Firefighter Salary in Des Plaines, IL
How much does a firefighter make in Des Plaines? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Des Plaines's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how firefighter salaries break down across different pay periods in Des Plaines.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $38,245 | $63,378 | $89,604 |
| Monthly | $3,187 | $5,282 | $7,467 |
| Biweekly | $1,471 | $2,438 | $3,446 |
| Weekly | $735 | $1,219 | $1,723 |
| Hourly | $18 | $30 | $43 |
Des Plaines vs National Average
How Des Plaines's firefighter salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Des Plaines
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 Des Plaines, IL — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a firefighter in Des Plaines, IL is $63,378 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 100. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Des Plaines's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level firefighter professionals in Des Plaines can expect to earn around $38,245 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level firefighters earning approximately $89,604 per year. This represents a 134% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Des Plaines's cost of living index of 100 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Des Plaines 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 Des Plaines typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,100 per month, housing represents about 20.8% 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 Des Plaines, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.