Firefighter Salaries in Louisiana — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a firefighter make in Louisiana? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $33,700/yr ($16.20/hr), with around 4,690 people working in this field statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Louisiana are below the national average by approximately $23,662. Louisiana has a state income tax rate of up to 4.25%.
Louisiana's growing population and business-friendly environment create expanding opportunities for firefighters.
Louisiana Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Louisiana after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Louisiana has a state income tax rate of up to 4.25%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Louisiana has a state income tax rate of up to 4.25%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Louisiana Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Louisiana median of $33,700.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Louisiana
Firefighter Salary Trend in Louisiana — 2021 to 2026
5-Year Datafirefighters pay in Louisiana has risen approximately 13.9% since 2021, mirroring national trends across the firefighter workforce. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Louisiana's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Louisiana
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans | $37,400 | $17.98 | +11.0% | 1,641 |
| Baton Rouge | $35,700 | $17.16 | +5.9% | 1,313 |
| Shreveport | $34,700 | $16.68 | +3.0% | 844 |
| Lafayette | $32,350 | $15.55 | -4.0% | 422 |
| Lake Charles | $30,650 | $14.74 | -9.1% | 281 |
| Kenner | $29,300 | $14.09 | -13.1% | 187 |
Tip: New Orleans offers the highest firefighter salaries in Louisiana at $37,400/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Louisiana vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Louisiana sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Louisiana has a state income tax rate of up to 4.25%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Louisiana
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Louisiana is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Louisiana job market. Louisiana's growing population and business-friendly environment create expanding opportunities for firefighters.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Louisiana
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Louisiana typically adds $27,600 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. New Orleans pays firefighters $37,400/yr — +11.0% above the Louisiana average. Simply relocating within Louisiana 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 Louisiana. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Texas pays firefighters $60,840/yr — 80.5% vs Louisiana.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Louisiana
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Louisiana:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Louisiana — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Louisiana — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — New Orleans, LA→