Firefighter Salary in South Carolina
Based on 8K+ workers in South Carolina
Median Annual Salary (SC)
$42,570
$20.47/hr
vs National Average
$57,551
-26.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$29K – $62K
8K employed in South Carolina
The median Firefighter salary in South Carolina is $42,570 per year, which equates to approximately $20 per hour. This figure is significantly lower than the national average, with South Carolina firefighters earning 26.0% less. Currently, there are around 7,780 firefighters employed across the state, contributing to public safety.
Several factors influence the Firefighter salary in South Carolina. Experience plays a crucial role, with entry-level positions typically paying closer to the lower end of the range, around $29,130. Conversely, seasoned firefighters with specialized skills and certifications can command salaries approaching the upper limit of $62,150. Location within the state and the specific size and budget of the fire department also impact compensation.
Salary Distribution — Firefighter in South Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $29,130 |
| 25th percentile | $34,510 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $42,570 |
| 75th percentile | $49,570 |
| 90th percentile | $62,150 |
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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina vs National
| Year | Median Salary (South Carolina) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $42,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $43,847 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | South Carolina Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $42,570 | $57,551 |
| 2026 (projected) | $43,847 | $59,278 |
Firefighter Salary by Experience Level in South Carolina
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $34,510 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $42,570 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $49,570 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $62,150 |
Firefighter Salary in Other States
Related Firefighter Salaries in South Carolina
How other high-demand occupations in South Carolina compare to Firefighter ($42,570 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Firefighter | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in SC | $58,070 | +36.4% | $27.92/hr |
| Security Guard in SC | $35,460 | -16.7% | $17.05/hr |
| Construction Laborer in SC | $42,940 | +0.9% | $20.64/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in SC | $42,120 | -1.1% | $20.25/hr |
| Medical Assistant in SC | $41,160 | -3.3% | $19.79/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in SC | $44,880 | +5.4% | $21.58/hr |
| Social Worker in SC | $39,930 | -6.2% | $19.20/hr |
| Tutor in SC | $39,800 | -6.5% | $19.13/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in SC | $38,860 | -8.7% | $18.68/hr |
| Title Examiner in SC | $46,740 | +9.8% | $22.47/hr |
| Dental Assistant in SC | $47,320 | +11.2% | $22.75/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in SC | $47,880 | +12.5% | $23.02/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a firefighter in South Carolina?
- In South Carolina, the salary range for firefighters generally falls between $29,130 and $62,150 annually. This means that most firefighters earn within this spectrum, with the median salary sitting at $42,570.
How does the average firefighter salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
- Firefighter salaries in South Carolina are notably lower than the national average. On average, firefighters in the state earn 26.0% less than their counterparts across the United States.
What is the hourly rate for a firefighter in South Carolina?
- Based on the median annual salary of $42,570, the approximate hourly rate for a firefighter in South Carolina is $20 per hour. This is a common benchmark for evaluating compensation within the state.
How many firefighters are employed in South Carolina?
- There are approximately 7,780 firefighters employed throughout South Carolina. This number reflects the total workforce dedicated to fire suppression and prevention services across the state.