Firefighter Salary in Virginia
Firefighter pay in Virginia, explained
Firefighters in Virginia earn a median of $58,670 per year ($28.21 per hour), which is 1% below the national median of $59,280. Entry-level workers earn around $38,310, while the most experienced firefighters reach about $77,310. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within Virginia.
Is $58,670 good pay in Virginia?
Adjusted for Virginia's cost of living (which runs 101% of the U.S. average), that $58,670 is worth about $58,029 in national buying power — ranking Virginia #24 for real pay (vs #22 on the sticker number).
Firefighter pay by experience in Virginia
Firefighter pay in neighboring states
| State | Median / yr | Real pay | vs VA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia (here) | $58,670 | $58,029 | — |
| District of Columbia | $75,870 | $69,035 | −$17,200 |
| Maryland | $73,810 | $70,323 | −$15,140 |
| Tennessee | $49,300 | $53,663 | +$9,370 |
| North Carolina | $37,940 | $40,222 | +$20,730 |
| West Virginia | $37,350 | $41,733 | +$21,320 |
| Kentucky | $37,150 | $41,205 | +$21,520 |
Firefighter in Virginia: FAQ
How much do firefighters make in Virginia?
Firefighters in Virginia earn a median of $58,670 per year ($28.21 per hour), compared with $59,280 nationally.
Does Virginia pay firefighters well?
At $58,670, Virginia pays 1% below the national median for firefighters. An estimated 11,160 work in the state.