Firefighters Salary in California
Firefighters in California earn a median of $85,120 a year, +44% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $85,120
- vs. U.S. median
- +44% ($59,280)
- Rank among states
- 3 of 50
- Jobs in the state
- 31,470
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $52,390; the top 10% earn over $136,150. Nationally the range is $34,910 to $101,040.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Forest and Conservation Workers$43,680 median in California
- Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical Technicians$36,150 median in California
- Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists$97,370 median in California
- Aircraft Service Attendants$46,800 median in California
- Subway and Streetcar Operators$78,680 median in California
- Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels$110,090 median in California
Firefighters pay in California
How much do firefighters make in California?
The median is $85,120 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $52,390 and the top 10% earn over $136,150. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for firefighters?
On pay alone it ranks 3 of 50 (+44% vs. the national median of $59,280). Living costs are not included.