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Public Safety · Mississippi

How to Become a Firefighters in Mississippi

Firefighters in Mississippi earn a median salary of $35,880/year, which is 39% below the national average. Mississippi has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $1,025/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$36K
Median salary in Mississippi
-39%
vs. national average
4.7%
State income tax
2,920
Employed in Mississippi

What a firefighters can afford in Mississippi

Gross annual salary$35,880
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.7% state tax)$2,432/mo
Median 2BR rent (Mississippi)-$1,407/mo
Rent as % of take-home57.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$35,880/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,025/mo

Becoming a firefighters in Mississippi

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Mississippi licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Mississippi

Mississippi employs 2,920 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Gulfport-Biloxi and Jackson.

Firefighters salary by metro area in Mississippi

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Gulfport-Biloxi$42K$20.08/hr730
Jackson$35K$16.81/hr530
Hattiesburg$31K$14.82/hr130

Firefighters salary range in Mississippi

10th percentile (entry)
$27K
25th percentile
$29K
Median (50th)
$36K
75th percentile
$44K
90th percentile (senior)
$51K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a firefighters make in Mississippi?

The median firefighters salary in Mississippi is $35,880 per year ($17.25/hr). This is 39% below the national median of $59,280. Salaries range from $26,850 to $51,310.

What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Mississippi?

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

Can a firefighters afford to live in Mississippi?

At the median salary of $35,880, a firefighters in Mississippi would take home approximately $2,432/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,407/month, that's 57.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for firefighters in Mississippi?

The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Mississippi are Gulfport-Biloxi ($41,760), Jackson ($34,970), Hattiesburg ($30,830). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Mississippi have state income tax for firefighters?

Yes, Mississippi has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $35,880 salary, this means roughly $1,686/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.