How much do Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists make in California?
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists in California take home a median of $97,370 annually — roughly $46.81 an hour — which runs 71% above the national median of $56,870.
Within California, entry-level pay starts around $56,790 while the top 10% make $169,670 or more. The middle 50% of earners fall between $71,880 and $124,060 a year.
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists salary range in California
| Pay level | Annual salary | Hourly rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry level) | $56,790 | $27.30 | |
| 25th percentile (early career) | $71,880 | $34.56 | |
| 50th percentile (median) | $97,370 | $46.81 | |
| 75th percentile (experienced) | $124,060 | $59.64 | |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $169,670 | $81.57 |
How California compares
California ranks 1st out of 15 states and territories for Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists pay. The top 5 best-paying states:
| Rank | State | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | $97,370 |
| 2 | Utah | $90,020 |
| 3 | Louisiana | $75,480 |
| 4 | Oregon | $73,530 |
| 5 | Maine | $68,310 |
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists salary in other states
Working as Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists in California
Nationally, about 3,000 people work as Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists in the United States. A high school diploma is typically enough, with most skills learned on the job.
Considering a move? Compare California pay ($97,370) against the highest-paying state above, and weigh the difference against housing and everyday costs — a smaller paycheck in a cheaper state can stretch further.
Frequently asked questions
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← See the national Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists salary report