How Firefighters in New Jersey get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical New Jersey compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $59,100 | $44,900 | $76,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $73,500 | $55,800 | $95,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $84,500 | $64,200 | $109,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $101,400 | $77,000 | $131,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $114,900 | $87,300 | $149,300 |
Top occupations by median pay in New Jersey — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in New Jersey
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Firefighter salary in New Jersey is $84,500 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $64,200 and the 75th at $109,800.
Pay-wise, New Jersey sits +26% above the national Firefighter median ($67,100). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Firefighters (10–14 years of experience) in New Jersey earn around $101,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $114,900 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), New Jersey ranks 6th for Firefighter pay. The highest-paying state pays around $110,600 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
Get my personal salary report →