Firefighter in Evanston, WY

The Salary Picture: Where Evanston Stands

Living and working as a firefighter in Evanston, Wyoming, means operating in a unique economic landscape. The city isn't a major metropolitan hub, but its proximity to the Wyoming-Utah border and its status as the county seat for Uinta County create a specific job market. The median salary for firefighters here is $56,605/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.21/hour. This is slightly below the national average for firefighters, which sits at $57,120/year. For context, the cost of living index in Evanston is 97.0, meaning it’s about 3% cheaper than the U.S. average, which helps the local salary go further.

The job market itself is tight. There are only 23 firefighting jobs in the metro area, indicating a very small, close-knit department structure. The 10-year job growth is projected at a modest 4%, which suggests stability but not explosive opportunity. This isn't a place for rapid-fire job hopping; it's a community where you build a long-term career.

Here’s a breakdown of how that median salary typically scales with experience in a municipal setting like Evanston:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level (Probationary)	$48,000 - $52,000
Mid-Level (3-6 years)	$54,000 - $60,000
Senior (7-12 years)	$61,000 - $68,000
Expert/Leadership (12+ years)	$69,000 - $78,000+

When compared to other Wyoming cities, Evanston's firefighter salaries are competitive for its size. Cheyenne and Casper, as larger cities, often have higher pay scales due to a larger tax base and higher call volume, but they also come with a higher cost of living. Laramie, home to the University of Wyoming, might offer similar or slightly higher pay but has a different dynamic. Evanston's true advantage is its affordability, which can make a $56,605 salary feel more substantial than it would in a pricier locale.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

To understand what a firefighter's salary truly means in Evanston, we need to look at a monthly budget. Using the median salary of $56,605/year, we can estimate a take-home pay after federal taxes, state taxes (Wyoming has no state income tax), and FICA (Social Security and Medicare). A rough estimate for a single filer with no dependents would be approximately $3,800 - $4,000 per month after deductions.

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

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	~$3,900	After taxes & deductions
Rent (1BR Average)	$921	Citywide average
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	$150 - $200	Can vary seasonally
Internet/Phone	$100 - $150
Groceries	$300 - $400
Vehicle Payment/Insurance	$300 - $500	Essential in Evanston
Fuel	$150 - $250	For commuting & errands
Health Insurance (if not fully covered)	$100 - $250	Varies by department
Retirement Savings (457b/401a)	$200 - $400	Highly recommended
Miscellaneous (Gym, Leisure)	$200 - $300
Total Monthly Expenses	~$2,450 - $3,300	Leaves a buffer of $600 - $1,450

This budget shows that a firefighter earning the median salary can comfortably afford the average 1BR rent of $921/month and still have a healthy financial buffer. The key is household size and lifestyle; a dual-income household would be even more stable.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Evanston is roughly $250,000 - $280,000. With a down payment of 10% ($25,000 - $28,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates would result in a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of around $1,500 - $1,800. This is higher than the average rent, but still well within reach for a firefighter earning the median salary, especially if they have a partner or are disciplined with savings. Homeownership is a very realistic goal here.

Where the Jobs Are: Evanston's Major Employers

The firefighting landscape in Evanston is dominated by the municipal government. With only 23 jobs in the metro area, opportunities are limited but focused. Here are the primary employers:

1. Evanston Fire Department (EFD): The main employer. EFD operates out of two stations: Station 1 (downtown, 1019 Center St) and Station 2 (south side, 320 Bear River Dr). They provide all-hazards response for the city of Evanston and are part of the mutual aid system for Uinta County. Hiring is infrequent and highly competitive—often only one or two openings every few years. They run a robust volunteer program, which is a common entry point for aspiring career firefighters.

2. Uinta County Fire Protection District #1: This covers areas outside the city limits but within the county. They have a combination of career and volunteer firefighters. They may offer opportunities for part-time or seasonal work, especially during wildfire season.

3. Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP): While not a traditional municipal fire department, WHP has a Fire Support Unit. They sometimes hire for specialized roles involving emergency vehicle operation and hazardous materials response. Requires state-level certification.

4. Union Pacific Railroad: Evanston is a major rail hub. Union Pacific has its own fire and emergency response team for its facilities and trains. These are specialized, industrial firefighting roles that often require additional training in rail-specific hazards.

5. Intermountain Healthcare (Evanston Regional Hospital): The hospital's security and safety teams often work closely with EFD on medical emergencies. While not firefighting roles, they are adjacent emergency services jobs that can be a stepping stone or a lateral move for those with EMT certifications.

6. Uinta County School District #1: School districts employ safety and maintenance staff who sometimes have fire-related duties (e.g., fire extinguisher inspections, emergency planning). This is a potential entry point into the public safety field.

Hiring Trends: Hiring is slow and cyclical. The 4% job growth reflects this. Most openings occur due to retirements. The best approach is to get your name on a volunteer roster, build relationships, and be ready to apply when a rare posting goes up. Winter is often a slower season for hiring, while spring/summer may see more activity as departments plan for wildfire season.

Getting Licensed in WY

To be a firefighter in Wyoming, you need to be certified through the Wyoming Professional Firefighter Certification (WPFC) program, administered by the Wyoming Fire Academy (WFA) and overseen by the Wyoming State Fire Marshal’s Office. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Prerequisites: You must be at least 18 years old, possess a valid driver’s license, and have a high school diploma or GED. Most departments, including EFD, also require an EMT-Basic (EMT-B) certification. You’ll want to get this first, as it’s a prerequisite for many fire academy programs.

2. Firefighter I & II Certification: This is the core training. The Wyoming Fire Academy in Douglas, WY, offers the primary training. The program is typically a 12-week, live-in academy. You will need to arrange housing and meals for that period, or commute if you live nearby.

   • Cost: The academy itself is free for Wyoming residents, but you are responsible for your own gear (turnout gear can be costly, but some departments provide it upon hiring). The biggest cost is living expenses during the academy. For out-of-state applicants, tuition is approximately $2,500.
   • Timeline: The academy runs several times a year. The application process can take 2-3 months, followed by the 12-week training. Overall, from application to certification, expect 5-6 months.

3. EMT-B Certification: You must complete an EMT-B course from an accredited institution (e.g., Western Wyoming Community College, which has a campus in Rock Springs, a 1.5-hour drive from Evanston). This is a 6-month to 1-year process, including clinicals. Cost: $1,000 - $2,500.

4. Driver's License: You must have a valid Wyoming driver's license. If you're moving from out of state, you'll need to transfer it within 120 days of establishing residency.

5. State Fire Marshal Application: After completing the academy, you apply to the Wyoming State Fire Marshal for your certification. There is a small application fee.

Insider Tip: The Evanston Fire Department often sponsors its own recruits for the EMT-B and Fire Academy. This is the most financially viable path. If you are hired as a volunteer, you may be eligible for tuition assistance. Do not self-fund the entire process if you can possibly avoid it. The 10-year job growth of 4% means competition is fierce, so having the EFD as a sponsor is a massive advantage.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Evanston is a compact city, so commute times are minimal, typically under 10 minutes from any neighborhood to the fire stations. The choice comes down to lifestyle and housing type.

1. Downtown / Historic District: This is where Station 1 is located. Living here means you could be walking distance to work. It’s a quiet, established area with older, charming homes (some with character, some needing work). Rent for a 1BR apartment or small house is around $800 - $1,000/month. Perfect for a single firefighter who wants a short commute and enjoys a small-town feel.

2. South Evanston / Bear River Area: This is a more modern, residential area with newer subdivisions. It’s close to Station 2, shopping centers, and schools. Housing is primarily single-family homes, ideal for those looking to buy. Rent for a 1BR is similar to downtown ($850 - $1,100/month), but you get more space. The commute to Station 1 is still only 5-7 minutes.

3. East Side / North Evanston: This area is quieter, with a mix of older and newer homes. It’s slightly farther from the core but still an easy 10-minute drive to either station. It’s a good area for those seeking more privacy and larger lots. Rent is generally the most affordable here, often $750 - $950/month for a 1BR.

4. Northwest Edge / Near the Railroad: This area has some industrial zoning and is closer to the Union Pacific yards. It can be noisier and less residential, but housing is very affordable. Rent can drop to $700 - $900/month. This is a practical choice for someone on a tight budget who doesn’t mind the environment.

Insider Tip: If you have a family or are planning to start one, the South Evanston area near the schools is ideal. For a single person looking to save money and build a down payment, the East Side offers the best value. Avoid renting in a basement suite or older building without modern heating, as Evanston winters can be harsh.

The Long Game: Career Growth

With a 10-year job growth of only 4%, career advancement in Evanston isn’t about jumping to new departments; it’s about moving up within the existing structure. The Evanston Fire Department has a clear rank structure: Firefighter > Engineer > Captain > Assistant Chief > Chief.

• Specialty Premiums: EFD may offer small stipends or specialty pay for additional certifications. Pursuing your EMT-Intermediate (EMT-I) or Paramedic license can make you invaluable for medical calls, which are the majority of responses in a small town. Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Technician certification is another high-value skill, especially given the rail and industrial presence.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is to gain experience as a firefighter, then promote to Engineer (driving the apparatus), then Captain (shifting to a command role). Leadership roles like Training Officer or Fire Marshal are highly coveted and require extensive seniority and education.
• 10-Year Outlook: The outlook is stable but static. You can expect a long tenure with the same department, building deep community ties and becoming a local expert. However, if you seek variety—moving from a city department to a wildland fire crew, or specializing in technical rescue—you may need to look to regional opportunities (e.g., with the U.S. Forest Service or in a larger Wyoming city). For those who value stability and community impact, Evanston is a perfect long-term fit.

The Verdict: Is Evanston Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your $56,605 salary goes much further.	Extremely Limited Job Market: Only 23 jobs in the metro area.
Realistic Homeownership: Buying a home is achievable on a firefighter's salary.	Slow Hiring & Growth: 4% 10-year growth means few openings.
Strong Community Ties: Small department means you become part of the fabric of the town.	Remote Location: 1.5 hours to Salt Lake City for major amenities, 2 hours to Yellowstone.
Diverse Hazards: Rail, industrial, wildland, and traditional structural fire.	Harsh Winters: Long, cold winters with significant snow.
No State Income Tax: Keeps your take-home pay higher.	Limited Recreational Variety: Outdoor activities are great, but nightlife and cultural options are sparse.

Final Recommendation: Evanston is an excellent choice for a firefighter who values stability, affordability, and community over rapid career advancement or a bustling urban environment. It is ideal for someone starting a family, looking to buy a home early in their career, or seeking a deep sense of belonging in a tight-knit department. It is not recommended for someone who wants to experience firefighting in a large, fast-paced city, who relies on urban amenities, or who needs frequent job changes. If you can get your foot in the door—ideally via the volunteer program—Evanston offers a rewarding, long-term career path with a high quality of life.

FAQs

Q: How do I get a volunteer position with the Evanston Fire Department?
A: Contact the EFD directly at (307) 789-6550 or visit their station at 1019 Center St. They have a formal volunteer program that includes training. This is the #1 way to get hired as a career firefighter there.

Q: Is the cost of living really that low?
A: Yes. The Cost of Living Index of 97.0 is accurate, but it hides the true value. Groceries, utilities, and especially housing are significantly cheaper than in national averages. The $921/month average rent for a 1BR is a real figure, and you can find decent places for less.

Q: What’s the call volume like?
A: It's manageable. Evanston EFD responds to a mix of medical assists (the majority), motor vehicle accidents, structure fires, and wildland calls. The small number of 23 jobs means firefighters stay busy but aren't typically overwhelmed like in major cities. It allows for thorough training and community interaction.

Q: Can I work as a firefighter without being a certified EMT?
A: In Wyoming, it's highly unlikely. Most departments, including Evanston, require EMT-B as a minimum. The medical call percentage is too high to operate otherwise. Factor EMT-B certification into your timeline and cost before applying.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for a new firefighter in Evanston?
A: The winter. The cold, snow, and ice can make even simple calls more dangerous and physically demanding. You'll need proper gear and a reliable 4WD vehicle. The second challenge is the wait—getting hired can take years of volunteering and applying. Patience is essential.