Firefighter in Davie, FL

The Salary Picture: Where Davie Stands

As a local who’s seen the fire department grow alongside Davie’s sprawl from a quiet farming town to a bustling suburban hub, I can tell you that the compensation here is competitive for the region, but it comes with the specific cost-of-living pressures of South Florida. For a Firefighter in Davie, the numbers tell a clear story.

The median salary is $59,142/year. This translates to an hourly rate of $28.43/hour. It’s important to contextualize this; it sits just above the national average of $57,120/year. However, in the Broward County fire service ecosystem, this is a solid mid-range figure, especially for a career with a structured advancement ladder. Davie's municipal jobs typically offer a full benefits package, including Florida Retirement System (FRS) pension, health insurance, and deferred compensation plans, which significantly boost the total value of that base salary.

The job market for Firefighters in the greater Davie metro area is specialized and competitive. There are approximately 215 jobs in this field within the metro, reflecting the integrated fire services across Broward County. The 10-year job growth is projected at 4%, which is slower than the national average but still indicates steady demand. This growth is driven by population increases in western Broward suburbs, aging infrastructure requiring more specialized rescue operations, and the constant need to replace retirees. It’s not a boom market, but it’s a stable one. The key is that many positions aren't just with the Town of Davie itself but with neighboring municipalities that share services or with the larger Broward County Fire Rescue.

Here’s a breakdown of how salary typically progresses with experience in this region:

Experience Level	Typical Years	Estimated Salary Range (Davie Area)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-3 years	$52,000 - $58,000	Structural & wildland firefighting, emergency medical response, vehicle extrication, basic inspections.
Mid-Career	4-8 years	$59,000 - $68,000	Driver/Engineer, rescue specialist, paramedic certification, leadership on smaller incidents.
Senior	9-15 years	$69,000 - $82,000	Lieutenant, Captain, station officer, training officer, complex incident command.
Expert/Management	15+ years	$85,000 - $105,000+	Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief, specialty team lead (HazMat, Technical Rescue), administrative roles.

When you compare this to other Florida cities, Davie offers a respectable package. It’s generally higher than smaller rural towns but may be slightly less than major metro hubs like Miami or Fort Lauderdale, where the cost of living is even more extreme. However, Davie provides a unique balance—close enough to the high-paying jobs in the larger cities for personal growth, but with a more manageable suburban lifestyle and a slightly better housing market than the coastal cities.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the budget. A Firefighter earning the median salary of $59,142/year needs to understand the South Florida financial landscape. After taxes (federal, FICA, state), a single filer with no dependents can expect approximately 22-25% of their gross pay to be deducted, leaving a net take-home of roughly $44,000 - $45,500 annually, or about $3,650 - $3,800 per month.

Now, factor in housing. The average 1BR rent in Davie is $1,621/month. This is a critical benchmark. For our firefighter earning the median, rent consumes approximately 43% of the net monthly income. This is above the generally recommended 30% threshold, indicating that housing is the primary budgetary pressure.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a firefighter earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Net Income (After Taxes)	$3,700	Conservative estimate for a single filer.
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,621	Could be lower or higher by neighborhood.
Utilities (Elec, Water, Trash)	$180	Higher in summer due to A/C.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Florida auto insurance is high; a reliable vehicle is a must.
Groceries & Household	$400
Health Insurance (if not fully covered)	$150	Varies greatly by plan.
Retirement Savings (IRA/457)	$300	Critical for supplementing the pension.
Miscellaneous (Food, Fun, Clothes)	$599	This is the discretionary buffer.
Total Expenses	$3,699	Leaves virtually no room for error.

Can they afford to buy a home? It’s challenging on a single income at the median. The median home price in Davie is currently over $450,000. With a 20% down payment ($90,000), a mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) could easily exceed $2,500/month, which is unsustainable on the net income. However, many firefighters in the area buy homes through dual-income households, utilize the Florida Housing Finance Corporation’s first-time homebuyer programs, or purchase in more affordable neighboring towns like Southwest Ranches or Cooper City. It requires careful long-term financial planning and often a spouse's income.

Where the Jobs Are: Davie's Major Employers

The Davie job market for Firefighters is a mix of municipal, county, and nearby city roles. You’re not just looking at the "Town of Davie" sign. The fire service here is interconnected across Broward County.

1. Broward County Fire Rescue (BCFR): This is the largest employer, covering unincorporated areas and providing contract services to many smaller towns. Davie itself is served by BCFR stations (like Station 31 and 34). They have a highly structured career path, strong specialty teams (HazMat, Technical Rescue), and frequent hiring cycles. This is often the primary target for new hires in the region.

2. Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue: While not in Davie, it’s a major neighbor. They have a large, busy system and often have openings. The commute from Davie (via I-595) is straightforward (~25-30 mins). Their pay scale is generally higher to match the higher cost of living in the city.

3. Sunrise Fire Rescue: Another major neighbor to the east. They serve a large, dense population with many commercial properties. They have a reputation for modern equipment and active community engagement.

4. Plantation Fire Department: Located just east of Davie, Plantation is a well-established city with a solid department. Their hiring can be competitive, but they offer a strong benefits package and a good work-life balance.

5. Town of Davie (Special Services): While the main fire services are contracted to Broward County, the Town of Davie has its own Fire Safety and Inspection division. These roles focus on fire prevention, code enforcement, and public education. They are fewer in number but offer an alternative career path within the municipal government.

6. Broward College Public Safety Institute: Located in Davie, this isn't an employer for on-call firefighters, but it's a critical hub for training and certification. They offer the necessary EMT and Paramedic programs and host fire academy classes. Many firefighters work as adjunct instructors here for supplemental income.

Hiring Trends: Post-hurricane (especially Ian) and post-pandemic, there's an increased focus on wildland fire training (due to the wildland-urban interface in western Davie) and advanced medical response. Departments are prioritizing paramedic-certified candidates. Hiring is cyclical, often tied to budget cycles (typically spring/summer for the upcoming fiscal year). Being flexible to apply to multiple departments (Broward County, Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale) is the insider tip for landing a job quickly.

Getting Licensed in FL

Florida has a clear but rigorous path to becoming a firefighter. It’s a two-step process: state certification and local hiring.

1. State Certification (Firefighter II): This is the baseline requirement.

• Requirements: You must complete a state-certified Firefighter I & II academy (minimum 398 hours) and pass the state written and practical exams. The certification is issued by the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards & Training (BFST), under the Florida Department of Financial Services.
• Cost: Academy tuition can range from $3,500 to $6,000. Additional costs include uniforms, gear (personal protective equipment), and testing fees, bringing the total to roughly $5,000 - $8,000.
• Timeline: A full-time academy is typically 6 months. Part-time programs can take 12-18 months.

2. EMT/Paramedic Certification: In South Florida, having your EMT is often the minimum to be competitive. Being a Paramedic is a significant advantage.

• EMT: A 6-month course. Costs ~$1,500 - $2,500.
• Paramedic: A 12-18 month intensive program. Costs ~$8,000 - $15,000. Broward College is a key provider.

3. The Hiring Process: After certification, you apply to departments. The process includes:

• Written Exam
• Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
• Oral Board Interview
• Background Check & Polygraph
• Medical and Psychological Exams
• This process can take 3-6 months from application to hire.

Insider Tip: Many local departments (like BCFR) offer lateral entry for certified firefighters from other states, but you will still need to obtain your Florida certification. Start this process early. The Broward College Public Safety Institute in Davie is your best resource for both the fire academy and EMT/Paramedic programs.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Living in Davie means balancing commute, lifestyle, and rent. Here’s a breakdown by vibe and practicality:

1. Davie Downtown / SW 64th St Corridor:

   • Vibe: Energetic, walkable, near the Town Hall and the popular "Davie Field" area with restaurants and shops. It's the heart of the town.
   • Commute: Excellent. You’re central to all major roads (I-595, US-441, Stirling Rd). Easy access to stations in Davie, Plantation, or Sunrise.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,650 - $1,850/month. Slightly above the town average for the location.
   • Best For: Those who want a social scene and a short commute.

2. Western Davie / Pine Island Ridge:

   • Vibe: Quieter, more suburban, with single-family homes and new apartment complexes. Close to the John H. Secord/Broward County South Regional Library and nature preserves.
   • Commute: Good, but you’ll deal with more traffic on I-595 or Stirling Rd during peak hours. 15-20 mins to downtown.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,500 - $1,700/month. Offers more value.
   • Best For: Those seeking a quieter home life, possibly with plans to buy a home in the future.

3. Cooper City (Adjacent):

   • Vibe: Family-oriented, highly rated schools, very safe. It’s a separate municipality but shares a border and a similar suburban feel.
   • Commute: Similar to western Davie. Very car-dependent.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,550 - $1,750/month. Similar pricing, slightly higher for the "prestige" of the city name.
   • Best For: Firefighters with families or those who prioritize top-rated public schools.

4. Southwest Ranches (Adjacent):

   • Vibe: Rural, equestrian, with large lots and a slower pace. Considered the "country" of western Broward.
   • Commute: Longer. 25-35 minutes to Davie/Plantation stations. Requires a car and planning.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,400 - $1,600/month. More affordable for the space, but rental stock is lower.
   • Best For: Those who want land, privacy, and don't mind a commute. Great for firefighters with horses or outdoor hobbies.

Rent Note: These are estimates for a standard 1BR apartment. Rent varies by building age, amenities, and exact location. Always check current listings on platforms like Zillow or Apartments.com.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A firefighter’s career in Davie/Broward is a marathon, not a sprint. The path to advancement is clear but requires dedication.

• Specialty Premiums: Beyond base pay, you can earn additional monthly premiums for special qualifications. These can add $200 - $600+ per month to your salary. Key specialties include:

  • Paramedic: The most significant and widely available premium.
  • Technical Rescue: Confined space, high-angle rope, trench rescue.
  • HazMat Technician: Handling chemical, biological, and radiological incidents.
  • Fire Inspector/Investigator: Involves more administrative and investigative work.

• Advancement Paths:

  • Operator/Driver/Engineer: The first promotion, requiring additional certifications (pump operator, tilting cab).
  • Officer (Lieutenant, Captain): Requires a bachelor’s degree (often preferred), extensive experience, and strong leadership skills. The promotional exams are competitive.
  • Battalion Chief: A management role overseeing multiple stations. Requires a master’s degree, extensive command experience, and a deep understanding of budget and policy.

• 10-Year Outlook: With 4% job growth, opportunities will be steady. The trend is toward increased specialization. Firefighters who are cross-trained in both fire suppression and advanced emergency medicine (Paramedic) will have the most mobility. The move toward "all-hazards" response—meaning fires, medical, technical rescue, and public health emergencies—means continuous education is non-negotiable. Building a strong reputation within the community and your department is crucial for moving up. Retiring with a full Florida FRS pension is a very real and valuable outcome after 25-30 years.

The Verdict: Is Davie Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market with a well-structured career ladder.	High Cost of Living, especially housing, which strains the median salary.
Competitive Salary & Benefits (FRS pension, health insurance).	Competitive Hiring – you need certifications (especially Paramedic) to stand out.
Proximity to Major Cities for more job options and higher pay potential.	Traffic & Commute can be significant, especially during rush hour on I-595.
Diverse Community & Lifestyle – suburban comfort with access to nature (Seminole Okalee,-tree-lined streets).	Hurricane & Flood Risk – requires preparedness and can impact work/life balance.
Excellent Training Resources (Broward College).	Slower 4% Job Growth compared to national averages.

Final Recommendation:
Davie is an excellent choice for a mid-career firefighter or a new graduate with paramedic certification who is financially disciplined. It’s not the easiest place to start a family on a single firefighter’s salary immediately, but it’s a fantastic long-term career home. If you can secure a job with Broward County or a neighboring city, live within your means (perhaps with a roommate initially or in a more affordable area), and commit to ongoing training, Davie offers a stable, rewarding career in the heart of South Florida. It’s a practical choice for those who value professional structure and a balanced suburban life over the high-energy (and higher-cost) coastal cities.

FAQs

1. Can I get hired without being a paramedic?
Yes, but it’s increasingly difficult. For Broward County Fire Rescue and most major city departments (Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise), having your EMT is the minimum. Being a Paramedic significantly increases your chances of being hired and your starting pay. It’s the single most valuable certification you can get.

2. How does the Florida Retirement System (FRS) work for firefighters?
It’s a defined-benefit pension. After 25-30 years of service (depending on your hire date), you receive a monthly pension based on your average salary and years worked. It’s a powerful retirement tool, but it’s crucial to also contribute to a 457(b) deferred compensation plan for extra savings. You cannot rely on Social Security alone.

3. What’s the weather like, and how does it affect the job?
Hot, humid, and rainy, with a hurricane season (June-November). The job is physically demanding year-round due to the heat. You’ll work in full PPE in 90°F+ weather. Hurricane duty is intense—long shifts, potential for major incidents, and community service. You must be prepared for it.

4. Are there volunteer firefighter opportunities in Davie?
The Davie area is almost entirely served by paid, professional departments. Volunteer opportunities are extremely rare in Broward County. The closest you might find is with