Firefighter Salaries in Wisconsin — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026The median firefighter salary in Wisconsin is $47,710 per year, equivalent to $22.94/hr, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS programme. Wisconsin employs approximately 8,010 firefighters statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Wisconsin are below the national average by approximately $9,652. Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of up to 7.65%.
Wisconsin's manufacturing base and stable economy provide steady employment for firefighters.
Wisconsin Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Wisconsin after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of up to 7.65%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of up to 7.65%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Wisconsin Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Wisconsin median of $47,710.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Wisconsin
Firefighter Salary Trend in Wisconsin — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataFirefighter salaries in Wisconsin have grown an estimated 13.9% over the past five years, reflecting broader workforce and economic conditions. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Wisconsin's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Wisconsin
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee | $52,950 | $25.46 | +11.0% | 2,803 |
| Madison | $50,550 | $24.30 | +6.0% | 2,242 |
| Green Bay | $49,150 | $23.63 | +3.0% | 1,441 |
| Kenosha | $45,800 | $22.02 | -4.0% | 720 |
| Racine | $43,400 | $20.87 | -9.0% | 480 |
| Appleton | $41,500 | $19.95 | -13.0% | 320 |
Tip: Milwaukee offers the highest firefighter salaries in Wisconsin at $52,950/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Wisconsin vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Wisconsin sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of up to 7.65%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Wisconsin
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Wisconsin is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Wisconsin job market. Wisconsin's manufacturing base and stable economy provide steady employment for firefighters.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Wisconsin
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Wisconsin typically adds $39,100 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Milwaukee pays firefighters $52,950/yr — +11.0% above the Wisconsin average. Simply relocating within Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Minnesota pays firefighters $41,990/yr — -12.0% vs Wisconsin.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Wisconsin
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Wisconsin:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Wisconsin — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Wisconsin — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Milwaukee, WI→