Firefighter Salaries in Washington — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026Washington pays firefighters a median wage of $93,490 per year — that's $44.95/hr based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS survey. The state's 8,000 firefighters make up a meaningful portion of the regional workforce.
Firefighter salaries in Washington are above the national average by approximately $36,128. Washington has no state income tax.
Washington's strong economy and high demand for skilled workers drive competitive wages for firefighters.
Washington Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Washington after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Washington has no state income tax.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Washington has no state income tax. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Washington Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Washington median of $93,490.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Washington
Firefighter Salary Trend in Washington — 2021 to 2026
5-Year Datafirefighters pay in Washington has risen approximately 13.9% since 2021, mirroring national trends across the firefighter workforce. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Washington's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Washington
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle | $103,750 | $49.88 | +11.0% | 2,800 |
| Spokane | $99,100 | $47.64 | +6.0% | 2,240 |
| Tacoma | $96,300 | $46.30 | +3.0% | 1,440 |
| Vancouver | $89,750 | $43.15 | -4.0% | 720 |
| Bellevue | $85,100 | $40.91 | -9.0% | 480 |
| Kirkland | $81,350 | $39.11 | -13.0% | 320 |
Tip: Seattle offers the highest firefighter salaries in Washington at $103,750/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Washington vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Washington compares favourably for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Washington has no state income tax.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Washington
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Washington is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Washington job market. Washington's strong economy and high demand for skilled workers drive competitive wages for firefighters.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Washington
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Washington typically adds $76,600 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Seattle pays firefighters $103,750/yr — +11.0% above the Washington average. Simply relocating within Washington 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 Washington. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Idaho pays firefighters $53,860/yr — -42.4% vs Washington.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Washington
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Washington:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Washington — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Washington — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Seattle, WA→