Average Firefighters Salary in Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area
Firefighters in the Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $35,200. This figure is notably below the national average of $43,380, suggesting that regional economic factors and demand dynamics play a significant role in compensation within this specific locale. The lower average salary can often be attributed to a combination of local economic conditions and the specific needs of the community served.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $35,200 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 15.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $43,580.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 310 individuals, the firefighter job market in Southwest Minnesota is relatively stable. The Location Quotient of 1.2 indicates a slightly higher concentration of firefighters compared to the national average, suggesting a consistent, albeit not booming, demand for these essential services within the region. This concentration implies a steady need for skilled professionals to maintain community safety.
Salary Overview
The average Firefighters in Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area earns-18.9%below the national average.
$16.9
$677
$2,933
Firefighters Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume that firefighter salaries in Southwest Minnesota have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends of increasing wages for public safety professionals. This growth is typically driven by factors such as inflation, evolving job responsibilities, and the ongoing need for experienced personnel.
Firefighters Salary Distribution in Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area
As firefighters gain experience, their earning potential typically increases significantly. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while senior firefighters with specialized skills and years of service can expect to earn considerably more. The percentile gaps in salary distribution reflect this career progression, with higher percentiles representing seasoned professionals who have climbed the ranks and taken on greater responsibilities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $22,570 | $10.9 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $26,400 | $12.7 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $36,530 | $17.6 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $44,000 | $21.2 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $43,580 | $21 |
Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$35,200
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$35,200
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $35,200 for firefighters in Southwest Minnesota aligns precisely with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that while the salary is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that income is equivalent to the national average, making the effective financial standing comparable to other regions.
Job Market Context
310
Total Jobs
2.586
Per 1K Jobs
1.2
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.20, Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Firefighters roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.2 for firefighters in Southwest Minnesota signifies a job market where this profession is slightly more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a healthy, stable demand for firefighters relative to the general workforce, indicating that the area values and requires a solid presence of these emergency responders. It implies a competitive but accessible market for qualified individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Firefighters
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI Firefighters Salary | $51,460↑ 46% | 58 mi |
Comparing salaries near Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Firefighters make in Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area is $35,200. This typically ranges from $22,570 for entry-level positions to $43,580 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area is 18.9% lower than the national median of $43,380.
Is Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Firefighters?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $35,200 is below the national average, although the cost of living is also at the national average, making the effective purchasing power comparable.
Is Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Firefighters?
The Cost of Living Index in Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI ($51,460) and others.
How does the number of local firefighters compare nationally?
With 310 firefighters in the local workforce, the concentration is slightly higher than the national average, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.2.
What is the cost of living for firefighters in this region?
The cost of living in Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area is exactly at the national average, with an index of 100.
How does the firefighter salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for firefighters in this region is $35,200, which is lower than the national average of $43,380.
What does a Location Quotient of 1.2 mean for firefighters?
A Location Quotient of 1.2 indicates that the concentration of firefighters in Southwest Minnesota is 20% higher than the national average, suggesting a robust local presence and demand for the profession.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 310 employees in the Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 2.586 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 Southwest Minnesota nonmetropolitan area