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How much does a First Responder make?

The average salary for a First Responder is $81,708 per year in the US.

First responders play a crucial role in keeping communities safe. Their work often comes with a range of salaries. The average yearly salary for a first responder is around $81,708. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific role within the field.

Here are some common salary ranges for different types of first responders:

  • Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs): $29,100 to $39,000
  • Paramedics: $40,000 to $51,000
  • Firefighters: $51,000 to $62,000
  • Police Officers: $62,000 to $73,000
  • Correctional Officers: $73,000 to $84,000
  • Security Guards: $84,000 to $95,000
  • Lifeguards: $95,000 to $106,000
  • Search and Rescue Workers: $106,000 to $117,000
  • Hazardous Material Technicians: $117,000 to $128,000
  • Disaster Relief Workers: $128,000 to $139,000
  • Specialized Police Officers: $139,000 to $150,000

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What are the highest paying cities for a First Responder?

Job seekers looking for top-paying first responder roles should consider cities like Eugene, OR, and Seattle, WA. These cities offer some of the highest average salaries for first responders. Eugene, OR, leads the pack with an average salary of $94,293, followed closely by Seattle, WA, at $91,145. Other cities also provide competitive salaries. Richmond, VA, offers $76,409, while Syracuse, NY, provides $64,785. These figures highlight the importance of location when seeking a rewarding career in first response.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for First Responder jobs, highlighting Eugene, OR with the highest at $94,293 and Minneapolis, MN with the lowest at $53,969.
  1. Eugene, OR
    Average Salary: $94,293
    In Eugene, emergency services play a vital role. The city offers a range of opportunities with Eugene Springfield Fire Department. The community values these services, making it a rewarding place to work. The area is known for its natural beauty, adding to the quality of life.
    Find First Responder jobs in Eugene, OR


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $91,145
    Seattle offers a dynamic environment for those in emergency services. The city's diverse population and urban setting require skilled responders. Seattle Fire Department is a prominent employer. The city's vibrant culture and outdoor activities provide a balanced lifestyle.
    Find First Responder jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $76,409
    Richmond provides a mix of urban and suburban challenges. The city's emergency services are crucial, with Richmond Fire Department being a key employer. The area's rich history and growing economy offer a unique backdrop for a career in public safety.
    Find First Responder jobs in Richmond, VA


  4. Syracuse, NY
    Average Salary: $64,785
    Syracuse is a city with a strong sense of community. Emergency services here are essential, with Syracuse Fire Department leading the way. The city's cultural events and educational institutions add to the appeal. It's a place where dedication is recognized and valued.
    Find First Responder jobs in Syracuse, NY


  5. Lansing, MI
    Average Salary: $63,731
    Lansing offers a stable environment for emergency responders. The city's services are vital, with Lansing Fire Department being a major employer. The area's midwestern charm and growing industries provide a balanced lifestyle. It's a place where hard work is rewarded.
    Find First Responder jobs in Lansing, MI


  6. Albuquerque, NM
    Average Salary: $63,468
    Albuquerque provides a unique setting for emergency services. The city's diverse landscape and climate require adaptable responders. Albuquerque Fire Rescue is a key employer. The area's rich culture and outdoor opportunities make it an attractive place to work.
    Find First Responder jobs in Albuquerque, NM


  7. Yuma, AZ
    Average Salary: $63,081
    Yuma offers a warm, sunny environment for those in emergency services. The city's desert setting presents unique challenges. Yuma Fire Department is a prominent employer. The area's outdoor activities and community spirit add to the appeal of working here.
    Find First Responder jobs in Yuma, AZ


  8. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $61,541
    San Antonio is a vibrant city with a growing need for emergency services. The city's diverse population and cultural events require skilled responders. San Antonio Fire Department is a major employer. The area's rich history and warm climate make it an attractive place to work.
    Find First Responder jobs in San Antonio, TX


  9. Tampa, FL
    Average Salary: $61,144
    Tampa offers a dynamic coastal environment for emergency services. The city's growing population and tourist attractions require dedicated responders. Tampa Fire Rescue is a key employer. The area's warm weather and vibrant culture provide a balanced lifestyle.
    Find First Responder jobs in Tampa, FL


  10. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $53,969
    Minneapolis provides a mix of urban and natural environments for emergency services. The city's diverse population and cold climate require adaptable responders. Minneapolis Fire Department is a major employer. The area's cultural events and outdoor activities add to the appeal of working here.
    Find First Responder jobs in Minneapolis, MN

What are the best companies a First Responder can work for?

Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. offers the highest average salary for first responder jobs at $150,052. MultiCare Health System also provides a competitive salary of $102,499. These companies value their first responders and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for First Responder jobs, highlighting Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. with the highest at $150,052 and Securitas with the lowest at $42,398.
  1. Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc.
    Average Salary: $150,052
    Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. offers rewarding First Responder jobs. They focus on safety and security. They operate in various locations, including California and Texas.


  2. MultiCare Health System
    Average Salary: $102,499
    MultiCare Health System provides excellent First Responder positions. They focus on health and emergency services. They operate in Washington State.


  3. Pacific Clinics
    Average Salary: $72,227
    Pacific Clinics offers First Responder jobs with a focus on mental health. They operate in California and Hawaii.


  4. Liberty Resources, Inc.
    Average Salary: $57,062
    Liberty Resources, Inc. provides First Responder jobs with a focus on community services. They operate in New York and Pennsylvania.


  5. Upper Valley Services
    Average Salary: $50,000
    Upper Valley Services offers First Responder jobs with a focus on community support. They operate in Ohio and Kentucky.


  6. Rural Metro
    Average Salary: $49,379
    Rural Metro provides First Responder jobs with a focus on emergency medical services. They operate in multiple states across the U.S.


  7. Allied Universal
    Average Salary: $48,002
    Allied Universal offers First Responder jobs with a focus on security services. They operate nationwide.


  8. Red Rock Behavioral Health Services
    Average Salary: $47,079
    Red Rock Behavioral Health Services provides First Responder jobs with a focus on mental health. They operate in Oklahoma and Texas.


  9. RHA Health Services
    Average Salary: $45,538
    RHA Health Services offers First Responder jobs with a focus on health and wellness. They operate in multiple states.


  10. Securitas
    Average Salary: $42,398
    Securitas provides First Responder jobs with a focus on security. They operate worldwide.

How to earn more as a First Responder?

First responders play a crucial role in society, ensuring safety and providing aid in emergencies. Those in this field often seek ways to increase their earnings. Understanding the factors that influence salary can help in making informed career decisions. By focusing on these areas, first responders can enhance their earning potential.

Several key factors contribute to higher earnings for first responders. These include gaining specialized certifications, accumulating more experience, choosing higher-paying locations, pursuing advanced education, and seeking promotions. Each of these elements offers a pathway to greater financial rewards.

First responders can earn more by obtaining specialized certifications. These credentials demonstrate expertise in areas like advanced life support or hazardous materials handling. Certifications often lead to higher-paying positions. Gaining more experience also increases earning potential. With time, responders build a reputation and skill set that command higher salaries. Choosing to work in areas with higher living costs can also lead to better pay. Urban centers and regions with a shortage of first responders often offer competitive wages. Pursuing advanced education, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, can open doors to higher-paying roles. Education can lead to administrative or supervisory positions. Seeking promotions within the organization provides another avenue for increased earnings. Leadership roles often come with higher salaries and additional benefits. By focusing on these factors, first responders can work towards achieving their financial goals.

  1. Obtain specialized certifications
  2. Gain more experience
  3. Choose higher-paying locations
  4. Pursue advanced education
  5. Seek promotions

Currently 127 First Responder job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a First Responder in the US?

Learn what a First Responder does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a First Responder today.
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First Responder
127 Job Openings