How to Become a Firefighters in Alabama
Firefighters in Alabama earn a median salary of $47,490/year, which is 20% below the national average. Alabama has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $1,754/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in Alabama
Becoming a firefighters in Alabama
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in Alabama typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Alabama. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in Alabama. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Alabama licensure or certification
Alabama may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Alabama Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Alabama
Alabama employs 6,930 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Tuscaloosa and Florence-Muscle Shoals.
Firefighters salary by metro area in Alabama
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuscaloosa | $67K | $32.16/hr | 420 |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals | $52K | $24.86/hr | 120 |
| Daphne-Fairhope-Foley | $50K | $24.06/hr | 240 |
| Birmingham | $50K | $23.99/hr | 2,420 |
| Montgomery | $49K | $23.69/hr | 510 |
| Huntsville | $47K | $22.83/hr | 500 |
| Mobile | $46K | $22.24/hr | 690 |
| Auburn-Opelika | $44K | $21.11/hr | 230 |
| Anniston-Oxford | $43K | $20.49/hr | 200 |
| Dothan | $40K | $19.27/hr | 240 |
| Decatur | $39K | $18.63/hr | 170 |
| Gadsden | $37K | $17.82/hr | 170 |
Firefighters salary range in Alabama
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in Alabama?▼
The median firefighters salary in Alabama is $47,490 per year ($22.83/hr). This is 20% below the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $30,880 to $73,360.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Alabama?▼
Firefighters positions in Alabama typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Alabama may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Alabama licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in Alabama?▼
At the median salary of $47,490, a firefighters in Alabama would take home approximately $3,166/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in Alabama?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Alabama are Tuscaloosa ($66,890), Florence-Muscle Shoals ($51,700), Daphne-Fairhope-Foley ($50,040). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Alabama have state income tax for firefighters?▼
Yes, Alabama has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $47,490 salary, this means roughly $2,210/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.