The latest figures show that New York City firefighters and fire officers retiring after full careers are now receiving average annual pensions of $171,336.
This represents a significant 13% increase from the previous year, highlighting how pension payouts for this vital profession have reached unprecedented levels.
1. Record-High Pensions for Full-Career Retirees
In the most recent fiscal year, 430 full-career retirees—those with at least 20 years of service—were awarded pensions averaging $171,336.
- 108 retirees received pensions exceeding $200,000 annually.
- Nearly 95% of these full-career retirees were eligible for six-figure payouts.
This surge reflects a combination of long service, contractual benefits, and additional pension programs that enhance retirement income.
2. Overall FDNY Pension Landscape
Looking beyond just new retirees, the average pension across all 15,958 FDNY retirees (including those with shorter service records) now stands at $98,921.
This is a 51% jump from $65,364 a decade ago, demonstrating the long-term upward trend in firefighter pension benefits.
The number of retirees receiving pensions over $200,000 has reached 784, which is 34% higher than the previous year.
Even more striking, 46 retirees now receive over $300,000 annually—four times more than just a year ago.
3. Highest Pensions Awarded in FY2025
Some retirees stand out for their exceptional pension figures:
| Retiree Name | Position | Annual Pension ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Patrick McEvoy | Former Captain | 404,730 |
| Michael Ajello | Assistant Chief of Department | 387,579 |
| John Sudnik | Chief of Department | 385,179 |
| Terence O’Connor | Firefighter | 368,052 |
| Frederick Saporito | Captain | 362,992 |
These amounts reflect decades of service, higher-ranking positions, and additional contributions to special pension programs.
4. Additional Pension Perks
NYC firefighter pensions offer more than just the monthly benefit:
- Constitutionally guaranteed payments backed by New York taxpayers.
- Exemption from New York State income tax, allowing retirees to keep more of their earnings.
- City-funded health care coverage at no cost, providing significant savings for retirees and their families.
- Access to the Variable Supplement Fund and annual “Christmas bonus” programs.
5. Key Statistics at a Glance
| Category | Fiscal Year 2025 Figures |
|---|---|
| Avg. pension — full-career retirees | $171,336 (↑13%) |
| Full-career retirees with > $200K pension | 108 out of 430 (~95%) |
| Avg. pension — all FDNY retirees | $98,921 (↑51% in 10 years) |
| Retirees > $200K pension overall | 784 (↑34%) |
| Retirees > $300K pension | 46 (4× previous year) |
| Highest individual pension | $404,730 |
| Tax status | Exempt from NY State tax |
| Health care | Free for retirees |
With average new pensions now exceeding $170,000, NYC firefighters are seeing record-breaking retirement benefits.
Full-career retirees are not only securing six-figure annual incomes but also enjoying tax exemptions and free healthcare for life.
As pension amounts climb year over year, they underscore both the value placed on decades of dangerous public service and the significant financial obligations for the city moving forward.
FAQs
Why have NYC firefighter pensions risen so much?
The increase is due to higher salaries, long service durations, contractual benefits, and additional pension enhancement programs.
Who gets the highest pensions?
Higher-ranking officers and long-serving firefighters, particularly those who contributed extra to optional pension programs, often receive the largest payouts.
Are firefighter pensions taxable?
No, NYC firefighter pensions are exempt from New York State income tax, allowing retirees to keep more of their retirement income.