusetts earn an average of $73,130 annually, which is substantially higher than the national average of $43,380.
What is the concentration of firefighters in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has a Location Quotient of 1.52 for firefighters, meaning the profession is 52% more concentrated there than the national average, indicating higher demand.
How does the cost of living affect firefighter salaries in Massachusetts?
With a Cost of Living Index of 148.4, Massachusetts is significantly more expensive than the national average, meaning the higher nominal salary is partially offset by increased living expenses.
What does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers signify for firefighters in Massachusetts?
The figure of 3.27 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates a healthy presence of firefighter roles within the state's employment landscape, suggesting consistent opportunities.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 11,910 employees in the Massachusetts area with a job density of 3.27 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 Massachusetts