Average Firefighter Salary in Illinois

Firefighters respond to fires, accidents, medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other hazardous situations to protect lives and property. They are among the most highly respected public servants in the United States, combining physical courage with technical expertise in fire suppression, emergency medical response, and hazardous materials handling. Beyond fighting fires, modern firefighters spend the majority of their shifts on medical calls, public education, and equipment maintenance.

In Illinois, firefighters earn an average of $60,087 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $38,047 for entry-level roles to $87,893 for the most experienced professionals — +5.2% above the national average. Pay is influenced most by paramedic vs. emt certification — paramedics typically earn a 10–20% pay premium, department type — federal firefighters (blm, forest service) and large urban departments pay the most, and the specific metro area within Illinois.