Firefighter Salaries in Arkansas — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a firefighter make in Arkansas? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $42,100/yr ($20.24/hr), with around 2,280 people working in this field statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Arkansas are below the national average by approximately $15,262. Arkansas has a state income tax rate of up to 4.4%.
Arkansas's growing population and business-friendly environment create expanding opportunities for firefighters.
Arkansas Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Arkansas after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Arkansas has a state income tax rate of up to 4.4%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Arkansas has a state income tax rate of up to 4.4%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Arkansas Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Arkansas median of $42,100.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Arkansas
Firefighter Salary Trend in Arkansas — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataOver the past five years, Arkansas has seen 13.9% wage growth for firefighters — broadly in line with cost-of-living changes across the region. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Arkansas's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Arkansas
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Little Rock | $46,750 | $22.48 | +11.0% | 798 |
| Fort Smith | $44,650 | $21.47 | +6.1% | 638 |
| Fayetteville | $43,350 | $20.84 | +3.0% | 410 |
| Springdale | $40,400 | $19.42 | -4.0% | 205 |
| Jonesboro | $38,300 | $18.41 | -9.0% | 136 |
| Conway | $36,650 | $17.62 | -12.9% | 91 |
Tip: Little Rock offers the highest firefighter salaries in Arkansas at $46,750/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Arkansas vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Arkansas sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Arkansas has a state income tax rate of up to 4.4%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Arkansas
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Arkansas is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Arkansas job market. Arkansas's growing population and business-friendly environment create expanding opportunities for firefighters.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Arkansas
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Arkansas typically adds $34,500 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Little Rock pays firefighters $46,750/yr — +11.0% above the Arkansas average. Simply relocating within Arkansas can meaningfully increase your income without changing careers.
3. Specialise in high-demand areas. Firefighters who specialise in fire protection and emergency services typically command premium rates in Arkansas. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Missouri pays firefighters $48,470/yr — 15.1% vs Arkansas.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Arkansas
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Arkansas:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Arkansas — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Arkansas — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Little Rock, AR→