How to Become a Firefighters in Washington
Firefighters in Washington earn a median salary of $93,490/year, which is 57% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $4,768/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in Washington
Becoming a firefighters in Washington
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in Washington typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in Washington. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 8,000 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard.
Firefighters salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $102K | $49.14/hr | 4,150 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $100K | $48.09/hr | 420 |
| Longview-Kelso | $97K | $46.86/hr | 100 |
| Bellingham | $93K | $44.79/hr | 270 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $90K | $43.36/hr | 350 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $84K | $40.53/hr | 690 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $79K | $38.08/hr | 270 |
| Walla Walla | $78K | $37.69/hr | 30 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $78K | $37.3/hr | 260 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $77K | $36.98/hr | 190 |
| Yakima | $37K | $17.8/hr | 400 |
Firefighters salary range in Washington
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in Washington?▼
The median firefighters salary in Washington is $93,490 per year ($44.95/hr). This is 57% above the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $41,650 to $118,460.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Washington?▼
Firefighters positions in Washington typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $93,490, a firefighters in Washington would take home approximately $6,180/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($102,220), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($100,040), Longview-Kelso ($97,460). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for firefighters?▼
No, Washington 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.