Firefighter Salaries in Maryland — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a firefighter make in Maryland? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $70,580/yr ($33.94/hr), with around 5,250 people working in this field statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Maryland are above the national average by approximately $13,218. Maryland has a state income tax rate of up to 5.75%.
Maryland's blend of urban density and corporate presence supports above-average firefighter pay.
Maryland Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Maryland after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Maryland has a state income tax rate of up to 5.75%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Maryland has a state income tax rate of up to 5.75%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Maryland Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Maryland median of $70,580.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Maryland
Firefighter Salary Trend in Maryland — 2021 to 2026
5-Year Datafirefighters pay in Maryland has risen approximately 13.9% since 2021, mirroring national trends across the firefighter workforce. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Maryland's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Maryland
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore | $78,350 | $37.67 | +11.0% | 1,837 |
| Frederick | $74,800 | $35.96 | +6.0% | 1,470 |
| Rockville | $72,700 | $34.95 | +3.0% | 945 |
| Gaithersburg | $67,750 | $32.57 | -4.0% | 472 |
| Bowie | $64,250 | $30.89 | -9.0% | 315 |
| Annapolis | $61,400 | $29.52 | -13.0% | 210 |
Tip: Baltimore offers the highest firefighter salaries in Maryland at $78,350/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Maryland vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Maryland sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Maryland has a state income tax rate of up to 5.75%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Maryland
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Maryland is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Maryland job market. Maryland's blend of urban density and corporate presence supports above-average firefighter pay.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Maryland
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Maryland typically adds $57,800 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Baltimore pays firefighters $78,350/yr — +11.0% above the Maryland average. Simply relocating within Maryland 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 Maryland. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Pennsylvania pays firefighters $71,430/yr — 1.2% vs Maryland.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Maryland
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Maryland:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Maryland — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Maryland — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Baltimore, MD→