Firefighter Salary in Oklahoma City, OK: $51,244 (2024)
Official 2024 BLS Data | $24.64/hour | $34,204 - $75,226 range
Median Annual Salary
$51,244
Hourly Rate
$24.64
/hour
Jobs in Area
269
employed
Compare to Other Cities
See All →Oklahoma City, OK
$51,244
San Jose, CA
$78,827
in San Jose, CA
Firefighter Salary Range in Oklahoma City, OK
Annual Salary Range
$34k
10th percentile
$41k
25th
$61k
75th
$75k
90th percentile
Salary Breakdown by Percentile
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $34,204 | $16.44 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,184 | $19.80 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $51,244 | $24.64 |
| 75th Percentile | $61,124 | $29.39 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $75,226 | $36.17 |
| Average (Mean) | $55,298 | $26.59 |
Firefighter Market Insights for Oklahoma City, OK
Compensation Overview
Firefighter compensation in Oklahoma City, OK aligns with regional expectations. The salary range from $34,204 to $75,226 provides a clear picture of earning potential at different career stages.
Local Market Context
Oklahoma City, OK offers a lower cost of living compared to major coastal metros, meaning your salary stretches further here. Many professionals find that moderate salaries in Oklahoma provide comparable or better quality of life than higher-paying positions in expensive cities.
Cost of Living Impact
After adjusting for local cost of living, your effective purchasing power is approximately 12% higher than the nominal salary suggests. This means Oklahoma City, OK offers strong real earning potential for this role.
Career Outlook
The Firefighter profession offers diverse career opportunities across industries. Professional development and continuous learning are key factors in advancing within this field. With a 120% salary range from entry-level to top earners, there is substantial room for financial growth as you advance in your career.
Tips for Increasing Your Salary
- •Develop specialized expertise to command higher compensation—top earners make 47% more than median salaries
- •Build a professional network through industry associations and local business groups
- •Pursue relevant certifications or advanced education to demonstrate expertise
-10%
vs National Avg
-3%
vs State Avg
120%
Salary Range
269
Jobs in Area
Career Path & Salary Progression
Typical Firefighter salary growth in Oklahoma City, OK based on experience level.
Entry Level
0-2 years10th percentile
$34,204
/year
Early Career
2-5 years25th percentile
$41,184
/year
Mid Career
5-10 years50th percentile
$51,244
/year
Senior
10-15 years75th percentile
$61,124
/year
Expert
15+ years90th percentile
$75,226
/year
Note: Career progression and salary growth vary based on company size, industry, skills, and performance. These estimates use percentile data from the BLS as a general guide for typical career paths.
Firefighter Job Market in Oklahoma City, OK
Where Firefighters Work
Firefighters work across multiple industries including corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms. Each sector offers different compensation structures and career trajectories.
Local Employment Landscape
Employment in this occupation is more limited in Oklahoma City, OK compared to larger metros. Professionals may find opportunities concentrated among fewer employers, making employer research and networking particularly valuable.
Types of Employers Hiring
Large Corporations
Typically offer comprehensive benefits, structured advancement, and competitive base salaries with bonus potential
Small to Medium Businesses
May provide more responsibility earlier in your career, flexible work arrangements, and equity opportunities
Government Agencies
Known for job security, excellent benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance
Professional Services Firms
Provide client exposure, rapid skill development, and often above-market compensation for top performers
Skills That Increase Earning Potential
Job Search Strategy for Oklahoma City, OK
- •Research major employers in the Oklahoma City area and follow them on LinkedIn for job alerts
- •Join local professional associations for networking and job leads specific to Oklahoma
- •Tailor your salary expectations based on the Oklahoma City, OK market rate of $51,244
- •Consider roles at varying experience levels—entry positions start at $34,204 in this market
Firefighter Career Overview in Oklahoma City, OK
The job market for Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK is emerging, with approximately 269 professionals employed across the metropolitan area. This represents a growing presence of Firefighter positions, reflecting the region's economic base and employer diversity in Oklahoma City, OK. While salaries run about 10% below the national median, the lower cost of living in Oklahoma City, OK helps offset the gap in real purchasing power.
Oklahoma City, OK's diverse economy supports protective services roles across multiple sectors including healthcare, education, government, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. Major employers in Oklahoma range from large corporations and hospital systems to mid-size regional firms and growing startups. This employer diversity provides career stability and mobility, as professionals can advance their careers without necessarily relocating. The mix of public and private sector opportunities also creates varied compensation structures, with some employers offering lower base salaries but stronger benefits and job security.
The growth outlook for Firefighter positions in Oklahoma City, OK is projected to remain stable with opportunities tied to local economic growth and industry trends. With 269 current positions and a median salary of $51,244, the market provides a solid foundation for career development. Professionals who invest in continuing education and stay current with industry developments position themselves for both job security and upward salary mobility. The combination of Oklahoma City, OK's economic trajectory and broader industry trends suggests that qualified Firefighters will continue to find opportunities in this market over the coming years.
One of Oklahoma City, OK's strongest advantages for Firefighters is the favorable cost of living (index: 89.5). The median salary of $51,244 delivers approximately $57,256 in purchasing power when adjusted for local costs. This enhanced buying power means professionals here can often achieve a higher quality of life, build savings faster, and invest more compared to counterparts in expensive coastal metros who earn nominally higher salaries. For Firefighters who can work remotely or find comparable roles locally, this market offers compelling financial advantages.
The Protective Services field in Oklahoma City, OK benefits from the region's broader economic ecosystem. Local industry associations, professional networking groups, and continuing education opportunities through area universities and community colleges help Firefighters stay connected and advance their careers. Oklahoma's business incentive programs and workforce development initiatives also play a role in attracting employers and creating positions. For Firefighters early in their career, Oklahoma City, OK offers the chance to build a professional network in a market where individual contributions are often more visible than in the largest metros, potentially accelerating career progression.
Firefighter Compensation Deep Dive in Oklahoma City, OK
The salary range for Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK spans from $34,204 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $75,226 for top earners (90th percentile), a spread of $41,022. This 120% differential reflects the significant impact that experience, specialization, credentials, and employer type have on compensation in this field. The median salary of $51,244 sits at the midpoint of the market, representing what a Firefighter with moderate experience and standard qualifications can expect. The 25th percentile ($41,184) typically corresponds to early-career professionals with 1-3 years of experience, while the 75th percentile ($61,124) reflects seasoned professionals with specialized skills or management responsibilities.
Base salary tells only part of the compensation story for Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK. Total compensation packages commonly include health insurance (valued at $6,000-$15,000 annually for employer contributions), retirement plan matching (typically 3-6% of salary, worth $2,050 per year at the median), paid time off (averaging 15-20 days), and in some cases performance bonuses, stock options, or professional development allowances. When evaluating job offers, Firefighters should request a total compensation breakdown. A position paying $41,184 with strong benefits may deliver more value than one paying $51,244 with minimal perks.
Cost of living directly impacts how far a Firefighter's salary goes in Oklahoma City, OK. With a local cost-of-living index of 89.5 (where 100 equals the national average), the median salary of $51,244 provides purchasing power equivalent to approximately $57,256 in an average-cost U.S. city. This favorable cost structure means Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK enjoy more disposable income than the base salary suggests. Housing, groceries, and services all cost less here, amplifying the value of each dollar earned.
Negotiating Firefighter compensation in Oklahoma City, OK requires market awareness. The gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles ($41,184 to $61,124) represents the most common negotiation range. Candidates with in-demand certifications, niche expertise, or competing offers have the strongest leverage. In this market, there may be room to push offers closer to national benchmarks, especially for candidates willing to reference out-of-market salary data. Asking for a salary review after 6-12 months, signing bonuses, or additional PTO are effective alternatives when base salary flexibility is limited. On an hourly basis, Firefighters in this market earn between $16 and $36 per hour, with the median at $25.
Firefighter Career Path & Growth in Oklahoma City, OK
The career trajectory for Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK shows significant earning potential over time. Entry-level professionals start around $34,204, while top earners reach $75,226, representing a 2.2x increase from start to peak. This progression typically unfolds over 10-20 years and is driven by accumulating expertise, taking on leadership responsibilities, developing specializations, and building a professional reputation. In Oklahoma City, OK's protective services market, professionals who demonstrate consistent performance improvements and take on increasingly complex projects advance most quickly. Mid-career transitions into management, consulting, or entrepreneurship can also accelerate earnings beyond the standard progression curve.
Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK who are exploring career pivots or complementary roles should consider positions such as related professionals in the same field, supervisory roles, and cross-functional positions. These adjacent occupations often share transferable skills and can offer different compensation structures, work environments, or growth trajectories. In Oklahoma City, OK's job market, professionals who develop cross-functional capabilities spanning multiple related roles tend to be more resilient to market shifts and better positioned for leadership opportunities. Lateral moves can also provide valuable perspective that strengthens a professional's long-term career trajectory.
The skills most in demand for Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK include industry-specific technical competencies, communication and collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability to new tools and processes. Employers in Oklahoma City, OK value professionals who combine deep subject-matter expertise with the ability to work effectively across teams and adapt to evolving industry requirements. Pursuing relevant professional certifications can provide a measurable salary boost of 5-15% and signal commitment to the field. Continuous learning through industry conferences, online courses, and professional associations helps Firefighters stay competitive in Oklahoma City, OK's evolving job market.
More Questions About Firefighter Salaries in Oklahoma City, OK
What is the starting salary for a Firefighter in Oklahoma City, OK?
Entry-level Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK (10th percentile) earn approximately $34,204 per year, or about $2,850 per month. The 25th percentile, representing early-career professionals with some experience, earns $41,184. These figures reflect base salary only; new hires may also receive benefits worth an additional 20-30% of base pay. Building specialized skills and pursuing relevant certifications are the fastest paths to moving beyond entry-level compensation.
How much do experienced Firefighters make in Oklahoma City, OK?
Experienced Firefighters at the 75th percentile earn $61,124 annually in Oklahoma City, OK, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $75,226. The jump from median ($51,244) to 75th percentile represents a 19% increase, typically achieved through 5-10 years of experience, management responsibilities, or specialized expertise. Senior professionals who combine technical depth with leadership skills are best positioned for top-tier compensation.
Is Oklahoma City, OK a good city for Firefighters?
Oklahoma City, OK pays below the national average, but the lower cost of living helps offset the difference. With 269 Firefighter positions in the metro area, the market is smaller but can offer less competition and more personal career development. Quality of life, industry presence, and long-term career trajectory should all factor into your evaluation alongside salary data.
How does Firefighter pay in Oklahoma City, OK compare to the national average?
The median Firefighter salary in Oklahoma City, OK is $51,244, which is 10% lower than the national median of $57,120. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective purchasing power is $57,256, which provides a more accurate comparison. Within Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK ranks at a competitive level for this occupation.
What benefits do Firefighters typically receive in Oklahoma City, OK?
Beyond base salary, Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement contributions (401k matching of 3-6%), paid time off (15-25 days annually), and sometimes performance bonuses or profit sharing. The total value of benefits often adds 25-35% on top of base salary, meaning a Firefighter earning the median of $51,244 may receive total compensation of $66,617 or more. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development budgets, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programs.
What skills are most in demand for Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK?
Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK who command the highest salaries typically combine core technical competencies with strong communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. Employers in this market particularly value professionals who can demonstrate measurable impact, whether through revenue generation, cost savings, process improvements, or team leadership. Certifications relevant to the Protective Services field can increase earning potential by 5-15%. Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies is essential for career advancement and salary growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
The median firefighter salary in Oklahoma City, OK is $51,244 per year ($24.64/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $34,204 for entry-level positions to $75,226 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.
Entry-level firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK typically start at around $34,204 per year ($16.44/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 $51,244 within 3-5 years.
Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK earn a median hourly wage of $24.64 per hour. Hourly rates range from $16.44/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $36.17/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $34,204 and $75,226.
The median firefighter salary of $51,244 in Oklahoma City, OK is below the national median of $57,120 (10.3% lower). Plus, the cost of living is 11% below the national average, stretching your salary further. This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of firefighters in the area earn more and half earn less.
Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK earn below the national average. The local median salary of $51,244 is 10.3% lower than the national median of $57,120. Plus, the cost of living is 11% below the national average, stretching your salary further. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $57,256.
The top 10% of firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK earn $75,226 or more per year ($36.17/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $61,124, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.
Key skills that can boost firefighter salary in Oklahoma City, OK 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 $51,244, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($61,124) or higher. Years of relevant experience
Oklahoma City, OK has a specialized job market for firefighters, with approximately 269 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $51,244 is below the national average. Plus, the cost of living is 11% below the national average, stretching your salary further. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.
Compare your firefighter salary to these Oklahoma City, OK benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $34,204, 25th percentile: $41,184, 50th percentile (median): $51,244, 75th percentile: $61,124, 90th percentile (top earners): $75,226. If you earn more than $51,244, you're above average for the area.
Beyond the $51,244 median base salary, firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK 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 Oklahoma City, OK typically earn $61,124 (75th percentile) to $75,226 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $75,226. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $51,244.
Firefighters in Oklahoma City, OK can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($34,204) to median ($51,244) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($75,226) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $41,022 over a career.
Data Source & Methodology
Official government statistics you can trust
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Program
Visit Official BLS WebsiteData Year
2024
2 Years Old
Geographic Area
Oklahoma City
Metropolitan Statistical Area
Occupation Code
33-2011
SOC Classification
Sample Size
269
Employees Surveyed
How This Data Is Collected
The OEWS program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations across all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Approximately 1.1 million establishments are surveyed over a three-year period, representing the most comprehensive wage data available for the U.S. labor market.
Note: Percentile wages represent actual reported wages and may differ from individual compensation packages that include benefits, bonuses, and equity.
Last updated: January 23, 2026
Salary Calculator
Firefighter in Oklahoma City, OK
Enter your salary above to see how you compare
Median: $51,244/yr
How Oklahoma City, OK Compares
vs National Average
$57,120
vs Oklahoma Average
$52,914
Cost-of-Living Adjusted
$57,256
Cost of living in Oklahoma City, OK is 10.5% below the national average.
Firefighter Salaries in Other Cities
Other Salaries in Oklahoma City, OK
Explore More
Firefighter Jobs in Oklahoma City, OK
Find open positions and apply today.
View Jobs on IndeedAffiliate link