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Public Safety · Idaho

How to Become a Firefighters in Idaho

Firefighters in Idaho earn a median salary of $47,320/year, which is 20% below the national average. Idaho has a state income tax of ~3.6%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $2,045/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$47K
Median salary in Idaho
-20%
vs. national average
3.6%
State income tax
2,240
Employed in Idaho

What a firefighters can afford in Idaho

Gross annual salary$47,320
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.6% state tax)$3,198/mo
Median 2BR rent (Idaho)-$1,153/mo
Rent as % of take-home36.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$47,320/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,045/mo

Becoming a firefighters in Idaho

1

Meet education requirements

Firefighters positions in Idaho typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Idaho. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in Idaho. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Idaho licensure or certification

Idaho may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Idaho Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Idaho

Idaho employs 2,240 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Boise City and Idaho Falls.

Firefighters salary by metro area in Idaho

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Boise City$76K$36.67/hr740
Idaho Falls$61K$29.29/hr280
Lewiston$59K$28.33/hr80
Coeur d'Alene$59K$28.28/hr200
Pocatello$44K$21.27/hr100
Twin Falls$37K$17.76/hr110

Firefighters salary range in Idaho

10th percentile (entry)
$30K
25th percentile
$35K
Median (50th)
$47K
75th percentile
$76K
90th percentile (senior)
$81K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a firefighters make in Idaho?

The median firefighters salary in Idaho is $47,320 per year ($22.75/hr). This is 20% below the national median of $59,280. Salaries range from $30,280 to $81,190.

What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Idaho?

Firefighters positions in Idaho typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Idaho may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Idaho licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a firefighters afford to live in Idaho?

At the median salary of $47,320, a firefighters in Idaho would take home approximately $3,198/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,153/month, that's 36.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for firefighters in Idaho?

The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Idaho are Boise City ($76,280), Idaho Falls ($60,930), Lewiston ($58,920). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Idaho have state income tax for firefighters?

Yes, Idaho has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.6%. On a $47,320 salary, this means roughly $1,682/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.