Fastest-growing major Florida metro, finance + healthcare. Here's how Firefighters in Tampa get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Tampa metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $47,800 | $36,400 | $62,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $59,500 | $45,200 | $77,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $68,400 | $52,000 | $88,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $82,000 | $62,400 | $106,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $93,000 | $70,700 | $120,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Firefighters — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Tampa metro economy.
The average Firefighter salary in the Tampa metro is $68,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $52,000 to $88,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $112,900 or more.
Yes — Tampa pays +0% relative to the Florida 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.
Tampa vs. national: +2%. Tampa pays roughly in line with the national average for Firefighters. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Tampa, the median Firefighter salary of $68,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Firefighters in Tampa start around $47,800, while seniors (10+ years) reach $82,000 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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