Firefighter Salary in Paterson, NJ
How much does a firefighter make in Paterson? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Paterson's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how firefighter salaries break down across different pay periods in Paterson.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $51,576 | $85,470 | $120,837 |
| Monthly | $4,298 | $7,123 | $10,070 |
| Biweekly | $1,984 | $3,287 | $4,648 |
| Weekly | $992 | $1,644 | $2,324 |
| Hourly | $25 | $41 | $58 |
Paterson vs National Average
How Paterson's firefighter salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Paterson
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 Paterson, NJ — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a firefighter in Paterson, NJ is $85,470 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 118. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Paterson's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level firefighter professionals in Paterson can expect to earn around $51,576 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level firefighters earning approximately $120,837 per year. This represents a 134% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Paterson's cost of living index of 118 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Paterson 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 Paterson typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,400 per month, housing represents about 19.7% 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 Paterson, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.