10 Best States for Paramedics
Paramedics are some of the most in-demand professionals in the healthcare industry. According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, job growth for paramedics is expected to experience a 6% jump from 2019 to 2029.
For many paramedics, the adrenaline rush, drive to make a difference in their community, and saving lives are great motivators to fully embrace their profession—and do it well. For those thinking of exploring different locations to reinforce their skills and dedication to the job, here are the states where demand for paramedics is high.
Top States for Paramedics, By Demand
- Texas
Texas is well known for its provision of qualified pre-hospital care and emergency medical transportation with the help of its communities. Being one of the largest faith-based healthcare systems in the U.S., they provide services to seven million North Texas residents, including Dallas/Fort Worth and nearby communities.
Like every other state, the population and economy are constantly growing, and so is the demand for medical professionals. Texas is looking for 1,113 paramedics and offers an average annual salary of $42,963, with the lowest ten percent earning $28,000 and the highest ten percent, $64,000.
Texas Emergency Medical Services respond to an average of 7,200 calls every year. They religiously follow the Studer Principles and make sure they uphold critical values in delivering the best care for their people.
- Florida
The state of Florida needs to fill 851 paramedic jobs with an average yearly salary of $39,468. The lowest ten percent earn an average of $25,000, and the top 10% can earn up to $60,000 every year.
- California
Many EMT and paramedic jobs in California require certification and licensing. There are about 567 paramedic jobs in California, with an average salary of $51,107. California projects the number of paramedics and EMTs to increase over the next couple of years due to population growth, an increasing number of those uninsured, the aging population, and increasing urbanization with homelessness. One study found that ambulance use among the uninsured was higher in urbanized areas, increasing the demand for paramedics.
- Georgia
Georgia’s paramedic licenses are issued by the Department of Public Health. The state currently needs to fill around 523 paramedic jobs that have an average annual salary of $44,433. Those with top skills and experience can earn up to $69,000. A paramedic career in Georgia requires cognitive and practical examinations to meet state-specific requirements.
- New York
The Bureau of Emergency Medical Services in New York gives certifications for paramedics and EMTs, which form a part of the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). Interested individuals should undergo formal training and certification through courses approved by the NYSDOH.
New York now has 428 paramedic job vacancies and offers an average annual salary of $48,691.
- Pennsylvania
To become a certified paramedic in Pennsylvania, you must obtain EMT and CPR certification. Pennsylvania has 425 open paramedic jobs with an average annual salary of $43,680.
- Indiana
Indiana has 800 provider agencies, 24,000 emergency medical personnel, and 2,000 ambulances. There are currently 397 open paramedic jobs, providing an average salary of $43,281. The highest ten percent can earn an annual salary of $70,000, while the lowest ten percent can earn $26,000.
- North Carolina
North Carolina paramedics are under the jurisdiction of the Office of Emergency Medical Technicians (OEMTs), with the title Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P).
To become a paramedic in North Carolina, you must complete an educational program and undergo a series of examinations.
There are 392 vacant paramedic jobs in North Carolina, with an average salary of $46,267.
- Ohio
In the Northwest Ohio area, the demand for both EMTs and paramedics remains high. To date, there are about 350 vacancies for paramedics alone. To practice in Ohio, a national accreditation from the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP) is necessary. Paramedics in Ohio earn an average salary of $40,868.
- New Jersey
Over the years, a lot has changed in emergency medical services in New Jersey. Paramedics have become so vital in the state that they currently have 341 job vacancies. According to Salary.com, the average paramedic salary in New Jersey is $49,943, which can grow to $61,624 for those in the 90th percentile.
Paramedical services used to be limited to transporting patients to and from the hospital. Today, EMT roles have become so complex and challenging that states now require more training, certifications, and continuing education. Check out our comprehensive paramedic program to learn how to become a paramedic.
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