Firefighter in Derry CDP, NH

The Salary Picture: Where Derry CDP Stands

As a local, I’ll be straight with you: Derry isn’t the highest-paying market for firefighters in New Hampshire, but it’s solidly in the middle of the pack, with a cost of living that’s a notch above the national average. The median salary for a Firefighter in Derry CDP is $59,107/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.42/hour. This is slightly above the national average of $57,120/year, which helps offset the area's higher living costs. The metro area has about 43 firefighter jobs, indicating a stable but not booming market. Over the past decade, the 10-year job growth has been 4%, reflecting steady, predictable demand rather than explosive expansion. For context, this places Derry in a competitive position against other New Hampshire cities like Manchester (median $62,000) and Concord ($60,500), where salaries are marginally higher but competition is fiercer.

To give you a clearer sense of the career ladder, here’s a breakdown of salary progression based on experience levels common in New Hampshire’s fire departments:

Experience Level	Years of Service	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$48,000–$52,000	Often starts at the bottom of the scale; benefits are key.
Mid-Career	3-7 years	$55,000–$62,000	Where the median $59,107 typically falls.
Senior Firefighter	8-15 years	$65,000–$72,000	Includes shift differentials and specialty pay.
Expert/Officer	15+ years	$75,000+	Lieutenant/Captain roles; often with overtime.

Compared to other NH cities, Derry’s salary is competitive for its size. For example, Nashua firefighters earn a median of $61,200, but the cost of living there is slightly higher. In smaller towns like Exeter or Dover, salaries might be lower (around $56,000–$58,000), but with a lower cost of living. The key takeaway? Derry offers a balanced package: a living wage that aligns with local expenses, without the intense competition of larger cities.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about what $59,107/year means in your pocket. In New Hampshire, there’s no state income tax, which is a huge advantage. However, federal taxes will take a significant bite. For a single filer with no dependents, take-home pay after federal taxes and FICA is roughly $46,000–$48,000 annually, or about $3,800–$4,000/month. Now, factor in the average 1-bedroom rent of $1,506/month in Derry. The cost of living index is 111.6 (US average = 100), meaning you’re paying about 11.6% more for goods and services than the national average.

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

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	% of Take-Home Pay	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$1,506	~38%	Lower-end units may be found in older parts of town.
Utilities	$200–$250	5–6%	Includes heating (oil/gas) and electricity.
Groceries	$400–$500	10–13%	Comparable to national averages.
Transportation	$300–$400	8–10%	Car insurance and gas; public transit is limited.
Health Insurance	$150–$200	4–5%	Often covered by the department after a probationary period.
Savings/Debt	$500–$700	13–18%	Essential for retirement and emergencies.
Miscellaneous	$300–$400	8–10%	Eating out, entertainment, etc.
Total	$3,356–$4,156	85–105%	Tight but manageable with careful budgeting.

As you can see, at the median salary, renting a 1-bedroom apartment leaves little room for error, especially if you’re commuting from a higher-rent neighborhood. Buying a home is challenging but not impossible. The median home price in Derry is around $350,000–$375,000. With a 20% down payment ($70,000–$75,000), your monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would exceed $2,000—likely pushing your housing costs over 50% of your take-home pay. Most firefighters in Derry start with renting (often in multi-bedroom units with roommates) and consider buying after 5–7 years, once they’ve moved up to a senior role and built savings.

Where the Jobs Are: Derry CDP's Major Employers

Derry’s firefighting job market is dominated by the Derry Fire Department, which operates out of three stations: Central Station (Station 1) on East Broadway, and two others on Hood Road and Bottle Lake Road. The department protects a population of 21,668 across 35 square miles, including the town of Derry and the smaller, densely populated Derry CDP. Hiring is competitive, with openings typically posted on the town’s official website. Most positions are filled through civil service exams administered by the New Hampshire Division of Fire Standards & Training (DFST). Here’s a look at the major employers and trends:

1. Derry Fire Department – The primary employer. They run a traditional shift schedule (24 hours on, 48 off) and are known for strong mutual aid agreements with neighboring towns like Londonderry and Windham. Hiring trends show a preference for candidates with EMT-B certification already in hand. They’ve added 2–3 new firefighters annually over the past five years, driven by retirements and population growth.

2. Londonderry Fire Department – Just over the border, often hires Derry residents. Their call volume is higher due to the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport coverage. Salaries are comparable, but the competition is stiffer.

3. Windham Fire Department – A growing community with newer apparatus. They’ve been actively hiring to support expansion, offering slightly higher starting pay (around $52,000).

4. Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office – While not a fire department, they employ Fire Marshals and Emergency Management staff. A good backup option for those interested in fire inspection roles.

5. NH Department of Safety – Division of Fire Standards & Training – Based in Concord but hires instructors and inspectors. Requires advanced certifications.

6. Seacoast Fire Training Center – Offers part-time instructional roles for certified firefighters. A great way to supplement income.

7. Private Industrial Parks – Companies like Amazon in Londonderry and BAE Systems in Nashua employ in-house fire brigades or contract with local departments for stand-by coverage. These roles often pay more but require specialized industrial firefighting training.

Hiring trends indicate a steady demand. The 10-year job growth of 4% aligns with New Hampshire’s aging firefighter population—about 30% of current firefighters are eligible for retirement within the next decade. Departments are proactively hiring to avoid a staffing crisis. Insider tip: Many departments use a “list eligibility” system. If you score well on the civil service exam, you can be on a hiring list for 2–3 years. Apply to multiple towns simultaneously to increase your chances.

Getting Licensed in NH

New Hampshire has clear, structured requirements to become a firefighter, managed by the Division of Fire Standards & Training (DFST). The process is straightforward but requires dedication. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

1. Basic Requirements: You must be 18+ years old, have a high school diploma/GED, and hold a valid driver’s license. A background check is mandatory—any felony or serious misdemeanor will disqualify you.

2. EMT-B Certification: This is non-negotiable. Most departments require it before hiring. You can complete an EMT-B course at institutions like Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) or Manchester Community College. The course takes 6–8 months and costs $1,200–$1,500. You’ll also need to pass the National Registry (NREMT) exam.

3. Firefighter I & II Certification: This is a 240-hour course covering basic firefighting skills. DFST offers this through academies like the New Hampshire Fire Academy in Concord. Tuition is approximately $2,500–$3,000, not including gear or travel. Many departments sponsor recruits for this training post-hire.

4. Civil Service Exam: For Derry and most NH towns, you must pass a written exam administered by the New Hampshire Civil Service Bureau. The exam covers math, reading comprehension, and situational judgment. Study guides are available online. The exam fee is $50–$75.

5. Physical Agility Test (PAT): The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is the standard. It’s a timed, pass/fail obstacle course simulating real fireground tasks. Training is crucial—local gyms like Planet Fitness in Derry offer CPAT prep programs. The test itself costs about $150.

6. Medical and Psychological Exams: After conditional hiring, you’ll undergo a rigorous medical exam (including drug screening) and a psychological evaluation. These are conducted by approved providers and are typically covered by the department.

Timeline to Get Started: If you start from scratch with no certifications, expect 12–18 months to become hireable. A realistic path: Complete EMT-B (6 months), then Firefighter I/II (3 months), and study for the civil service exam (1–2 months). Total cost: $4,000–$5,000. However, many departments hire “provisionally” and pay for your Firefighter I/II training once you’re on probation. Insider tip: Volunteer with a local call fire department (like those in Derry’s surrounding towns) to gain experience and network, which can give you an edge in the hiring process.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Derry offers a mix of suburban neighborhoods, each with different vibes and commute times to the fire stations. Commuting is car-dependent—public transit is minimal, so proximity to Route 102 or I-93 is key. Here are 4-5 top picks for firefighters, based on affordability, safety, and access:

1. East Derry – The heart of town, where Central Station (Station 1) is located. Walkable to restaurants and shops. Mostly older homes and apartment complexes. Rent estimate for a 1BR: $1,400–$1,600/month. Ideal for those who want a short commute (under 5 minutes). The downside: older buildings mean older heating systems, which can spike winter utility bills.

2. West Derry – Quieter, more residential, with newer subdivisions and condos. Close to Bottle Lake Road Station. Rent estimate for a 1BR: $1,300–$1,500/month. Lower crime rates and good schools make it family-friendly. Commute is 10–15 minutes to most stations. A solid choice for senior firefighters looking for stability.

3. South Derry – Bordering Windham, this area is growing fast. Rents are slightly lower due to newer construction, but you’ll face a 15–20 minute commute to Central Station. Rent estimate for a 1BR: $1,250–$1,450/month. Great for those who don’t mind a longer drive for more space. Proximity to Londonderry offers more dining options.

4. Auburn Road Area – A mix of apartments and single-family homes, with easy access to I-93 for mutual aid calls to Manchester. Rent estimate for a 1BR: $1,350–$1,550/month. Commute is 10 minutes to Central Station. The area is quieter but has fewer amenities—expect to drive for groceries.

5. Derry Village – A historic district with charming older homes, but rents can be higher. Rent estimate for a 1BR: $1,500–$1,700/month. Walking distance to downtown, but parking can be a challenge. Best for those who prioritize community and don’t need a lot of space.

Insider tip: Many firefighters live in neighboring towns like Londonderry or Windham to save on rent (where a 1BR can be $1,200–$1,400/month), but you must weigh the longer commute against the time demands of the job. During winter, road conditions can add 15–30 minutes to your drive, so factor that in.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Firefighting in Derry isn’t just a job—it’s a career with clear advancement paths. After the initial 5–7 years as a frontline firefighter, you can pursue specialties that come with pay premiums. Here’s how it typically unfolds:

• Specialty Premiums: EMT-B to EMT-I/Paramedic can add $3,000–$5,000/year to your base salary. Technical Rescue (rope, confined space) and Hazardous Materials certifications add similar amounts. Derry’s department values these skills for mutual aid calls to nearby industrial sites. Advanced certifications often come with free training through the department or state grants.

• Advancement Paths: The most common road is to Firefighter → Engineer → Lieutenant → Captain → Chief. Each step requires additional testing and seniority. Engineers (who drive and operate apparatus) earn $65,000–$70,000. Lieutenants and Captains can reach $80,000+, especially with overtime. Promotions are based on civil service exams and departmental reviews. There’s also a path to Fire Inspector or Fire Marshal, which involves code enforcement and arson investigation—roles that pay well and offer a 9-to-5 schedule.

• 10-Year Outlook: With 4% job growth and high retirement rates, opportunities will increase. The major trend is toward all-hazards response—firefighters are increasingly trained for medical calls, technical rescues, and even active shooter incidents. Derry’s proximity to Manchester means more regional training opportunities. Over the next decade, expect more emphasis on mental health support and wellness programs, as departments address the high stress of the job. Insider tip: Get involved in union activities or committee work early; it builds leadership skills and visibility for promotions.

The Verdict: Is Derry CDP Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable job market with steady hiring.	Rents are high relative to salary; buying a home early is tough.
No state income tax boosts take-home pay.	Cost of living index (111.6) means groceries and utilities are pricey.
Strong mutual aid network with neighboring towns for varied experience.	Commute can be challenging in winter weather; car dependency is high.
Balanced lifestyle—suburban feel with access to nature (Moose Mountain).	Limited nightlife and entertainment compared to larger cities.
Clear career progression with specialty pay incentives.	Competition for promotions can be stiff due to small department size.

Final Recommendation: Derry CDP is a solid choice for firefighters seeking stability and a balanced life, especially if you’re willing to start with renting and patience. It’s ideal for those who value community, steady work, and the benefits of New Hampshire’s tax structure. If you’re looking for rapid salary growth or a bustling urban scene, consider Manchester or Nashua. But if you want a place where you can build a long-term career without the chaos of a major metro, Derry delivers. My advice: Visit for a weekend, talk to firefighters at Station 1, and get a feel for the town. It’s not the flashiest market, but it’s a practical, rewarding one.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the hiring process for Derry Fire Department?
A: Moderately competitive. With only 43 jobs in the metro and 4% growth, you’ll face local candidates and out-of-towners. Scoring well on the civil service exam and having EMT-B certification significantly boosts your chances. Departments often hire 2–4 candidates per cycle.

Q: Can I live in Derry on a starting firefighter salary?
A: Yes, but it requires budgeting. With a starting salary around $48,000–$52,000, take-home is about $3,500/month. Renting a 1BR for $1,500 leaves $2,000 for other expenses—tight but doable with a roommate or renting a lower-cost studio. Many new hires live with family initially.

Q: Are there volunteer opportunities in Derry?
A: Yes, Derry has a volunteer call fire department that supports the paid staff. Volunteering is a great way to gain experience,