Firefighter Salaries in Missouri — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026Missouri pays firefighters a median wage of $48,470 per year — that's $23.30/hr based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS survey. The state's 6,740 firefighters make up a meaningful portion of the regional workforce.
Firefighter salaries in Missouri are below the national average by approximately $8,892. Missouri has a state income tax rate of up to 4.8%.
A solid industrial economy and stable population mean firefighters in Missouri enjoy reliable job security.
Missouri Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Missouri after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Missouri has a state income tax rate of up to 4.8%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Missouri has a state income tax rate of up to 4.8%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Missouri Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Missouri median of $48,470.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Missouri
Firefighter Salary Trend in Missouri — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataFirefighter salaries in Missouri have grown an estimated 13.9% over the past five years, reflecting broader workforce and economic conditions. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Missouri's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Missouri
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | $53,800 | $25.87 | +11.0% | 2,359 |
| Saint Louis | $51,400 | $24.71 | +6.0% | 1,887 |
| Springfield | $49,900 | $23.99 | +3.0% | 1,213 |
| Columbia | $46,550 | $22.38 | -4.0% | 606 |
| Independence | $44,100 | $21.20 | -9.0% | 404 |
| Jefferson City | $42,150 | $20.26 | -13.0% | 269 |
Tip: Kansas City offers the highest firefighter salaries in Missouri at $53,800/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Missouri vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Missouri sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Missouri has a state income tax rate of up to 4.8%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Missouri
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Missouri is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Missouri job market. A solid industrial economy and stable population mean firefighters in Missouri enjoy reliable job security.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Missouri
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Missouri typically adds $39,700 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Kansas City pays firefighters $53,800/yr — +11.0% above the Missouri average. Simply relocating within Missouri 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 Missouri. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Iowa pays firefighters $55,190/yr — 13.9% vs Missouri.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Missouri
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Missouri:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Missouri — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Missouri — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Kansas City, MO→