Firefighter Salaries in Massachusetts — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a firefighter make in Massachusetts? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $73,110/yr ($35.15/hr), with around 11,910 people working in this field statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Massachusetts are above the national average by approximately $15,748. Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5%.
Strong demand and union representation mean firefighters in Massachusetts often earn above the national median.
Massachusetts Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Massachusetts after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Massachusetts Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Massachusetts median of $73,110.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Massachusetts
Firefighter Salary Trend in Massachusetts — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataOver the past five years, Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Massachusetts
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | $81,150 | $39.01 | +11.0% | 4,168 |
| Worcester | $77,500 | $37.26 | +6.0% | 3,334 |
| Springfield | $75,300 | $36.20 | +3.0% | 2,143 |
| Cambridge | $70,200 | $33.75 | -4.0% | 1,071 |
| Lowell | $66,550 | $32.00 | -9.0% | 714 |
| Brockton | $63,600 | $30.58 | -13.0% | 476 |
Tip: Boston offers the highest firefighter salaries in Massachusetts at $81,150/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Massachusetts vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Massachusetts sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Massachusetts
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Massachusetts is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Massachusetts job market. Strong demand and union representation mean firefighters in Massachusetts often earn above the national median.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Massachusetts
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Massachusetts typically adds $60,000 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Boston pays firefighters $81,150/yr — +11.0% above the Massachusetts average. Simply relocating within Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. New York pays firefighters $88,380/yr — 20.9% vs Massachusetts.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Massachusetts
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Massachusetts:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Massachusetts — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Massachusetts — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Boston, MA→