Firefighter Salaries in New Jersey — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026The median firefighter salary in New Jersey is $87,660 per year, equivalent to $42.14/hr, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS programme. New Jersey employs approximately 6,590 firefighters statewide.
Firefighter salaries in New Jersey are above the national average by approximately $30,298. New Jersey has a state income tax rate of up to 10.75%.
New Jersey's proximity to major metros and strong economy supports good wages for firefighters.
New Jersey Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in New Jersey after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. New Jersey has a state income tax rate of up to 10.75%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. New Jersey has a state income tax rate of up to 10.75%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — New Jersey Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the New Jersey median of $87,660.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — New Jersey
Firefighter Salary Trend in New Jersey — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataFive-year wage growth for firefighters in New Jersey: 13.9% — a useful benchmark when negotiating pay or planning a career move. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in New Jersey's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — New Jersey
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newark | $97,300 | $46.78 | +11.0% | 2,306 |
| Jersey City | $92,900 | $44.66 | +6.0% | 1,845 |
| Paterson | $90,300 | $43.41 | +3.0% | 1,186 |
| Elizabeth | $84,150 | $40.46 | -4.0% | 593 |
| Edison | $79,750 | $38.34 | -9.0% | 395 |
| Woodbridge | $76,250 | $36.66 | -13.0% | 263 |
Tip: Newark offers the highest firefighter salaries in New Jersey at $97,300/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
New Jersey vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, New Jersey sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. New Jersey has a state income tax rate of up to 10.75%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in New Jersey
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in New Jersey is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the New Jersey job market. New Jersey's proximity to major metros and strong economy supports good wages for firefighters.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in New Jersey
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in New Jersey typically adds $71,900 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Newark pays firefighters $97,300/yr — +11.0% above the New Jersey average. Simply relocating within New Jersey 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 New Jersey. 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 — 0.8% vs New Jersey.
Find Firefighter Jobs in New Jersey
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in New Jersey:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in New Jersey — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in New Jersey — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Newark, NJ→