EMT / Paramedic
EMTs & Paramedics
SOC 29-2042
How Much Does an EMT / Paramedic Make?
The national median salary for an EMT / Paramedic is $40,490 per year ($19.47/hour), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data).
That's 38% below the national median salary of $65,470 for all occupations.
How to Become an EMT / Paramedic
EMT-Basic (120-150 hrs). Paramedic requires 1,200+ hrs.
NREMT certification + state license
This career has relatively low barriers to entry compared to similar roles.
EMT / Paramedic Job Outlook
Faster than avg — the BLS projects 5% growth from 2024 to 2034.
That's faster than the average across all occupations (4%).
About 20,100 positions are expected to open annually, from both new roles and replacement needs.
Emergency services demand; population growth
What It's Like to Work as an EMT / Paramedic
Very High
This role typically requires in-person work at a specific location.
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Career data sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2024-34 projections (released August 2025). Salary data: BLS OEWS May 2024.
View on BLS.gov