How to Become a Firefighters in South Carolina
Firefighters in South Carolina earn a median salary of $45,960/year, which is 23% below the national average. South Carolina has a state income tax of ~2.9%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $1,726/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in South Carolina
Becoming a firefighters in South Carolina
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in South Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across South Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in South Carolina. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain South Carolina licensure or certification
South Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the South Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in South Carolina
South Carolina employs 7,570 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Sumter and Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach.
Firefighters salary by metro area in South Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sumter | $53K | $25.71/hr | 90 |
| Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach | $51K | $24.72/hr | 710 |
| Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Port Royal | $51K | $24.38/hr | 540 |
| Charleston-North Charleston | $46K | $22.34/hr | 1,420 |
| Columbia | $46K | $22.1/hr | 930 |
| Greenville-Anderson-Greer | $45K | $21.68/hr | 1,280 |
| Spartanburg | $40K | $19.04/hr | 770 |
| Florence | $32K | $15.48/hr | 280 |
Firefighters salary range in South Carolina
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in South Carolina?▼
The median firefighters salary in South Carolina is $45,960 per year ($22.1/hr). This is 23% below the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $29,220 to $64,010.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in South Carolina?▼
Firefighters positions in South Carolina typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. South Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the South Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in South Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $45,960, a firefighters in South Carolina would take home approximately $3,138/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 45% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in South Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in South Carolina are Sumter ($53,470), Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach ($51,410), Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Port Royal ($50,710). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does South Carolina have state income tax for firefighters?▼
Yes, South Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.9%. On a $45,960 salary, this means roughly $1,314/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.