Firefighter Salary in Wilkes-Barre, PA
How much does a firefighter make in Wilkes-Barre? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Wilkes-Barre's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how firefighter salaries break down across different pay periods in Wilkes-Barre.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $29,066 | $48,167 | $68,099 |
| Monthly | $2,422 | $4,014 | $5,675 |
| Biweekly | $1,118 | $1,853 | $2,619 |
| Weekly | $559 | $926 | $1,310 |
| Hourly | $14 | $23 | $33 |
Wilkes-Barre vs National Average
How Wilkes-Barre's firefighter salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Wilkes-Barre
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 Wilkes-Barre, PA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a firefighter in Wilkes-Barre, PA is $48,167 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 84. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Wilkes-Barre's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level firefighter professionals in Wilkes-Barre can expect to earn around $29,066 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level firefighters earning approximately $68,099 per year. This represents a 134% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Wilkes-Barre's cost of living index of 84 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Wilkes-Barre 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 Wilkes-Barre typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $800 per month, housing represents about 19.9% 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 Wilkes-Barre, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.