Tech epicenter — highest tech wages on Earth. Here's how Firefighters in San Francisco get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Francisco metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $76,300 | $58,000 | $99,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $94,800 | $72,100 | $123,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $109,000 | $82,900 | $141,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $130,800 | $99,400 | $170,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $148,200 | $112,700 | $192,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Firefighters — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Francisco metro economy.
The average Firefighter salary in the San Francisco metro is $109,000 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $82,900 to $141,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $179,900 or more.
Yes — San Francisco pays -1% 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 Francisco vs. national: +62%. That puts San Francisco among the stronger US markets for Firefighters — though cost of living in San Francisco is also typically elevated.
In San Francisco, the median Firefighter salary of $109,000 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Firefighters in San Francisco start around $76,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $130,800 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.
Get my personal salary report →