How much does a First Responder make?
First responders, including police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians, play a crucial role in keeping communities safe. Their dedication often comes with a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for a first responder is around $83,612. This figure can vary based on experience, education, and location.
The salary range for first responders can be quite broad. At the lower end, some new officers or EMTs may earn around $30,000 per year. As they gain experience, their salary can increase significantly. Experienced firefighters and senior police officers can earn upwards of $150,000 annually. This range reflects the diverse responsibilities and the critical nature of their work. Many first responders also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, which add to the overall value of their compensation package.
What are the highest paying cities for a First Responder?

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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $94,293
In Eugene, emergency services play a vital role in the community. The Eugene Springfield Fire Department offers a supportive environment. Eugene's mild climate makes for manageable conditions.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $90,667
Seattle's emergency services are highly regarded. The Seattle Fire Department provides excellent training. Seattle's diverse population requires a broad skill set.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $75,942
Richmond offers a dynamic environment for emergency responders. The Richmond Fire Department is known for its strong community ties. Richmond's history adds a unique aspect to the job.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $65,832
Albuquerque's emergency services face unique challenges. The Albuquerque Fire Rescue Department offers diverse experiences. Albuquerque's high altitude can be a factor to consider.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $63,731
Lansing provides a stable environment for emergency responders. The Lansing Fire Department is well-equipped. Lansing's four-season climate requires preparedness for all weather.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $62,055
San Antonio's emergency services are in high demand. The San Antonio Fire Department offers many opportunities. San Antonio's hot climate can be demanding.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $61,144
Tampa's emergency services face frequent challenges. The Tampa Fire Rescue Department is proactive. Tampa's humid climate and hurricane season require constant vigilance.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $60,771
Syracuse offers a mix of urban and rural challenges. The Syracuse Fire Department is well-respected. Syracuse's harsh winters require special skills.
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Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $59,134
Yuma's emergency services deal with extreme heat. The Yuma Fire Department is prepared for desert conditions. Yuma's dry climate can be a challenge.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $50,778
Cincinnati's emergency services are well-supported. The Cincinnati Fire Department offers many resources. Cincinnati's variable weather requires adaptability.
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What are the best companies a First Responder can work for?

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Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc.
Average Salary: $150,052
Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. offers rewarding First Responder jobs with a focus on safety and emergency response. They operate in various locations, providing critical services to communities.
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MultiCare Health System
Average Salary: $103,294
MultiCare Health System provides excellent First Responder positions. They focus on health and safety, operating in multiple locations to ensure community well-being.
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Pacific Clinics
Average Salary: $70,010
Pacific Clinics offers First Responder jobs with a strong emphasis on community care. They operate in several locations, providing essential emergency services.
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Liberty Resources, Inc.
Average Salary: $57,160
Liberty Resources, Inc. provides First Responder jobs with a focus on community support. They operate in various locations, ensuring safety and emergency response.
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Upper Valley Services
Average Salary: $50,000
Upper Valley Services offers First Responder jobs with a commitment to community safety. They operate in multiple locations, providing essential emergency services.
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Rural Metro
Average Salary: $49,069
Rural Metro provides First Responder jobs with a focus on rural emergency response. They operate in several locations, offering critical services to communities.
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Allied Universal
Average Salary: $48,526
Allied Universal offers First Responder jobs with a strong emphasis on safety and security. They operate in various locations, providing essential emergency services.
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RHA Health Services
Average Salary: $45,714
RHA Health Services provides First Responder jobs with a focus on health and safety. They operate in multiple locations, ensuring community well-being.
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Securitas
Average Salary: $41,698
Securitas offers First Responder jobs with a commitment to safety and security. They operate in various locations, providing essential emergency services.
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First Call Environmental
Average Salary: $40,727
First Call Environmental provides First Responder jobs with a focus on environmental safety. They operate in several locations, offering critical emergency response services.
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 the right location, pursuing higher education, and considering additional roles. Each of these elements offers a pathway to greater financial rewards.
- Specialized Certifications: Obtaining certifications in areas like advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) or hazardous materials (HAZMAT) can lead to higher pay. These certifications demonstrate advanced skills and knowledge, making the responder more valuable.
- Experience: More years of experience often result in higher salaries. Employers value seasoned professionals who can handle complex situations with ease. Continuous learning and skill development can also lead to promotions and pay raises.
- Location: Salaries can vary significantly based on geographic location. Urban areas with higher living costs typically offer higher wages to attract and retain first responders. Researching salary trends in different regions can help in making location-based career decisions.
- Higher Education: Pursuing a degree in emergency management, criminal justice, or a related field can open up higher-paying opportunities. Advanced degrees may lead to administrative or supervisory roles with better compensation.
- Additional Roles: Taking on extra responsibilities, such as training new recruits or serving as a team leader, can increase earnings. These roles often come with additional pay or benefits, providing a boost to the overall salary.



