Firefighter salary in Washington, D.C.
A firefighter in Washington, D.C. earns an estimated $68,500 a year (about $32.93/hour) — roughly 20% above the US median. Here's how it breaks down, and how long it takes to get there.
| Estimated Washington, D.C. median | $68,500 |
| Entry level | $36,000 |
| Experienced | $111,500+ |
| US median (for comparison) | $57,000 |
Estimate: national median adjusted for Washington, D.C.'s wage level (+20%). Not a survey figure for Washington, D.C. specifically — see official state BLS OEWS data or local listings for exact pay.
Firefighter pay in Washington, D.C. — FAQ
How much does a firefighter make in Washington, D.C.?
A firefighter in Washington, D.C. earns an estimated $68,500 a year (about $32.93/hour), roughly 20% above the US median. Most fall between roughly $36,000 and $111,500 depending on experience, employer and city. This is an estimate adjusted from the national median — check local listings for exact pay.
How long does it take to become a firefighter in Washington, D.C.?
About the same as anywhere in the US — about 1–2 years (Academy + EMT certification). Licensing details can vary by state, so confirm Washington, D.C.'s specific requirements with its licensing board.
Firefighter salary in other states
General information only — not career, legal or financial advice. State salary figures are estimates adjusted from national medians and will differ from exact local survey data.