Emergency Medical Technicians: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 177,980 emergency medical technicians, and they earn a median of $41,340/year. The range runs from $31K to $61K. Hawaii pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level emergency medical technicians start around $31K. The gap between that and the median ($41K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $61K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $61K | 550 |
| Alaska | $57K | 290 |
| New Jersey | $50K | 5,630 |
| Rhode Island | $50K | 520 |
| Washington | $49K | 3,280 |
| Oregon | $48K | 1,760 |
| Connecticut | $48K | 2,100 |
| Maryland | $47K | 2,970 |
| New York | $46K | 14,350 |
| Massachusetts | $46K | 4,270 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a emergency medical technicians make?▼
The median emergency medical technicians salary in the United States is $41,340 per year ($20/hour). Entry-level positions start around $31,410, while experienced professionals earn up to $60,780.
What education do you need to become a emergency medical technicians?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for emergency medical technicians?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for emergency medical technicians.
What are the highest paying states for emergency medical technicians?▼
The highest paying states for emergency medical technicians are Hawaii ($61,310), Alaska ($56,900), New Jersey ($49,500), Rhode Island ($49,500), Washington ($48,850). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.