Firefighters Salary in Kansas City, MO-KS

In Kansas City, MO-KS, the typical firefighter earns a median annual salary of $58,960, with an hourly wage averaging $28.35. This figure is slightly below the national median salary for firefighters, which stands at $59,530. When compared to the local household income in this region, where the area median household income is $81,927, it becomes evident that a firefighter's earnings are notably less than what the average household earns. Despite being an essential public service role, their compensation does not fully match the broader economic benchmarks set by other professions or the general earning capacity of households within the same locale.

For entry-level firefighters in Kansas City, MO-KS, salaries start at approximately $33,280 annually, marking the 10th percentile of earnings. In contrast, those with more experience and expertise can earn up to $82,730, which is at the 90th percentile of salary distribution. The substantial variance between these figures highlights how factors such as years of service, level of training, and specialized skills contribute significantly to income progression within this occupation. Additional elements like overtime pay due to emergency response requirements and hazard duty differentials also play a role in driving higher earnings for experienced firefighters, allowing them to surpass the median salary considerably over their careers.