How to Become a Firefighters in Wisconsin
Firefighters in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $47,710/year, which is 20% below the national average. Wisconsin has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $1,829/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a firefighters can afford in Wisconsin
Becoming a firefighters in Wisconsin
Meet education requirements
Firefighters positions in Wisconsin typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Wisconsin. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in Wisconsin. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Wisconsin licensure or certification
Wisconsin may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Wisconsin Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Wisconsin
Wisconsin employs 8,010 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Janesville-Beloit and Appleton.
Firefighters salary by metro area in Wisconsin
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Janesville-Beloit | $66K | $31.78/hr | 130 |
| Appleton | $61K | $29.16/hr | 300 |
| Madison | $60K | $28.84/hr | 950 |
| Racine-Mount Pleasant | $57K | $27.61/hr | 260 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah | $52K | $25.02/hr | 230 |
| Green Bay | $52K | $24.8/hr | 490 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha | $49K | $23.66/hr | 2,010 |
| Kenosha | $47K | $22.79/hr | 200 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska | $47K | $22.37/hr | 270 |
| Wausau | $43K | $20.82/hr | 260 |
| Eau Claire | $41K | $19.89/hr | 270 |
| Fond du Lac | $35K | $16.78/hr | 60 |
Firefighters salary range in Wisconsin
Firefighters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a firefighters make in Wisconsin?▼
The median firefighters salary in Wisconsin is $47,710 per year ($22.94/hr). This is 20% below the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $31,200 to $77,960.
What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Wisconsin?▼
Firefighters positions in Wisconsin typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Wisconsin may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Wisconsin licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a firefighters afford to live in Wisconsin?▼
At the median salary of $47,710, a firefighters in Wisconsin would take home approximately $3,241/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for firefighters in Wisconsin?▼
The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Wisconsin are Janesville-Beloit ($66,100), Appleton ($60,650), Madison ($59,990). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Wisconsin have state income tax for firefighters?▼
Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $47,710 salary, this means roughly $1,482/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.