Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Firefighters in San Diego get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Diego metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $64,300 | $48,800 | $83,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $79,900 | $60,700 | $103,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $91,900 | $69,800 | $119,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $110,200 | $83,700 | $143,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $124,900 | $94,900 | $162,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Firefighters — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Firefighter salary in the San Diego metro is $91,900 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $69,800 to $119,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $151,600 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -17% relative to the California 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.
San Diego vs. national: +37%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Firefighters — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Firefighter salary of $91,900 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Firefighters in San Diego start around $64,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $110,200 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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