Firefighter Salary in Ohio
Based on 18K+ workers in Ohio
Median Annual Salary (OH)
$59,370
$28.54/hr
vs National Average
$57,551
+3.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$34K – $84K
18K employed in Ohio
The median Firefighter salary in Ohio is $59,370 per year, which translates to approximately $29 per hour. This figure is 3.2% higher than the national average for firefighters, offering a competitive earning potential for those in the profession within the state. With 18,100 employed firefighters, Ohio provides a substantial number of opportunities.
Several factors influence the Firefighter salary in Ohio. Experience level plays a significant role, with entry-level positions typically earning closer to the lower end of the range, around $34,420 annually. Conversely, seasoned professionals with extensive training and specialized skills can command salaries closer to the higher end, potentially reaching $84,010 per year. Location within Ohio, such as major metropolitan areas versus smaller towns, can also impact compensation.
Salary Distribution — Firefighter in Ohio
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $34,420 |
| 25th percentile | $40,710 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $59,370 |
| 75th percentile | $74,250 |
| 90th percentile | $84,010 |
Top-Paying Industries for Firefighter (U.S.)
Which industries pay Firefighters the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Firefighters in Ohio tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $89,990 | 70 |
| Educational Services | $72,760 | 620 |
| Manufacturing | $71,490 | 590 |
| Transportation and Warehousing | $71,190 | 110 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $60,050 | 323K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Firefighter in Ohio vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Ohio) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,370 |
| 2026 (projected) | $61,151 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Ohio Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,370 | $57,551 |
| 2026 (projected) | $61,151 | $59,278 |
Firefighter Salary by Experience Level in Ohio
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $40,710 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $59,370 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $74,250 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $84,010 |
Firefighter Salary in Other States
Related Firefighter Salaries in Ohio
How other high-demand occupations in Ohio compare to Firefighter ($59,370 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Firefighter | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in OH | $77,020 | +29.7% | $37.03/hr |
| Security Guard in OH | $35,770 | -39.8% | $17.20/hr |
| Property and Real Estate Manager in OH | $59,050 | -0.5% | $28.39/hr |
| Computer User Support Specialist in OH | $59,720 | +0.6% | $28.71/hr |
| Truck Driver in OH | $59,800 | +0.7% | $28.75/hr |
| Graphic Designer in OH | $60,080 | +1.2% | $28.88/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in OH | $58,360 | -1.7% | $28.06/hr |
| Paralegal in OH | $60,420 | +1.8% | $29.05/hr |
| Librarian in OH | $60,630 | +2.1% | $29.15/hr |
| Insurance Sales Agent in OH | $61,260 | +3.2% | $29.45/hr |
| Interior Designer in OH | $61,410 | +3.4% | $29.52/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in OH | $57,140 | -3.8% | $27.47/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a firefighter in Ohio?
- In Ohio, the salary range for firefighters typically falls between $34,420 and $84,010 annually. The median salary is $59,370 per year, meaning half of all firefighters earn more and half earn less than this amount.
How does the average firefighter salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
- Firefighter salaries in Ohio are slightly above the national average, coming in at 3.2% higher. This means that on average, Ohio firefighters earn more than their counterparts across the United States.
Is there a significant difference in pay for experienced firefighters versus entry-level ones in Ohio?
- Yes, there can be a substantial difference. Entry-level firefighters in Ohio might start around $34,420 annually, while highly experienced firefighters with specialized skills could earn up to $84,010 per year.
What is the hourly wage for a firefighter in Ohio?
- The median hourly wage for a firefighter in Ohio is approximately $29 per hour. This is derived from the annual median salary of $59,370.