Firefighters Jobs Pay in Knoxville, TN

Average Hourly Pay

$25.49
20.3%Below national average

Range: $24.28 - $26.71

Average Annual Pay

$53,028
20.3%Below national average

Range: $50,502 - $55,553

Entry-level
$45,074/per year
Top 10%
$55,553+/per year

Methodology: These figures are estimated from limited publicly available salary data.

Average Hourly Pay

$25.49
20.3%Below national average

Range: $24.28 - $26.71

How much does a Firefighter make in Knoxville, TN?

The average annual salary for a firefighter in Knoxville, TN is $53,028 per year. If you prefer to look at it hourly, that works out to about $25.49 per hour. This is roughly equivalent to $1,020 per week or $4,419 per month, depending on hours worked.

Salary range for firefighters in Knoxville, TN

Min25%Median75%Max
25th
$45k
75th
$53k
Top 10%
$56k

Firefighters salaries in Knoxville, TN can vary depending on experience, certifications, location within the state, and the type of work performed.

While some salaries can reach as high as $55,553, entry-level or lower-paid roles may start around $50,502 annually.

The difference between the lower and higher ends of the pay range for firefighters in Knoxville, TN — about $7,954 between the 25th and 75th percentiles — suggests there may be opportunities for firefighters to increase their earnings over time through additional training, certifications, and years of experience.

Top-paying cities for firefighters around Knoxville, TN

While the average salary for a firefighters in Knoxville, TN is $53,028 per year, some cities across the state offer higher earning potential.

Based on available salary data, 3 cities report average firefighters salaries above the statewide average.

Leading the list is Arizona, followed by Alaska and Memphis, which also rank among the top-paying locations for firefighters in the state.

Arizona stands out with firefighters earning around $10,679 more than the statewide average, or about 20% higher.

In Alaska and Memphis, average salaries are about $9,587 higher than the Knoxville, TN average, representing roughly a 18% increase.

Because several cities offer salaries above the state average, firefighters may find opportunities to increase their earnings by working in higher-paying areas within Knoxville, TN.

Factors such as local demand for skilled professionals, cost of living, and the type of work available can influence these differences.

Firefighters pay in Knoxville, TN by experience level

Salaries for firefighters in Knoxville, TN often increase as professionals gain more experience, develop specialized skills, and take on greater responsibilities.

Entry Level0-2 years
Hourly Rate$21.67/hrRange: $24.28 – $21.67
Annual Rate$45,074Range: $50,502 $45,074

Entry-level firefighters (0-2 years) typically earn lower salaries while gaining practical experience and learning the basics of the role. At this stage, pay usually averages around $50,502 – $45,074 per year, depending on the employer, industry, and location.

Mid level3-6 years
Hourly Rate$25.49/hrRange: $21.67 – $29.31
Annual Rate$53,028Range: $45,074 $60,982

Mid-level firefighters (3-6 years) often see higher earnings as they build expertise and may take on more complex tasks or independent work. Many professionals in this stage earn approximately $45,074 – $60,982 annually.

Senior level7+ years
Hourly Rate$29.31/hrRange: $29.31 – $26.71
Annual Rate$60,982Range: $60,982 $55,553

Experienced firefighters (7+ years) generally earn the highest salaries. With advanced skills, leadership responsibilities, or specialized knowledge, pay can reach $60,982 – $55,553 per year.

Key factors that affect pay of firefighters in Knoxville, TN

Several factors can influence how much firefighters earn in Knoxville, TN, even when the average salary is around $53,028 per year.

Experience level is one of the biggest drivers of pay. Entry-level workers typically earn closer to $45,074, while experienced professionals can make $60,982+ annually.

Location within the region also plays a role. In higher-paying cities salaries can be higher than the regional average due to stronger demand and local economic conditions.

Industry and specialization can further impact earnings. Professionals working in specialized areas or large-scale projects often earn more than those in entry-level or general roles.

Together, these factors create a wide salary range for firefighters in Knoxville, TN, giving experienced professionals opportunities to increase their earnings over time.

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Highest paying cities for firefighters in other states

FAQs about Firefighter in Knoxville, TN

Do firefighters make good money in Knoxville, TN?

Whether or not you think firefighters pay well might depend on your specific situation and needs. The average salary for firefighters in Knoxville, TN is about $53,028 per year, or roughly $25.49 per hour. Entry-level professionals typically earn around $45,074 annually, while experienced workers can earn $60,982 or more per year depending on experience and specialization.

Can firefighters make $60,000 a year in Knoxville, TN?

Yes, some can. While the average salary is around $53,028, top-earning firefighters in Knoxville, TN can make about $55,553 or more annually. Professionals with advanced certifications, specialized skills, or leadership roles are more likely to reach this level of pay.

Is $55,000 a good salary for a firefighter in Knoxville, TN?

A salary of $55,000 is close to the average for firefighters in Knoxville, TN. Most professionals in this role earn between $45,074 and $60,982 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location.

How much does a starting firefighter make in Knoxville, TN?

Entry-level firefighters in Knoxville, TN typically earn around $21.67/hr, which equals roughly $45,074 per year. Starting salaries may vary based on training, certifications, and the employer.

How much does a licensed or certified firefighter make in Knoxville, TN?

Licensed or certified firefighters in Knoxville, TN earn about $53,028 per year on average, with typical salaries ranging between $45,074 and $60,982 annually. Highly experienced professionals can earn $55,553 or more.

What is the hourly pay for firefighters in Knoxville, TN?

The average hourly pay for firefighters in Knoxville, TN is about $25.49 per hour. Entry-level workers may earn closer to $21.67, while experienced professionals can earn $29.31+ per hour.

What is the salary range for firefighters in Knoxville, TN?

Most firefighters in Knoxville, TN earn between $45,074 and $60,982 per year, while the top 10% earn more than $55,553 annually.

How fast does pay increase for firefighters?

Pay for firefighters typically increases with experience. Many professionals see earnings grow from around $45,074 early in their careers to $60,982+ after several years of experience.
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