Emergency Medical Technicians Salary in San Francisco, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA

Median annual salary $49,710 +20.2% vs national
Median hourly $23.90
10th percentile $44,040
90th percentile $84,690
Employed locally 3,080
National median $41,340

Compare Emergency Medical Technicians salary & buying power

Type a city below to see how San Francisco, CA stacks up on salary and cost of living.

Full tool →
Emergency Medical Technicians
in
San Francisco, CA
vs

    In San Francisco, California, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) typically earn a median annual salary of $49,710, which is approximately 20% higher than the national median for this occupation at $41,340. On an hourly basis, EMTs in the area make around $23.90, reflecting local living costs and demand for these essential services. When compared to the San Francisco Area's median household income of $133,780, it becomes evident that EMT earnings constitute roughly 37% of the average household income, highlighting a significant gap between professional and residential financial standings in this urban environment.

    Entry-level Emergency Medical Technicians in San Francisco can expect salaries near the 10th percentile at about $44,040 annually, which is significantly lower than those experienced in the field who may earn around the 75th percentile mark of $73,770. The disparity in earnings primarily results from differences in experience, certifications, and specialized skills that are highly valued within the emergency medical services sector. Additionally, factors such as overtime pay, shifts during peak demand times, and roles involving increased responsibility or leadership contribute to higher compensation for seasoned EMTs. As a result, experienced workers can earn salaries that approach the 90th percentile at $84,690 annually, demonstrating the financial rewards associated with career advancement in this field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $44,040
    25th
    $45,680
    50th (median)
    $49,710
    75th
    $73,770
    90th
    $84,690

    San Francisco economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $133,780 2023 • Census ACS
    Emergency Medical Technicians salary vs area income 37% Median Emergency Medical Technicians salary is 63% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Emergency Medical Technicians make per hour in San Francisco?

    The median hourly wage for Emergency Medical Technicians in San Francisco, CA is $23.90, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $42.16 or more per hour.

    Is San Francisco above or below average for Emergency Medical Technicians salaries?

    The median Emergency Medical Technicians salary in San Francisco, CA is 20.2% above the national median of $41,340. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Emergency Medical Technicians in San Francisco?

    Entry-level Emergency Medical Technicians (10th percentile) earn around $44,040 per year in San Francisco, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $45,680.