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How much does a First Responder make?

The average salary for a First Responder is $84,327 per year in the US.

First responders play a crucial role in our communities, ensuring safety and helping during emergencies. The average yearly salary for a first responder is around $84,327. This figure includes those working in various roles, such as firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical technicians. These professionals earn between $30,900 and $150,000 annually, depending on their experience, location, and specific job duties.


Different types of first responders have varying salary ranges. For instance, the lowest 10% earn around $30,900 per year. The middle 50% of first responders make between $41,727 and $95,864 yearly. Those in the top 10% can earn over $139,000 annually. Salaries vary based on the specific role, education, and years of experience.

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What are the highest paying cities for a First Responder?

First responders can find some of the best pay in cities like Seattle, WA and Richmond, VA. These cities offer salaries above the national average, making them attractive options. Job seekers aiming for higher pay should consider positions in these areas. Opportunities in Albuquerque, NM, and Tampa, FL, also provide competitive wages. These cities offer a good balance of pay and cost of living. This makes them ideal for those seeking to advance in their careers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for First Responder jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $89,025 and Philadelphia, PA with the lowest at $45,470.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $89,025
    In Seattle, being a first responder means offering vital services to a vibrant and diverse community. The city boasts robust healthcare and public safety systems, providing extensive support for those in the field. Opportunities exist with major institutions like Seattle Fire Department and Harborview Medical Center.
    Find First Responder jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $78,423
    Richmond offers a strong environment for first responders, with a focus on community safety and support. The city's emergency services, including the Richmond Police Department, are well-regarded. They provide ample training and resources to ensure high standards of service.
    Find First Responder jobs in Richmond, VA


  3. Albuquerque, NM
    Average Salary: $66,977
    Working in Albuquerque means dealing with a unique mix of urban and natural challenges. First responders in the area face a diverse set of situations, from city emergencies to natural disasters. The Albuquerque Fire Rescue Department offers excellent career growth and community involvement.
    Find First Responder jobs in Albuquerque, NM


  4. Tampa, FL
    Average Salary: $62,366
    In Tampa, first responders play a crucial role in keeping the city safe and secure. The warm climate and diverse population create a dynamic work environment. The Tampa Police Department and Hillsborough County Fire Rescue provide excellent training and career development.
    Find First Responder jobs in Tampa, FL


  5. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $59,525
    San Antonio offers a vibrant setting for first responders, with a strong emphasis on community and safety. The city’s police and fire departments provide extensive training and resources. The large population and diverse needs create a rewarding career path.
    Find First Responder jobs in San Antonio, TX


  6. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $56,741
    Tucson provides a unique environment for first responders, with a mix of urban and desert challenges. The city's emergency services, including the Tucson Fire Department, offer excellent training and community support. The desert landscape adds a unique element to daily operations.
    Find First Responder jobs in Tucson, AZ


  7. Syracuse, NY
    Average Salary: $56,183
    In Syracuse, first responders contribute to a strong sense of community safety. The city’s emergency services are well-supported and offer comprehensive training programs. Opportunities exist with organizations like the Syracuse Fire Department and Onondaga County Sheriff's Office.
    Find First Responder jobs in Syracuse, NY


  8. Yuma, AZ
    Average Salary: $50,826
    Yuma offers a close-knit community for first responders, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and public safety. The city’s emergency services provide a supportive environment for career growth. The Yuma Fire Department and Yuma County Sheriff's Office are key employers in the area.
    Find First Responder jobs in Yuma, AZ


  9. St. Louis, MO
    Average Salary: $47,343
    In St. Louis, first responders face a diverse set of challenges in a vibrant urban setting. The city's emergency services, including the St. Louis Fire Department, offer excellent training and resources. The large population and varied needs create a rewarding career path.
    Find First Responder jobs in St. Louis, MO


  10. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $45,470
    Philadelphia offers a rich history and diverse environment for first responders. The city’s emergency services are highly regarded, with ample opportunities for career advancement. The Philadelphia Police Department and Philadelphia Fire Department provide excellent training and support.
    Find First Responder jobs in Philadelphia, PA

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

Job seekers interested in First Responder roles should consider positions with Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc., which offers the highest average salary at $150,052. MultiCare Health System also provides a competitive salary of $103,420. These companies recognize the critical nature of their work and reward their employees accordingly. Securitas, Resources for Human Development, and Allied Universal offer strong salaries above $40,000. RHA Health Services, Rural Metro, and Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare present excellent opportunities for those seeking to enter the field. On-Site Health & Safety and All County Ambulance provide solid options for those starting their careers in this vital area.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for First Responder jobs, highlighting Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. with the highest at $150,052 and All County Ambulance with the lowest at $35,480.
  1. Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc.
    Average Salary: $150,052
    Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. offers rewarding careers for First Responders across various locations in the United States. They focus on providing expert advice and services in emergency management and disaster response. Key locations include Washington, D.C., New York, and Los Angeles.


  2. MultiCare Health System
    Average Salary: $103,420
    MultiCare Health System provides high-paying roles for First Responders in Washington state. They operate in cities like Tacoma, Seattle, and Olympia. Employees enjoy a supportive environment and the chance to make a difference in community health and safety.


  3. Securitas
    Average Salary: $49,172
    Securitas offers a range of First Responder positions with competitive salaries. They are present across the nation, from Los Angeles to New York. Their focus is on providing security services and emergency response in various settings, including corporate, healthcare, and retail.


  4. Resources for Human Development
    Average Salary: $48,835
    Resources for Human Development offers rewarding careers for First Responders, focusing on community safety and support services. Their services span Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They provide a caring environment and the chance to impact lives positively.


  5. Allied Universal
    Average Salary: $48,356
    Allied Universal provides diverse First Responder roles, offering opportunities nationwide. Major locations include Chicago, Houston, and San Francisco. Employees enjoy a supportive work culture and the chance to make a difference in their communities.


  6. RHA Health Services
    Average Salary: $46,000
    RHA Health Services offers essential First Responder positions, focusing on healthcare and emergency support. They operate in various locations across the United States, including Atlanta, Georgia, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Employees benefit from a supportive environment and the chance to help others in need.


  7. Rural Metro
    Average Salary: $44,320
    Rural Metro provides essential emergency services across rural and urban areas. They serve locations in Arizona, Florida, and Texas. Employees enjoy the chance to make a real difference in their communities, along with a supportive work environment.


  8. Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare offers rewarding roles for First Responders, focusing on mental health and emergency services. Their services span Evansville, Indiana, and the surrounding areas. Employees benefit from a supportive environment and the chance to impact lives positively.


  9. On-Site Health & Safety
    Average Salary: $40,000
    On-Site Health & Safety provides essential First Responder services, focusing on workplace safety and emergency response. They operate in several states, including California and New York. Employees enjoy a supportive environment and the chance to make a difference in their communities.


  10. All County Ambulance
    Average Salary: $35,480
    All County Ambulance offers essential First Responder roles, providing emergency medical services across Florida. Key locations include Miami and Orlando. Employees benefit from a supportive work culture and the chance to help others in their communities.

How to earn more as a First Responder?

Earning more as a first responder involves a combination of dedication, education, and strategy. One effective path is to pursue advanced certifications that open doors to higher-paying roles. These certifications can include specialized training in areas like advanced cardiac life support, hazardous materials handling, or tactical medicine. Another factor is gaining experience in high-demand areas such as urban search and rescue, emergency medical services, or firefighting in regions with a high risk of natural disasters.

Location also plays a crucial role in determining pay. First responders in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living often earn more than those in rural areas. Additionally, seeking opportunities in government agencies, private corporations, or international organizations can lead to higher salaries. Networking with other professionals and staying informed about industry trends can also help uncover higher-paying positions. Lastly, advancing to leadership roles such as supervisor or manager can significantly increase earning potential.

Investing in continuous education and professional development ensures that a first responder remains competitive in the job market. This can include attending workshops, seminars, and obtaining degrees in related fields such as emergency management or public health. Keeping skills sharp and up-to-date not only improves job performance but also enhances earning opportunities.

  1. Pursue advanced certifications
  2. Gain experience in high-demand areas
  3. Consider location and industry sector
  4. Advance to leadership roles
  5. Invest in continuous education

Currently 196 First Responder job openings, nationwide.

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First Responder
196 Job Openings