Outdoor lifestyle, aerospace, tech relocation magnet. Here's how Firefighters in Denver get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Denver metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $55,300 | $42,000 | $71,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $68,700 | $52,200 | $89,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $79,000 | $60,000 | $102,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $94,800 | $72,000 | $123,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $107,400 | $81,600 | $139,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Firefighters — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Denver metro economy.
The average Firefighter salary in the Denver metro is $79,000 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $60,000 to $102,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $130,300 or more.
Yes — Denver pays +1% relative to the Colorado 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.
Denver vs. national: +18%. That puts Denver among the stronger US markets for Firefighters — though cost of living in Denver is also typically elevated.
In Denver, the median Firefighter salary of $79,000 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Firefighters in Denver start around $55,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $94,800 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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