Firefighter salary in Illinois
A firefighter in Illinois earns an estimated $58,500 a year (about $28.13/hour) — roughly 3% above the US median. Here's how it breaks down, and how long it takes to get there.
| Estimated Illinois median | $58,500 |
| Entry level | $31,000 |
| Experienced | $96,000+ |
| US median (for comparison) | $57,000 |
Estimate: national median adjusted for Illinois's wage level (+3%). Not a survey figure for Illinois specifically — see official state BLS OEWS data or local listings for exact pay.
Firefighter pay in Illinois — FAQ
How much does a firefighter make in Illinois?
A firefighter in Illinois earns an estimated $58,500 a year (about $28.13/hour), roughly 3% above the US median. Most fall between roughly $31,000 and $96,000 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 Illinois?
About the same as anywhere in the US — about 1–2 years (Academy + EMT certification). Licensing details can vary by state, so confirm Illinois'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.