New Hampshire Firefighter Salary (2026) – Pay Scale, Overtime, Benefits & Verified Comparison
New Hampshire firefighter compensation should be compared using verified department pay scales, schedule design, overtime policies, and benefit deductions. This guide helps you evaluate total compensation without relying on uncertain averages.
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Key principle: compare like-for-like—same rank/step and schedule assumptions—then analyze overtime and deductions.
What Drives Pay in New Hampshire
- Rank/step plan: step progression and promotions drive earnings over time.
- Schedule structure: overtime calculation and premium rules matter for annual totals.
- Overtime policy: assignment rules, callbacks/holdovers, and caps determine realistic overtime.
- Benefits/deductions: retirement and healthcare contributions affect net pay.
Overtime and Incentives: What to Verify
- How overtime is assigned and whether it’s capped
- Callback/holdover minimums
- Any incentives for certifications or specialty roles
How to Compare Departments in New Hampshire
- Match rank/step.
- Confirm schedule and overtime calculation method.
- Estimate realistic overtime based on policy and staffing.
- Subtract deductions.
- Compare purchasing power using housing and commuting costs.
FAQ
What’s the most reliable pay source?
The department’s official pay scale by rank/step plus documentation on overtime rules and benefits/deductions.
Why are averages unreliable?
Because schedules, overtime rules, and deductions vary significantly by department.




