How much does a First Responder make?
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
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. 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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. They focus on safety and security. They operate in various locations, including California and Texas.
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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.
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Pacific Clinics
Average Salary: $72,227
Pacific Clinics offers First Responder jobs with a focus on mental health. They operate in California and Hawaii.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Allied Universal
Average Salary: $48,002
Allied Universal offers First Responder jobs with a focus on security services. They operate nationwide.
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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.
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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.
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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.
- Obtain specialized certifications
- Gain more experience
- Choose higher-paying locations
- Pursue advanced education
- Seek promotions



