Firefighters Salary in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD

Median annual salary $78,980 +32.7% vs national
Median hourly $37.97
10th percentile $43,530
90th percentile $90,240
Employed locally 3,440
National median $59,530

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    In Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD, the typical firefighter earns a median annual salary of $78,980, which translates to a median hourly wage of $37.97. This median salary is significantly higher than the national median for firefighters, which stands at $59,530. When compared to local household income data, the earnings of firefighters in this region are slightly below the area's median household income of $89,273. Despite being lower than the household average, firefighter salaries remain robust, reflecting both the critical nature of their work and their specialized skills required for ensuring public safety.

    For entry-level firefighters in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD, earnings start at a 10th percentile salary of approximately $43,530 annually, while those at the 25th percentile earn around $53,210 per year. In contrast, experienced firefighters who have advanced to the higher echelons of their careers can expect to earn significantly more, with salaries reaching up to the 75th and 90th percentiles both capped at $90,240 annually. This disparity in earnings between entry-level and seasoned professionals is driven by a combination of factors including years of service, additional responsibilities, specialized skills, and leadership roles within their departments. The progression reflects not only experience but also the rigorous demands and continuous training required to perform effectively as firefighters.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $43,530
    25th
    $53,210
    50th (median)
    $78,980
    75th
    $90,240
    90th
    $90,240

    Philadelphia economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $89,273 2023 • Census ACS
    Firefighters salary vs area income 88% Median Firefighters salary is 12% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Firefighters make per hour in Philadelphia?

    The median hourly wage for Firefighters in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD is $37.97, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $42.88 or more per hour.

    Is Philadelphia above or below average for Firefighters salaries?

    The median Firefighters salary in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD is 32.7% above the national median of $59,530. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Firefighters in Philadelphia?

    Entry-level Firefighters (10th percentile) earn around $43,530 per year in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $53,210.