Firefighter Salary in Bellingham, WA
How much does a firefighter make in Bellingham? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Bellingham's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how firefighter salaries break down across different pay periods in Bellingham.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $51,809 | $85,856 | $121,383 |
| Monthly | $4,317 | $7,155 | $10,115 |
| Biweekly | $1,993 | $3,302 | $4,669 |
| Weekly | $996 | $1,651 | $2,334 |
| Hourly | $25 | $41 | $58 |
Bellingham vs National Average
How Bellingham's firefighter salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Bellingham
About Firefighter
Overview
Respond to fires and emergencies to protect lives and property.
Education
High school diploma; firefighter training and certification required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +11% over the next decade
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Firefighter Salary in Bellingham, WA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a firefighter in Bellingham, WA is $85,856 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 127. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Bellingham's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level firefighter professionals in Bellingham can expect to earn around $51,809 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level firefighters earning approximately $121,383 per year. This represents a 134% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Bellingham's cost of living index of 127 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Bellingham are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $60,360, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a firefighter's salary in Bellingham typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,800 per month, housing represents about 25.2% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Firefighters are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 11% over the next decade. In Bellingham, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.