How to Become a Firefighters in Tennessee
Firefighters in Tennessee earn a median salary of $47,300/year, which is 21% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $1,925/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a firefighters in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in Tennessee typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in Tennessee. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 6,510 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Memphis and Clarksville.
Firefighters salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $64K | $30.6/hr | 1,500 |
| Clarksville | $48K | $23.21/hr | 210 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $48K | $23.06/hr | 1,730 |
| Knoxville | $48K | $22.84/hr | 980 |
| Chattanooga | $46K | $21.9/hr | 590 |
| Johnson City | $41K | $19.78/hr | 100 |
| Jackson | $37K | $18.01/hr | 180 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $37K | $17.57/hr | 220 |
| Morristown | $36K | $17.53/hr | 140 |
Firefighters salary range in Tennessee
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in Tennessee?▼
The median firefighters salary in Tennessee is $47,300 per year ($22.74/hr). This is 21% below the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $32,480 to $71,300.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Tennessee?▼
Firefighters positions in Tennessee typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $47,300, a firefighters in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,337/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 42.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Tennessee are Memphis ($63,650), Clarksville ($48,270), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($47,960). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for firefighters?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means firefighters keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.