Average Firefighters Salary in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area
Firefighters in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $42,580. This figure is slightly below the national average of $43,380, a common occurrence in nonmetropolitan regions where the cost of living and local economic factors often influence compensation levels. The specific economic landscape and demand within this particular area contribute to this salary benchmark.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $42,580 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 52.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $59,690.
- Outlook: The job market for firefighters in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area appears stable, with a total local workforce of 270 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.06 indicates a concentration of firefighters that is slightly above the national average, suggesting a consistent, albeit not overwhelmingly high, demand for these essential services within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Firefighters in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area earns-1.8%below the national average.
$20.5
$819
$3,548
Firefighters Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this nonmetropolitan area is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that firefighter salaries in Southwest Virginia have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by inflation, evolving job responsibilities, and the increasing need for skilled emergency responders across the country.
Firefighters Salary Distribution in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area
Salary progression for firefighters in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area is significantly influenced by experience. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with extensive training and years of service can expect to earn considerably more. The percentile gaps in salary data serve as a clear indicator of this career advancement, with senior firefighters occupying the higher earning brackets.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $24,960 | $12 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $31,935 | $15.4 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $39,360 | $18.9 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $53,225 | $25.6 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $59,690 | $28.7 |
Detailed Firefighters Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$42,580
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$42,580
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $42,580 in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a firefighter's salary in this region is comparable to the national average, offering a stable financial standing relative to everyday expenses.
Job Market Context
270
Total Jobs
2.29
Per 1K Jobs
1.06
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.06, Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Firefighters roles compared to the national norm.
With a Location Quotient of 1.06, Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area exhibits a slightly higher concentration of firefighters compared to the national average. This suggests a job market that is neither oversaturated nor critically undersupplied, indicating a healthy level of demand and availability for qualified individuals in this profession within the region.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Firefighters
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Charlottesville, VA Firefighters Salary | $46,070↑ 8% | 25 mi |
| Richmond, VA Firefighters Salary | $63,320↑ 49% | 41 mi |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft, VA Firefighters Salary | $47,290↑ 11% | 56 mi |
| Harrisonburg, VA Firefighters Salary | $42,640↑ 0% | 60 mi |
| Lynchburg, VA Firefighters Salary | $42,960↑ 1% | 61 mi |
Comparing salaries near Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Firefighters make in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Firefighters in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area is $42,580. This typically ranges from $24,960 for entry-level positions to $59,690 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area is 1.8% lower than the national median of $43,380.
Is Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Firefighters?
No, it is not exceptionally lucrative, but it offers comparable value.The average salary is slightly below the national average, but the cost of living is also at the national average, making the purchasing power equivalent.
Is Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Firefighters?
The Cost of Living Index in Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Charlottesville, VA ($46,070) and Richmond, VA.
How does the number of firefighters in Southwest Virginia compare nationally?
With 2.29 jobs per 1,000 workers, the region has a slightly higher density of firefighters than the national average, as indicated by the Location Quotient of 1.06.
What is the total number of firefighters in this region?
There are approximately 270 firefighters employed in the Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area.
Does experience significantly impact a firefighter's salary in this area?
Yes, experience is a key factor, with senior firefighters earning substantially more than entry-level personnel, reflecting career progression and skill development.
How does the cost of living affect the firefighter salary in Southwest Virginia?
The cost of living index is 100, matching the national average, meaning the $42,580 salary provides a standard purchasing power comparable to the rest of the country.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 270 employees in the Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 2.29 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 Virginia nonmetropolitan area