Firefighter Salaries in New York — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026Firefighters in New York earn an average of $88,380 per year ($42.49/hr) according to the latest BLS data. The state currently employs around 14,730 firefighters.
Firefighter salaries in New York are above the national average by approximately $31,018. New York has a state income tax rate of up to 10.9%.
New York's high cost of living and strong unions typically result in above-average wages for firefighters.
New York Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in New York after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. New York has a state income tax rate of up to 10.9%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. New York has a state income tax rate of up to 10.9%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — New York Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the New York median of $88,380.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — New York
Firefighter Salary Trend in New York — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataOver the past five years, New York 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 New York's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — New York
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | $98,100 | $47.16 | +11.0% | 5,155 |
| Buffalo | $93,700 | $45.05 | +6.0% | 4,124 |
| Rochester | $91,050 | $43.77 | +3.0% | 2,651 |
| Yonkers | $84,850 | $40.79 | -4.0% | 1,325 |
| Syracuse | $80,450 | $38.68 | -9.0% | 883 |
| Albany | $76,900 | $36.97 | -13.0% | 589 |
Tip: New York City offers the highest firefighter salaries in New York at $98,100/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
New York vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, New York sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. New York has a state income tax rate of up to 10.9%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in New York
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in New York is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the New York job market. New York's high cost of living and strong unions typically result in above-average wages for firefighters.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in New York
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in New York typically adds $72,500 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. New York City pays firefighters $98,100/yr — +11.0% above the New York average. Simply relocating within New York 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 York. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Vermont pays firefighters $46,130/yr — -47.8% vs New York.
Find Firefighter Jobs in New York
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in New York:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in New York — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in New York — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — New York City, NY→