Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Firefighters in Chicago get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Chicago metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $53,000 | $40,300 | $68,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $65,900 | $50,100 | $85,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $75,800 | $57,600 | $98,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $90,900 | $69,100 | $118,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $103,000 | $78,300 | $133,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Firefighters — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Firefighter salary in the Chicago metro is $75,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $57,600 to $98,500 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $125,000 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Firefighters. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Chicago vs. national: +13%. That puts Chicago among the stronger US markets for Firefighters — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Firefighter salary of $75,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Firefighters in Chicago start around $53,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $90,900 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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