Firefighter Salary in Los Angeles, CA: $65,236 (2024)

The median firefighter salary in Los Angeles, CA is $65,236 per year ($31.36/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $43,705 for entry-level positions to $95,506 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.

Entry-level firefighters in Los Angeles, CA typically start at around $43,705 per year ($21.01/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $65,236 within 3-5 years.

Firefighters in Los Angeles, CA earn a median hourly wage of $31.36 per hour. Hourly rates range from $21.01/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $45.92/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $43,705 and $95,506.

The median firefighter salary of $65,236 in Los Angeles, CA is well above the national median of $57,120 (14.2% higher). However, the cost of living is 46% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of firefighters in the area earn more and half earn less.

Firefighters in Los Angeles, CA earn well above the national average. The local median salary of $65,236 is 14.2% higher than the national median of $57,120. However, the cost of living is 46% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $44,591.

The top 10% of firefighters in Los Angeles, CA earn $95,506 or more per year ($45.92/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $80,605, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.

Key skills that can boost firefighter salary in Los Angeles, CA include: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, Problem-solving and critical thinking, Technical proficiency relevant to the field, Attention to detail and organizational skills. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $65,236, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($80,605) or higher. Years of relevant experience

Los Angeles, CA has a specialized job market for firefighters, with approximately 414 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $65,236 is well above the national average. However, the cost of living is 46% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.

Compare your firefighter salary to these Los Angeles, CA benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $43,705, 25th percentile: $54,414, 50th percentile (median): $65,236, 75th percentile: $80,605, 90th percentile (top earners): $95,506. If you earn more than $65,236, you're above average for the area.

Beyond the $65,236 median base salary, firefighters in Los Angeles, CA typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.

Experienced firefighters with 5-10 years in Los Angeles, CA typically earn $80,605 (75th percentile) to $95,506 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $95,506. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $65,236.

Firefighters in Los Angeles, CA can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($43,705) to median ($65,236) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($95,506) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $51,801 over a career.