Firefighter Salaries in Maine — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a firefighter make in Maine? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $47,490/yr ($22.83/hr), with around 2,390 people working in this field statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Maine are below the national average by approximately $9,872. Maine has a state income tax rate of up to 7.15%.
Maine's dense urban areas and high living costs translate into competitive firefighter salaries.
Maine Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Maine after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Maine has a state income tax rate of up to 7.15%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Maine has a state income tax rate of up to 7.15%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Maine Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Maine median of $47,490.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Maine
Firefighter Salary Trend in Maine — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataFive-year wage growth for firefighters in Maine: 13.9% — a useful benchmark when negotiating pay or planning a career move. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Maine's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Maine
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | $52,700 | $25.34 | +11.0% | 836 |
| Lewiston | $50,350 | $24.21 | +6.0% | 669 |
| Bangor | $48,900 | $23.51 | +3.0% | 430 |
| South Portland | $45,600 | $21.92 | -4.0% | 215 |
| Auburn | $43,200 | $20.77 | -9.0% | 143 |
| Augusta | $41,300 | $19.86 | -13.0% | 95 |
Tip: Portland offers the highest firefighter salaries in Maine at $52,700/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Maine vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Maine sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Maine has a state income tax rate of up to 7.15%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Maine
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Maine is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Maine job market. Maine's dense urban areas and high living costs translate into competitive firefighter salaries.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Maine
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Maine typically adds $39,000 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Portland pays firefighters $52,700/yr — +11.0% above the Maine average. Simply relocating within Maine 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 Maine. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. New Hampshire pays firefighters $57,030/yr — 20.1% vs Maine.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Maine
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Maine:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Maine — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Maine — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Portland, ME→