Firefighter Salary in Tennessee
Based on 7K+ workers in Tennessee
Median Annual Salary (TN)
$49,300
$23.70/hr
vs National Average
$57,551
-14.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$34K – $70K
7K employed in Tennessee
The median Firefighter salary in Tennessee is $49,300 per year, which equates to approximately $24 per hour. This figure is 14.3% lower than the national average for firefighters. With 7,020 individuals employed in this vital role across the state, Tennessee's firefighter compensation reflects a specific regional economic landscape.
Several factors can influence the Firefighter salary in Tennessee. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals generally earning higher wages. Location within Tennessee can also impact pay, as cost of living and demand for services vary. Additionally, the specific department, its size, and the responsibilities of the role will affect the overall compensation package.
Salary Distribution — Firefighter in Tennessee
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $33,910 |
| 25th percentile | $39,360 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $49,300 |
| 75th percentile | $61,670 |
| 90th percentile | $70,460 |
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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Tennessee) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $49,300 |
| 2026 (projected) | $50,779 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Tennessee Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $49,300 | $57,551 |
| 2026 (projected) | $50,779 | $59,278 |
Firefighter Salary by Experience Level in Tennessee
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $39,360 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $49,300 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $61,670 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $70,460 |
Firefighter Salary in Other States
Related Firefighter Salaries in Tennessee
How other high-demand occupations in Tennessee compare to Firefighter ($49,300 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Firefighter | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in TN | $59,280 | +20.2% | $28.50/hr |
| Security Guard in TN | $36,000 | -27.0% | $17.31/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in TN | $49,580 | +0.6% | $23.84/hr |
| Audio and Video Technician in TN | $49,970 | +1.4% | $24.02/hr |
| Title Examiner in TN | $50,240 | +1.9% | $24.15/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in TN | $50,290 | +2.0% | $24.18/hr |
| Bookkeeper in TN | $48,180 | -2.3% | $23.16/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in TN | $47,240 | -4.2% | $22.71/hr |
| Dental Assistant in TN | $46,720 | -5.2% | $22.46/hr |
| Social Worker in TN | $46,500 | -5.7% | $22.36/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in TN | $46,250 | -6.2% | $22.24/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in TN | $46,060 | -6.6% | $22.14/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a firefighter in Tennessee?
- The salary range for firefighters in Tennessee typically falls between $33,910 and $70,460 annually. This broad range reflects differences in experience, location, and department size across the state.
How does the average firefighter salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
- The average firefighter salary in Tennessee is 14.3% lower than the national average. While the median salary in Tennessee is $49,300, the national median is higher, reflecting broader economic trends.
How many firefighters are employed in Tennessee?
- There are approximately 7,020 individuals employed as firefighters throughout Tennessee. This indicates a substantial workforce dedicated to public safety across various communities.
What is the hourly wage for a firefighter in Tennessee?
- Based on the median annual salary of $49,300, a firefighter in Tennessee can expect to earn around $24 per hour. This hourly rate can fluctuate depending on the specific salary within the $33,910 to $70,460 range.