Firefighter in Hollywood, FL

The Salary Picture: Where Hollywood Stands

As a firefighter in Hollywood, Florida, you're looking at a median salary of $59,142 per year, or an hourly rate of $28.43. This places you slightly above the national average for firefighters, which sits at $57,120 per year. The Hollywood metro area, part of the broader Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach metropolitan statistical area, has an estimated 307 jobs for firefighters, with a projected 10-year job growth of 4%. This growth is modest but steady, driven by population increases and the constant need for public safety services in a dense, coastal county.

To understand where you stand, let's break it down by experience level. These figures are based on aggregated local data from the Broward County Fire Department and collective bargaining agreements for municipal firefighters in the region.

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary Range	Notes
Entry-Level (Probationary)	$48,000 - $54,000	Starts after academy and probation. Includes base pay only.
Mid-Level (5-8 years)	$58,000 - $68,000	Aligns with the median. Includes shift differentials and certifications.
Senior (10+ years)	$68,000 - $82,000	Often includes officer pay (Lieutenant, Captain).
Expert/Command (20+ years)	$85,000 - $105,000+	Battalion Chief and above. Top tier includes longevity pay.

When compared to other Florida cities, Hollywood's salary is competitive but not the highest. Firefighters in Tampa or Orlando often see slightly higher base pay due to larger department budgets and a higher cost of living. In South Florida, Miami-Dade County firefighters might earn a bit more, but the cost of living in Miami itself is significantly higher. Hollywood offers a "sweet spot" in terms of pay-to-cost ratio, especially if you're willing to live just outside the premium coastal zones.

Insider Tip: The salary numbers above are base figures. In Hollywood and surrounding Broward County, overtime is a major factor. A significant portion of firefighters here boost their annual income by 15-25% through overtime, especially during hurricane season and special events like the Miami Grand Prix or Art Basel. The $59,142 median is a solid starting point, but your take-home can be much higher with strategic OT.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your budget. Hollywood has a cost of living index of 111.8, meaning it's 11.8% more expensive than the U.S. average. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,621 per month.

For a firefighter earning the median salary of $59,142, here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown after taxes and essential expenses.

Category	Monthly Estimate (Based on $59,142/yr)	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$4,928	Before taxes and deductions.
Federal & State Taxes	~$1,000 - $1,200	Varies by withholdings and filing status. FL has no state income tax.
Health Insurance & Retirement	~$300 - $500	Typically 10-15% of pay for a family plan. FL pension is 3% x 25 years of service.
Net Take-Home Pay	~$3,300 - $3,600	After taxes and mandatory deductions.
Average Rent (1BR)	$1,621	36-49% of net pay. A significant portion of your budget.
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	$180 - $250	Higher due to AC usage year-round.
Car Payment/Insurance	$300 - $500	Essential in South Florida; public transit is limited.
Groceries & Essentials	$400 - $600	Cost of living is above average.
Remaining Discretionary	~$400 - $700	For savings, entertainment, emergencies.

Can they afford to buy a home? With this budget, buying a home in Hollywood itself is challenging on a single median salary. The median home price in Hollywood is around $400,000. A 20% down payment ($80,000) is a steep hurdle. However, it's not impossible with dual income, a larger down payment from savings, or looking at more affordable neighboring areas like Miramar or Pembroke Pines, where prices can be slightly lower. Many firefighters here pair up or have spouses with second incomes to make homeownership a reality.

Insider Tip: Many firefighters in this region utilize FHA loans or VA loans (if applicable) to buy homes with a lower down payment. Also, consider that property taxes and homeowners insurance are major expenses in Florida—often adding $500-$800+ per month to a mortgage payment. Always get insurance quotes before making an offer.

Where the Jobs Are: Hollywood's Major Employers

The firefighting job market in Hollywood is concentrated in a few key public sector employers. The hiring process is often competitive and cyclical, with academies running a few times a year. Here are the primary employers:

1. Hollywood Fire Rescue (City of Hollywood): The largest local employer for firefighters. They operate multiple stations throughout the city. Hiring is typically through the Broward County Fire Academy (see below). They are known for a strong union (IAFF Local 3087) and good benefits. Hiring Trend: Actively hiring to fill retirements and expand coverage in denser neighborhoods like Downtown and beach areas.

2. Pembroke Pines Fire Rescue: A large, modern department serving a rapidly growing suburb just west of Hollywood. They often have their own hiring processes and are known for investing in new technology and apparatus. Hiring Trend: Consistent hiring due to population growth. They have a strong focus on specialized rescue and hazmat.

3. Broward County Fire Rescue: Covers unincorporated areas of the county, including parts of Hollywood and surrounding regions. They are a massive department with diverse calls, from airport incidents (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International) to wildfire management. Hiring Trend: Frequent openings. They run their own academy, which is a primary pipeline for many departments in the county.

4. Davie Fire Rescue: Serves the Town of Davie, known for its rural and equestrian areas alongside suburban development. Offers a mix of structural, wildland, and vehicle rescue calls. Hiring Trend: Moderate hiring, often looking for candidates with EMT or paramedic certifications.

5. Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue: While not in Hollywood, it's a major employer in the immediate metro area. Serves a large, dense coastal city with high-rise buildings and busy tourist areas. Pay is competitive, and the department is very large. Hiring Trend: Frequent openings, but the hiring process is rigorous.

6. Medical Transport Services (Private Companies): Companies like Ambulance Services of Broward County or AMR often hire EMTs and Paramedics. While not traditional firefighting, it's a common entry point for experience. Hiring Trend: Constant need, especially for paramedics.

7. Broward County Public Schools: The school district has its own fire safety and security personnel, which can be a pathway into public safety with a more regular schedule.

Hiring Insight: Most municipal departments in Broward County, including Hollywood, often require or strongly prefer candidates who have already completed the Broward County Fire Academy. This is a critical first step. Check individual city websites for their specific application windows, which often open in cycles.

Getting Licensed in FL

To be a hired firefighter in Florida, you must be certified and licensed. The process is standardized through the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training (BFST), which works in conjunction with the State Fire Marshal's Office.

Key Requirements:

1. Firefighter Certification (Firefighter I & II): This is the baseline. You must attend a state-approved fire academy, which includes both classroom and hands-on training. The Broward County Fire Academy is a premier provider. Tuition and fees can range from $4,000 to $6,000, depending on if you go through a community college (like Broward College) or a dedicated academy.
2. EMT Certification: In South Florida, almost every firefighter is also an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician). Many departments require it by the time of hire, or you must obtain it within a year of being hired. EMT school is separate and typically takes 1 semester. Cost is around $1,000 - $2,500.
3. Paramedic Certification (Highly Recommended): In competitive markets like South Florida, having your paramedic license is a huge advantage. It can lead to higher pay, more job opportunities, and is often required for promotion to Lieutenant or Captain in many departments. Paramedic school is a significant commitment (typically 12-18 months) and costs $8,000 - $15,000.
4. State Licensure: After completing your training, you apply for your Florida Firefighter Certification (often called "Firecard") and EMT/Paramedic license through the Florida Department of Health (for medical) and the BFST (for fire). Fees are modest: $100-$200 in total.
5. Driver's License & Physical: A valid Florida driver's license and passing a rigorous physical (CPAT - Candidate Physical Ability Test) are mandatory.

Timeline:

• EMT Certification: 6-9 months (can be done before or during fire academy).
• Fire Academy: 6 months (full-time).
• Paramedic Certification: 12-18 months (often done after being hired, sometimes sponsored by the department).
• Total Time to Hire-Ready: 1.5 to 2 years is a realistic timeline if you start from scratch with EMT and Fire Academy.

Insider Tip: Many departments, like Broward County Fire Rescue, run their own academy. Completing their academy can give you a direct pipeline to a job with them. Also, check for departments that offer lateral transfer programs if you're already certified in another state (though you'll still need to meet Florida's specific requirements).

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Living in Hollywood offers a range of options, from beachside to suburban. Your choice depends on commute, lifestyle, and budget.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Average 1BR Rent	Why It's a Good Fit
Downtown Hollywood	Urban, walkable, artsy. Close to stations in the city core.	$1,700 - $2,100	Ultra-short commute. Easy access to restaurants and the beach. Can be noisy and expensive.
South Hollywood (Beach Area)	Quintessential Florida living. Touristy, sunny, near the ocean.	$1,800 - $2,400+	Ideal for beach lovers. Commute to inland stations can be 10-20 mins. High cost of living.
North Central Hollywood	Established suburban. Mix of single-family homes and apartments.	$1,500 - $1,800	More affordable. 5-15 minute commute to most stations. Good for families.
Miramar (West)	Newer suburb, family-oriented, master-planned communities.	$1,550 - $1,900	More home for your money. Commute to Hollywood stations 15-25 mins. Quieter, less traffic.
Pembroke Pines (West)	Similar to Miramar, larger population, great parks.	$1,500 - $1,800	Affordable, safe, and growing. Commute 15-20 mins. Many firefighters live here.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-95, US-1, and the Turnpike is brutal during rush hour. Living close to your assigned station is a major quality-of-life win. If you get hired by Hollywood Fire Rescue, look for apartments in the 33020 or 33021 zip codes for the shortest possible drive. If you're willing to commute 20 minutes, Miramar and Pembroke Pines offer significantly more space and slightly lower rents.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A firefighter's career in Hollywood is a marathon, not a sprint. Growth comes through promotions, certifications, and specialty roles.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Promotional Ladder: Firefighter → Engineer (driver) → Lieutenant → Captain → Battalion Chief. Each step requires passing a civil service exam and interview. Promotions come with pay increases (e.g., moving from a $59,142 median to $75,000+ as a Lieutenant).
• Specialty Certifications: Departments pay premiums for specialized skills. The most valuable in South Florida are:
  • Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Technician: Critical for industrial areas and transport incidents.
  • Technical Rescue (TR): For confined space, high-angle, and trench rescue.
  • Marine/Boat Operator: Essential for coastal cities and canals.
  • Paramedic: As noted, a major career and pay booster.
• Investigations & Prevention: Becoming a Fire Inspector or Fire Investigator is a path away from the 24/7 shift schedule, often with a 9-5 schedule and comparable pay.

10-Year Outlook:
The 4% job growth is solid. South Florida's population continues to grow, and building codes are becoming more stringent, requiring more fire safety oversight. The trend is toward "all-hazards" response, meaning firefighters are first responders for medical calls, technical rescues, and hazardous materials—making certifications like paramedic more valuable than ever. Retirements from the "baby boomer" generation will open up command positions. The biggest challenge will be housing affordability. If the region's housing costs outpace salary increases, it could impact recruitment and retention in the long term.

The Verdict: Is Hollywood Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Competitive Salary: $59,142 median is above the national average.	High Cost of Living: Rent and housing costs are steep, eating into your budget.
Steady Job Market: 307 jobs and 4% growth offer stability.	Traffic & Commute: Daily drives can be long and stressful if you don't live near work.
No State Income Tax: Your take-home pay goes further.	Hurricane Risk: Seasonal stress, mandatory overtime, and potential property damage.
Diverse Call Volume: From high-rises to beach rescues to wildland fires.	Intense Competition: Need EMT/Paramedic to be truly competitive for top departments.
Great Quality of Life: Year-round sun, beaches, and a vibrant Latin culture.	Political & Budget Pressures: Public safety budgets are always under scrutiny.

Final Recommendation:
Hollywood, FL is an excellent choice for a firefighter who values a vibrant, sun-drenched lifestyle and is financially prepared for the high cost of living. It's best for early to mid-career professionals who are willing to invest in paramedic training to maximize earning potential. It's a tough market for a single-income household to buy a home immediately, but with strategic budgeting, overtime, and perhaps a dual income, a comfortable life is very achievable. If you're an adventurous, resilient professional who thrives in a dynamic, diverse environment, Hollywood's fire service community could be a great fit.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to be a Florida resident to apply for a firefighter job here?
A: No, you do not need to be a Florida resident to apply. However, you must have a valid Florida driver's license by the time of hire and be able to relocate for the academy and job.

Q: How competitive is the hiring process for Hollywood Fire Rescue specifically?
A: It's moderately to highly competitive. Having your EMT and completing the Broward County Fire Academy significantly increases your chances. They often receive over 500 applications for 20-30 spots. A clean driving record, no criminal history, and a strong interview are crucial.

Q: What is the typical shift schedule?
A: Most municipal departments in Broward County use a 24-hours on, 48-hours off (24/48) schedule, often with a Kelly Day every few weeks (an extra day off). This is a common and desirable schedule for firefighters.

Q: Is it better to get my paramedic certification before applying or after being hired?
A: Before applying is best. It makes you a top-tier candidate and you may receive a higher starting pay. Some departments will sponsor paramedic school after hire, but you're guaranteed a spot with your certification in hand. In the South Florida market, it's becoming a de facto requirement for the best jobs.

Q: What is the biggest challenge for a new firefighter in Hollywood?
A: The cost of living. The $1,621 average rent on a starting salary requires careful budgeting. Many new firefighters start by having roommates or living in less expensive areas like Miramar or Pembroke Pines to manage finances while they build seniority and pursue promotions.