Here is a comprehensive career guide for Firefighters considering a move to Racine, Wisconsin.

Firefighter Career Guide: Racine, WI

As a career analyst who has spent years studying the professional landscape of Wisconsin, I’ve seen how cities shape firefighter careers. Racine is a unique spot—a historic manufacturing hub nestled between Milwaukee and Chicago. It’s got that gritty, blue-collar spirit, but it’s also changing. If you’re considering a move here, you need the real picture: not just the heroism of the job, but the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the long-term viability. This guide isn’t about selling you on Racine; it’s about giving you the data to decide for yourself.

The Salary Picture: Where Racine Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that pay the bills. Firefighting isn’t a get-rich-quick profession anywhere, but understanding the local pay scale is crucial. In Racine, the financial reality is a mix of stability and modest growth compared to larger metro areas.

The median salary for a Firefighter in Racine is $56,263 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.05. This is slightly below the national average of $57,120. It’s a common story in smaller Midwestern cities—you trade a slightly lower paycheck for a significantly lower cost of living.

The job market is tight but present. There are approximately 153 Firefighter jobs in the metro area, with a 10-year job growth projection of 4%. That’s slower than the national average for the profession, reflecting a mature market. You’re not walking into an expanding force, but turnover does happen due to retirements. It’s a competitive field where having your credentials in order from day one makes all the difference.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salaries in Racine’s fire departments typically follow a structured ladder. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect as you gain experience:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities & Notes
Entry-Level (Probationary)	$48,000 - $52,000	This is your first 1-2 years. Expect rigorous training, ride-alongs, and mastering basic fireground operations. You’ll be learning the city’s specific risks, from industrial sites along the lakefront to older residential structures.
Mid-Level (Firefighter/EMT)	$56,000 - $65,000	At this stage, you’re a full-fledged crew member. This is where the median salary sits. You’re handling all types of calls, from medical assists to structure fires. Many in Racine also carry their EMT or Paramedic certification, which can influence starting pay.
Senior (Engineer/Lieutenant)	$70,000 - $85,000	Promotion comes with greater responsibility. Engineers drive and operate apparatus; Lieutenants are front-line supervisors. These roles often require additional testing and certifications. Seniority and shift premiums add up.
Expert (Captain/Chief Officer)	$85,000+	Command staff roles involve strategic planning, administration, and complex incident management. Salaries here are competitive but depend heavily on the specific department and its union contract.

Comparison to Other WI Cities

How does Racine stack up against its Wisconsin neighbors? It’s a middle-ground option.

• Milwaukee: The big city offers higher pay—median salary closer to $60,000-$65,000—but the cost of living, especially housing, is significantly higher. The call volume is immense, offering more experience but also more burnout risk.
• Madison: State capital, with a strong economy. Salaries are competitive with Milwaukee, and the political environment is different. Rent is high.
• Green Bay: Similar in size to Racine but with a different industrial base. Salaries are roughly comparable, perhaps a touch lower. It’s a strong community with a loyal fanbase, which translates to civic pride.
• Kenosha: Just south of Racine, our direct neighbor. Salaries and cost of living are almost identical. The job market is a shared pool; many candidates apply to both Racine and Kenosha.

Insider Tip: Don’t just look at the base salary. Ask about shift differentials, education incentives, and take-home vehicle programs. In Racine, some departments offer a small stipend for holding an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fire science or a related field.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A median salary of $56,263 sounds solid, but what’s left after Uncle Sam and the landlord? Let’s break it down for a single person with no dependents, using Racine’s specific data.

• Annual Gross Income: $56,263
• Estimated Annual Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$12,500 (This is an estimate; your actual tax burden depends on deductions, retirement contributions, etc.)
• Estimated Annual Take-Home Pay: ~$43,763
• Monthly Take-Home Pay: ~$3,647

Now, let’s layer on housing costs. The average 1-bedroom rent in Racine is $842/month. This is very reasonable compared to national averages and the state’s larger cities.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Firefighter Earning $56,263

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes & Reality Check
Take-Home Pay	$3,647	After taxes and standard deductions (health insurance, retirement).
Rent (1BR Average)	$842	You can find nicer places for ~$950 or more basic spots for $750. This is a manageable portion of income.
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Water)	$180	Wisconsin winters mean higher heating bills.
Groceries	$350	For one person, eating a mix of home-cooked and occasional takeout.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Assuming a modest car payment ($250) and full coverage insurance ($150).
Fuel	$150	Dependent on commute, but most in Racine are within a 20-30 minute drive.
Healthcare (Out-of-Pocket)	$100	Copays, prescriptions, etc., beyond employer-sponsored insurance.
Retirement Savings (5-10%)	$200	Crucial. This is on top of any pension contribution.
Discretionary Spending	$1,425	This is your buffer for eating out, entertainment, travel, and savings.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, absolutely. This is Racine’s biggest advantage. With a take-home of ~$3,647 and a modest rent of $842, you’re saving ~$2,800/month after covering all other living expenses. A typical 3-bedroom home in a safe, working-class neighborhood in Racine costs between $150,000 - $220,000. With a 10% down payment ($15k-$22k), your mortgage, taxes, and insurance would likely be under $1,200/month—still a very healthy percentage of your take-home pay. This is a realistic path to building equity, something much harder in Milwaukee or Madison.

Where the Jobs Are: Racine's Major Employers

Racine’s fire service is primarily municipal. The “fire department” is your employer. However, the local economy and related industries create opportunities and context.

1. Racine Fire Department (RFD): The primary employer. It’s a full-service, career department protecting a city of about 76,000. They run a mix of engine, ladder, and rescue companies. They have a strong focus on industrial fire protection due to the city’s history. Hiring is periodic and highly competitive.
2. Mount Pleasant Fire Department: This village borders Racine to the south and west. It’s a growing suburb with a mix of residential and commercial areas (including the massive Amazon fulfillment center). They often hire for similar pay and benefits. A commute of 10-15 minutes from most of Racine.
3. Caledonia Fire Department: To the north and west of Racine, covering a mix of rural, suburban, and light industrial areas. They offer a different operational tempo than the city. A good option for those who prefer slightly less dense call volume.
4. Sturtevant Fire Department: A small village department nestled between Racine and Mount Pleasant. They often seek candidates with strong EMT or paramedic skills, as their call volume is heavily medical.
5. Racine County Sheriff’s Office / EMS: While not the fire department, the county’s EMS system is a significant employer for paramedics. Some firefighters work dual roles or transition here. It’s a different structure but part of the same public safety ecosystem.
6. Local Industrial Plants (John Deere, SC Johnson, etc.): While not direct firefighter employers, these large manufacturers have internal fire brigades or work closely with RFD on mutual aid and pre-planning. Having industrial firefighting training can be a resume booster.
7. Gateway Technical College: Not an employer for firefighting, but the educational pipeline. They offer the Fire Medic program and EMT/Paramedic certifications. Many local firefighters are instructors here.

Hiring Trend: Departments are increasingly looking for candidates who are already certified as EMTs or Paramedics. The trend is toward “all-hazards” response, where medical calls make up 70-80% of the run sheet. Having that certification before you apply moves you to the top of the pile.

Getting Licensed in WI

Wisconsin has a clear path to becoming a career firefighter, but it’s a process that takes time and money.

1. High School Diploma/GED: The absolute minimum.
2. EMT Certification (The New Baseline): Most departments, including Racine, require you to be a certified EMT. This is a 1-semester course that costs $1,000 - $1,500 at a technical college (like Gateway). It’s your foot in the door. Timeline: 4-6 months.
3. Firefighter I & II Certification (Fire Academy): This is the core training. You can attend a full-time academy (like the one at Madison College or Fox Valley Tech) or a part-time program. The curriculum is standardized by the WI Technical College System. Cost: $3,000 - $5,000. Timeline: 6-12 months if done full-time.
4. Paramedic (Optional but Highly Recommended): To be truly competitive in Racine, consider getting your Paramedic license. This is a 1-2 year commitment and costs $5,000 - $10,000+. The salary bump and hireability increase are significant.
5. State Fire Inspector/Instructor Certs: Additional certifications can help with promotion down the line.

Total Estimated Cost (EMT + Fire Academy): $4,000 - $6,500. This is a major investment, but it’s non-negotiable. Many candidates work part-time jobs or take out loans during training.

Insider Tip: Apply to the Racine Fire Department while you are in the academy. They have a “conditional hire” process where they will hold a spot for you if you pass the academy. Don’t wait until you’re fully certified to start the application process.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Where you live affects your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Racine is a city of distinct neighborhoods.

1. Mount Pleasant (West Side): This is the most popular choice for young professionals and firefighters. It’s safe, has great amenities (Target, grocery stores), and is a straight shot down Highway 20 or I-94 to the fire stations. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a nice 1BR. Commute: 10-15 minutes.
2. Downtown Racine / Northside: Closer to the action, with historic charm and walkable streets. You’ll be near the lakefront, restaurants, and the Racine Art Museum. It’s more eclectic and can be block-by-block in terms of safety. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month. Commute: 5-10 minutes to most stations.
3. Sturtevant / Village of Mount Pleasant: A bit more suburban and quiet. Excellent if you want a single-family home with a yard. Very safe. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,000/month for a 1BR or small house. Commute: 5-15 minutes.
4. Caledonia (Northwest): More rural feel, with larger properties and a slower pace. Great for those who want to be away from the city hustle but still have quick access via Highway 32. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000/month. Commute: 15-20 minutes to city stations.
5. Browns Lake / Yorkville: Southeastern suburbs. Similar to Caledonia, more residential and family-oriented. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,050/month. Commute: 15-25 minutes.

Neighborhood Insight: If you’re single and new to the area, start in Mount Pleasant or Downtown. You’ll find a community of young public servants. If you’re looking to buy a home quickly, the northwest side of the city or Caledonia offers the best value.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A firefighter’s career is a marathon, not a sprint. In Racine, the path is structured but offers room for specialization.

• Specialty Premiums: Departments often pay extra for specialized skills. While specific amounts vary, holding certifications in HazMat Operations, Technical Rescue (rope, confined space, water), or as a Fire Inspector can lead to annual stipends or higher placement on the promotion list. Being a Paramedic is the single biggest career multiplier.
• Advancement Paths: The standard ladder is Firefighter -> Engineer -> Lieutenant -> Captain -> Battalion Chief. Advancement is based on seniority, written exams, oral boards, and sometimes interviews. It’s a competitive, merit-based system.
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 4% job growth rate, the field isn’t exploding. However, the wave of retirements from the baby boomer generation will create openings. The key will be versatility. Firefighters who are also paramedics, have fire science degrees, and can teach or inspect will have the best long-term prospects. The trend is toward more community risk reduction and medical response, so embracing those roles will serve you well.

The Verdict: Is Racine Right for You?

Racine isn’t a glamorous destination, but it’s a solid, affordable place to build a career and a life. It’s for the firefighter who values community, stability, and homeownership over big-city excitement.

Pros	Cons
Very Affordable Cost of Living: You can buy a home on a single income.	Slower Job Growth: Fewer new positions opening up.
Strong Sense of Community: You’re a local hero in a tight-knit city.	Industrial Legacy: Some areas have economic challenges.
Proximity to Major Cities: Easy day trips to Milwaukee or Chicago.	Weather: Harsh winters with lake-effect snow.
Diverse Call Volume: From high-rise fires to industrial incidents.	Political Climate: Municipal budgets can be tight, affecting resources.
Manageable Commute: No long drives to the station.	Competitive Hiring: You need every certification to stand out.

Final Recommendation: For a mid-career firefighter with EMT/Paramedic certs looking for a place to put down roots and buy a house, Racine is an excellent choice. For a brand-new recruit with no certifications, the financial barrier to getting licensed is high, but Racine’s affordability makes it easier to manage than in many other places. If you’re willing to invest in your education upfront, Racine offers a stable, rewarding career path.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to live in Racine to work for the Racine Fire Department?
A: No, there is no residency requirement. You can live in Mount Pleasant, Caledonia, or even parts of Milwaukee County, as long as you can get to the station quickly for call-backs (typically within 30-60 minutes).

Q: What is the shift schedule like?
A: Most departments in the area, including Racine, use a 24-hours-on, 48-hours-off schedule. Some use a 24/48/24/96 pattern. It’s a common structure that allows for significant time off between shifts.

Q: How competitive is the hiring process?
A: Very. For every opening, there may be 100+ applicants. The written exam is the first filter. Then a physical ability test (CPAT), an interview, and a background check. Having your EMT and Fire Academy certifications already completed is a massive advantage.

Q: What’s the pension system like?
A: Wisconsin uses the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS), a defined-benefit pension. It’s a strong system that provides a solid retirement income. You contribute a percentage of your salary, and the employer matches. It’s one of the best state pension systems in the country.

Sources:

• Salary Data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Metropolitan Area Data.
• Cost of Living & Rent: Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), Sperling’s BestPlaces.
• Licensing: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), Wisconsin Technical College System.