Firefighter Salaries in Tennessee — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a firefighter make in Tennessee? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $47,300/yr ($22.74/hr), with around 6,510 people working in this field statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Tennessee are below the national average by approximately $10,062. Tennessee has no earned income tax.
Tennessee's growing population and business-friendly environment create expanding opportunities for firefighters.
Tennessee Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Tennessee after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Tennessee has no earned income tax.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Tennessee has no earned income tax. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Tennessee Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Tennessee median of $47,300.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Tennessee
Firefighter Salary Trend in Tennessee — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataFirefighter salaries in Tennessee 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 Tennessee's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Tennessee
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $52,500 | $25.24 | +11.0% | 2,278 |
| Memphis | $50,150 | $24.11 | +6.0% | 1,822 |
| Knoxville | $48,700 | $23.41 | +3.0% | 1,171 |
| Chattanooga | $45,400 | $21.83 | -4.0% | 585 |
| Clarksville | $43,050 | $20.70 | -9.0% | 390 |
| Murfreesboro | $41,150 | $19.78 | -13.0% | 260 |
Tip: Nashville offers the highest firefighter salaries in Tennessee at $52,500/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Tennessee vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Tennessee compares favourably for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Tennessee has no earned income tax.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Tennessee
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Tennessee is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Tennessee job market. Tennessee's growing population and business-friendly environment create expanding opportunities for firefighters.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Tennessee
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Tennessee typically adds $38,800 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Nashville pays firefighters $52,500/yr — +11.0% above the Tennessee average. Simply relocating within Tennessee 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 Tennessee. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Kentucky pays firefighters $37,140/yr — -21.5% vs Tennessee.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Tennessee
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Tennessee:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Tennessee — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Tennessee — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Nashville, TN→