Firefighter Salary in Wisconsin
Based on 8K+ workers in Wisconsin
Median Annual Salary (WI)
$46,850
$22.52/hr
vs National Average
$57,551
-18.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$29K – $77K
8K employed in Wisconsin
The median Firefighter salary in Wisconsin is $46,850 per year, which translates to approximately $23 per hour. This figure is 18.6% lower than the national average for firefighters. With 8,120 individuals employed in this vital profession across the state, Wisconsin's firefighter compensation offers a starting point for understanding earning potential.
Several factors influence the Firefighter salary in Wisconsin. Experience level is a significant driver, with entry-level positions typically earning closer to the lower end of the $29,390 range, while seasoned professionals can reach up to $77,050. Location within Wisconsin, the size of the fire department, and specific certifications or specializations also play a role in determining an individual's pay.
Salary Distribution — Firefighter in Wisconsin
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $29,390 |
| 25th percentile | $36,490 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $46,850 |
| 75th percentile | $62,660 |
| 90th percentile | $77,050 |
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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Wisconsin) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,850 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,256 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Wisconsin Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $46,850 | $57,551 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,256 | $59,278 |
Firefighter Salary by Experience Level in Wisconsin
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $36,490 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $46,850 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $62,660 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $77,050 |
Firefighter Salary in Other States
Related Firefighter Salaries in Wisconsin
How other high-demand occupations in Wisconsin compare to Firefighter ($46,850 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Firefighter | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in WI | $78,090 | +66.7% | $37.54/hr |
| Security Guard in WI | $37,440 | -20.1% | $18.00/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in WI | $46,970 | +0.3% | $22.58/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in WI | $46,530 | -0.7% | $22.37/hr |
| Dental Assistant in WI | $47,520 | +1.4% | $22.85/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in WI | $47,710 | +1.8% | $22.94/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in WI | $45,970 | -1.9% | $22.10/hr |
| Title Examiner in WI | $48,070 | +2.6% | $23.11/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in WI | $45,130 | -3.7% | $21.70/hr |
| Medical Assistant in WI | $48,680 | +3.9% | $23.40/hr |
| Bookkeeper in WI | $50,340 | +7.4% | $24.20/hr |
| Audio and Video Technician in WI | $51,390 | +9.7% | $24.71/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a firefighter in Wisconsin?
- The salary range for a firefighter in Wisconsin generally falls between $29,390 and $77,050 per year. The median salary sits at $46,850 annually, providing a good middle-ground estimate for those entering or working in the field.
How does the average firefighter salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
- Firefighter salaries in Wisconsin are notably lower than the national average. On average, firefighters in Wisconsin earn 18.6% less than their counterparts across the country.
What are the hourly earnings for a firefighter in Wisconsin?
- Based on the median annual salary of $46,850, a firefighter in Wisconsin can expect to earn around $23 per hour. This hourly rate is a key metric for understanding daily or shift-based compensation.
How many firefighters are employed in Wisconsin?
- There are approximately 8,120 firefighters employed throughout Wisconsin. This number indicates the size of the job market for this essential service within the state.