Firefighter Salaries in Texas — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026The median firefighter salary in Texas is $60,840 per year, equivalent to $29.25/hr, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS programme. Texas employs approximately 30,400 firefighters statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Texas are above the national average by approximately $3,478. Texas has no state income tax.
Texas's growing population and business-friendly environment create expanding opportunities for firefighters.
Texas Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Texas after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Texas has no state income tax.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Texas has no state income tax. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Texas Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Texas median of $60,840.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Texas
Firefighter Salary Trend in Texas — 2021 to 2026
5-Year Datafirefighters pay in Texas has risen approximately 13.9% since 2021, mirroring national trends across the firefighter workforce. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Texas's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Texas
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | $67,550 | $32.48 | +11.0% | 10,640 |
| Dallas | $64,500 | $31.01 | +6.0% | 8,512 |
| Austin | $62,650 | $30.12 | +3.0% | 5,472 |
| San Antonio | $58,400 | $28.08 | -4.0% | 2,736 |
| Fort Worth | $55,350 | $26.61 | -9.0% | 1,824 |
| El Paso | $52,950 | $25.46 | -13.0% | 1,216 |
Tip: Houston offers the highest firefighter salaries in Texas at $67,550/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Texas vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Texas compares favourably for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Texas has no state income tax.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Texas
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Texas is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Texas job market. Texas's growing population and business-friendly environment create expanding opportunities for firefighters.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Texas
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Texas typically adds $49,900 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Houston pays firefighters $67,550/yr — +11.0% above the Texas average. Simply relocating within Texas can meaningfully increase your income without changing careers.
3. Specialise in high-demand areas. Firefighters who specialise in fire protection and emergency services typically command premium rates in Texas. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. New Mexico pays firefighters $42,920/yr — -29.5% vs Texas.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Texas
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Texas:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Texas — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Texas — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Houston, TX→