How to Become a Firefighters in North Carolina
Firefighters in North Carolina earn a median salary of $37,250/year, which is 37% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $1,112/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a firefighters in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in North Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in North Carolina. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 18,200 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Greensboro-High Point and Raleigh-Cary.
Firefighters salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greensboro-High Point | $47K | $22.67/hr | 1,840 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $46K | $22.14/hr | 2,240 |
| Rocky Mount | $45K | $21.47/hr | 230 |
| Jacksonville | $42K | $20.04/hr | 350 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $38K | $18.2/hr | 1,210 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $38K | $18.04/hr | 4,520 |
| Wilmington | $37K | $17.98/hr | 640 |
| Asheville | $37K | $17.81/hr | 920 |
| Burlington | $37K | $17.68/hr | 200 |
| Fayetteville | $36K | $17.49/hr | 790 |
| Goldsboro | $36K | $17.14/hr | 90 |
| Winston-Salem | $35K | $17.04/hr | 1,050 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $35K | $16.73/hr | 740 |
| Greenville | $34K | $16.3/hr | 170 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $33K | $15.82/hr | 220 |
Firefighters salary range in North Carolina
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in North Carolina?▼
The median firefighters salary in North Carolina is $37,250 per year ($17.91/hr). This is 37% below the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $28,360 to $64,140.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in North Carolina?▼
Firefighters positions in North Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $37,250, a firefighters in North Carolina would take home approximately $2,524/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 55.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in North Carolina are Greensboro-High Point ($47,150), Raleigh-Cary ($46,050), Rocky Mount ($44,650). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for firefighters?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $37,250 salary, this means roughly $1,676/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.