How to Become a Firefighters in New York
Firefighters in New York earn a median salary of $88,380/year, which is 48% above the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $4,113/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in New York
Becoming a firefighters in New York
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in New York typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New York. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in New York. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain New York licensure or certification
New York may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the New York Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in New York
New York employs 14,730 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in New York-Newark-Jersey City and Rochester.
Firefighters salary by metro area in New York
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City | $105K | $50.6/hr | 15,770 |
| Rochester | $88K | $42.49/hr | 800 |
| Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh | $77K | $36.96/hr | 230 |
| Syracuse | $73K | $35.29/hr | 390 |
| Utica-Rome | $73K | $35.18/hr | 140 |
| Binghamton | $73K | $35.17/hr | 170 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy | $73K | $35.16/hr | 580 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga | $73K | $35/hr | 850 |
| Watertown-Fort Drum | $72K | $34.42/hr | 120 |
| Elmira | $68K | $32.54/hr | 60 |
Firefighters salary range in New York
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in New York?▼
The median firefighters salary in New York is $88,380 per year ($42.49/hr). This is 48% above the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $56,220 to $105,270.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in New York?▼
Firefighters positions in New York typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. New York may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New York licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in New York?▼
At the median salary of $88,380, a firefighters in New York would take home approximately $5,525/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in New York?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in New York are New York-Newark-Jersey City ($105,250), Rochester ($88,380), Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh ($76,880). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does New York have state income tax for firefighters?▼
Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $88,380 salary, this means roughly $4,256/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.