Firefighters
Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.
Median salary
$59,280/yr
Typical range
$44,490 – $77,250
Education
High school diploma
Time to entry
No degree required — short-term training or on-the-job learning
What a Firefighters does
You respond to fires, medical emergencies, and rescue operations, working to save lives and protect property in your community. This physically demanding job requires teamwork, quick thinking, and courage.
Education & path
The typical entry point is a high school diploma. No degree required — short-term training or on-the-job learning.
Estimated cost of that path: No degree cost. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.
Related careers
- Security Guards — $38,020/yr
- Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers — $76,210/yr
- Customs and Border Protection Officers — $76,210/yr
- Correctional Officers and Jailers — $58,940/yr
- Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers — $33,580/yr
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