How to Become a Firefighters in California
Firefighters in California earn a median salary of $83,400/year, which is 40% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $3,852/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in California
Becoming a firefighters in California
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in California. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 27,580 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Firefighters salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $165K | $79.3/hr | 1,180 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $121K | $58.3/hr | 3,410 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $108K | $52.08/hr | 2,140 |
| Vallejo | $104K | $50.22/hr | 330 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $99K | $47.7/hr | 7,200 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $88K | $42.52/hr | 410 |
| Modesto | $84K | $40.48/hr | 360 |
| Salinas | $79K | $38.13/hr | 590 |
| Napa | $79K | $37.88/hr | 260 |
| Redding | $77K | $37.08/hr | 320 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $77K | $37.07/hr | 310 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $75K | $36.17/hr | 2,720 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $75K | $35.99/hr | 300 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $74K | $35.64/hr | 360 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $74K | $35.62/hr | 610 |
Firefighters salary range in California
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in California?▼
The median firefighters salary in California is $83,400 per year ($40.1/hr). This is 40% above the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $51,580 to $143,830.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in California?▼
Firefighters positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $83,400, a firefighters in California would take home approximately $5,264/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($164,940), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($121,270), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($108,320). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for firefighters?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $83,400 salary, this means roughly $3,894/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.