How to Become a Firefighters in Texas
Firefighters in Texas earn a median salary of $60,840/year, which is 2% above the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $2,832/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in Texas
Becoming a firefighters in Texas
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in Texas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in Texas. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 30,400 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Abilene and Lubbock.
Firefighters salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abilene | $79K | $38.13/hr | 210 |
| Lubbock | $76K | $36.75/hr | 460 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $65K | $31.46/hr | 9,320 |
| Tyler | $64K | $30.93/hr | 270 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $64K | $30.69/hr | 440 |
| Waco | $63K | $30.48/hr | 220 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $63K | $30.13/hr | 2,830 |
| Sherman-Denison | $61K | $29.51/hr | 140 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $60K | $28.76/hr | 6,610 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $60K | $28.62/hr | 2,640 |
| Laredo | $58K | $28.1/hr | 410 |
| Killeen-Temple | $58K | $28.05/hr | 640 |
| Wichita Falls | $56K | $26.77/hr | 190 |
| Texarkana | $51K | $24.5/hr | 190 |
| El Paso | $51K | $24.47/hr | 620 |
Firefighters salary range in Texas
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in Texas?▼
The median firefighters salary in Texas is $60,840 per year ($29.25/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $42,430 to $76,840.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Texas?▼
Firefighters positions in Texas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $60,840, a firefighters in Texas would take home approximately $4,244/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Texas are Abilene ($79,310), Lubbock ($76,450), Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ($65,440). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for firefighters?▼
No, Texas 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.