Connecticut Firefighter Salary (2026) – Pay Scale, Contract Factors, Overtime & Benefits
Last updated:
Connecticut firefighter compensation is often shaped by local agreements and department-specific pay scales. This guide explains how to compare departments using verifiable inputs: rank/step, schedule, overtime policies, and benefit deductions.
Compare all states:Firefighter Salary by State Hub · Tool:Salary Comparison Tool
What Drives Pay in Connecticut
- Local pay scale: steps and promotions are typically the core pay drivers.
- Contract language: differentials, holiday pay, and overtime rules may be contract-defined.
- Schedule structure: overtime calculation and built-in premium rules vary.
- Benefits and deductions: retirement and healthcare contributions directly affect take-home pay.
Overtime and Differentials
Before you compare two departments, confirm how overtime is assigned, whether there are minimum callback/holdover rules, and how premium pay is applied for holidays or specialty assignments.
Benefits and Retirement
Request benefit summaries and employee contribution rates. Retirement terms and healthcare premiums can materially change the total value of an offer.
How to Compare Two Connecticut Departments
- Match rank/step and confirm probation vs permanent pay.
- Confirm schedule design and overtime calculation method.
- Estimate realistic overtime based on staffing policy.
- Subtract retirement and healthcare deductions to estimate net pay.
- Compare purchasing power based on local housing and commuting.
FAQ
Is comparing by state enough for Connecticut?
State-level comparisons can help you narrow options, but Connecticut pay is often driven by local department scales and contracts. Department-level verification is essential.
What documents should I request?
Ask for the current pay scale, overtime policy summary, and benefits/deduction information (retirement and healthcare contribution rates).
