Firefighter Salaries in Vermont — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026The median firefighter salary in Vermont is $46,130 per year, equivalent to $22.18/hr, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS programme. Vermont employs approximately 470 firefighters statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Vermont are below the national average by approximately $11,232. Vermont has a state income tax rate of up to 8.75%.
Vermont's high cost of living and strong unions typically result in above-average wages for firefighters.
Vermont Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Vermont after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Vermont has a state income tax rate of up to 8.75%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Vermont has a state income tax rate of up to 8.75%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Vermont Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Vermont median of $46,130.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Vermont
Firefighter Salary Trend in Vermont — 2021 to 2026
5-Year Datafirefighters pay in Vermont has risen approximately 13.9% since 2021, mirroring national trends across the firefighter workforce. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Vermont's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Vermont
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington | $51,200 | $24.62 | +11.0% | 164 |
| South Burlington | $48,900 | $23.51 | +6.0% | 131 |
| Rutland | $47,500 | $22.84 | +3.0% | 84 |
| Barre | $44,300 | $21.30 | -4.0% | 50 |
| Montpelier | $42,000 | $20.19 | -9.0% | 50 |
| Winooski | $40,150 | $19.30 | -13.0% | 50 |
Tip: Burlington offers the highest firefighter salaries in Vermont at $51,200/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Vermont vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Vermont sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Vermont has a state income tax rate of up to 8.75%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Vermont
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Vermont is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Vermont job market. Vermont's high cost of living and strong unions typically result in above-average wages for firefighters.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Vermont
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Vermont typically adds $37,800 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Burlington pays firefighters $51,200/yr — +11.0% above the Vermont average. Simply relocating within Vermont 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 Vermont. 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 — 91.6% vs Vermont.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Vermont
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Vermont:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Vermont — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Vermont — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Burlington, VT→