How to Become a Firefighters in Louisiana
Firefighters in Louisiana earn a median salary of $33,700/year, which is 43% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~2.9%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $933/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in Louisiana
Becoming a firefighters in Louisiana
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in Louisiana typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in Louisiana. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification
Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Louisiana
Louisiana employs 4,690 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Alexandria and Lake Charles.
Firefighters salary by metro area in Louisiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandria | $42K | $20.33/hr | 270 |
| Lake Charles | $38K | $18.3/hr | 200 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $38K | $18.3/hr | 670 |
| Lafayette | $36K | $17.34/hr | 170 |
| Baton Rouge | $35K | $17/hr | 960 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $34K | $16.29/hr | 850 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $34K | $16.28/hr | 400 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $33K | $15.96/hr | 120 |
| Monroe | $28K | $13.24/hr | 260 |
| Hammond | $25K | $12/hr | 150 |
Firefighters salary range in Louisiana
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in Louisiana?▼
The median firefighters salary in Louisiana is $33,700 per year ($16.2/hr). This is 43% below the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $23,320 to $52,080.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Louisiana?▼
Firefighters positions in Louisiana typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in Louisiana?▼
At the median salary of $33,700, a firefighters in Louisiana would take home approximately $2,345/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 60.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in Louisiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Louisiana are Alexandria ($42,290), Lake Charles ($38,070), Shreveport-Bossier City ($38,060). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Louisiana have state income tax for firefighters?▼
Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.9%. On a $33,700 salary, this means roughly $973/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.