How to Become a Firefighters in Michigan
Firefighters in Michigan earn a median salary of $55,570/year, which is 7% below the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $2,282/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in Michigan
Becoming a firefighters in Michigan
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in Michigan typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Michigan. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in Michigan. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Michigan licensure or certification
Michigan may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Michigan Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Michigan
Michigan employs 7,390 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Detroit-Warren-Dearborn and Midland.
Firefighters salary by metro area in Michigan
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn | $62K | $29.76/hr | 3,490 |
| Midland | $60K | $28.73/hr | 60 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood | $55K | $26.64/hr | 660 |
| Ann Arbor | $54K | $25.94/hr | 170 |
| Battle Creek | $53K | $25.35/hr | 140 |
| Traverse City | $51K | $24.28/hr | 220 |
| Lansing-East Lansing | $50K | $24.11/hr | 430 |
| Niles | $49K | $23.76/hr | 110 |
| Jackson | $48K | $23.16/hr | 120 |
| Saginaw | $46K | $22.26/hr | 80 |
| Bay City | $45K | $21.82/hr | 40 |
| Monroe | $45K | $21.76/hr | 100 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage | $45K | $21.53/hr | 80 |
| Muskegon-Norton Shores | $40K | $19.45/hr | 170 |
| Flint | $39K | $18.58/hr | 240 |
Firefighters salary range in Michigan
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in Michigan?▼
The median firefighters salary in Michigan is $55,570 per year ($26.72/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $37,440 to $78,590.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Michigan?▼
Firefighters positions in Michigan typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Michigan may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Michigan licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in Michigan?▼
At the median salary of $55,570, a firefighters in Michigan would take home approximately $3,694/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in Michigan?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Michigan are Detroit-Warren-Dearborn ($61,900), Midland ($59,750), Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood ($55,410). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Michigan have state income tax for firefighters?▼
Yes, Michigan has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $55,570 salary, this means roughly $2,362/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.