A Firefighter's Guide to Roswell, New Mexico

The Salary Picture: Where Roswell Stands

As a career analyst who's tracked New Mexico's public safety jobs for over a decade, I can tell you that Roswell offers a unique value proposition for firefighters. The city isn't booming, but the cost of living is more forgiving than Albuquerque or Santa Fe. Let's look at the hard numbers.

The local data shows a median salary for firefighters in Roswell of $56,006 per year, which breaks down to $26.93 per hour. This is slightly below the national average of $57,120/year, a common pattern for rural metro areas. However, when you factor in Roswell's low cost of living, that gap narrows significantly. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) tracks this metro area under the "Roswell, NM" classification, and the employment count is modest—there are approximately 95 firefighting jobs in the metro area. The 10-year job growth projection is 4%, which is stable but not explosive. This suggests a reliable market where positions open up due to retirements rather than massive expansion.

To give you a clearer picture of earning potential over time, here's a breakdown by experience level. These are realistic estimates based on Roswell's municipal pay scales and regional trends.

Experience Level	Annual Salary Range (Low to High)	Key Factors
Entry-Level (Probationary)	$42,000 - $49,000	Starting pay, typically 6-12 months on probation. Focus on training and integration.
Mid-Level (Firefighter/EMT)	$54,000 - $62,000	3-7 years on the job. Additional certifications (EMT-B, Driver/Operator) boost pay.
Senior (Engineer/Acting Captain)	$63,000 - $72,000	8-15 years. Specialized roles, leadership, and shift premiums.
Expert (Battalion Chief)	$78,000+	15+ years. Command staff with significant departmental responsibilities.

Compared to other New Mexico cities, Roswell's firefighter salary sits in a middle ground. Albuquerque's median is closer to $62,000, but its cost of living is about 8% higher. Santa Fe firefighters can earn $65,000+, but housing costs are a major hurdle. Las Cruces is a closer peer to Roswell, with salaries around $53,000 and a similar cost of living. For a single-income household aiming for a balanced lifestyle, Roswell's $56,006 median is a solid foundation.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about the paycheck. With a median salary of $56,006, you're looking at a monthly gross income of about $4,667. After federal and state taxes (assuming single filing, no dependents), your take-home pay drops to approximately $3,600 - $3,800 per month. This is a critical baseline.

Roswell's average 1-bedroom apartment rent is $935 per month. This is a significant advantage over most metro areas. Let's build a realistic monthly budget for a firefighter earning the median salary.

Budget Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$3,700	After taxes, based on $56,006 salary.
Rent (1-Bedroom)	$935	Average for the metro area.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$220	Varies by season; summer AC is the biggest factor.
Groceries	$350	For one person.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Assuming a modest car payment and full coverage.
Fuel	$120	Commute to downtown or the airport district.
Health Insurance	$200	Typically covered by the department, but copays and dental.
Retirement (NM PERA)	$280	Mandatory 11% contribution for employees.
Discretionary/Savings	$1,145	For entertainment, travel, savings, or debt.

Takeaway: With this budget, you have a healthy $1,145 left for discretionary spending, savings, or debt repayment. This is a comfortable margin. Can you afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Roswell is around $220,000. A 20% down payment is $44,000, which is achievable with disciplined saving over 3-5 years, especially if you have a partner with an income. A mortgage on a $220,000 home (assuming 30-year, 6.5% interest) would be roughly $1,400/month, including taxes and insurance. This is only $465 more than average rent, making homeownership a very realistic goal for a Roswell firefighter.

Where the Jobs Are: Roswell's Major Employers

The firefighting job market in Roswell is straightforward, dominated by municipal and county services. There are no large private industrial fire brigades like you might find in Houston or the Gulf Coast. Here are the key players:

1. Roswell Fire Department (RFD): The primary employer. They operate 8 fire stations across the city, from the historic downtown hub near the Roswell Museum and Art Center to the newer stations near the South Park Mall area. RFD runs a mix of Engine and Ladder companies, plus a HazMat team. They are steadily hiring to replace retirees. Insider Tip: RFD places a high value on EMT-Basic certification. If you come in with it, you're a stronger candidate.

2. Chaves County Fire & Rescue: Covers the areas outside the city limits. This includes the sprawling southeastern parts of the county, including agricultural zones and the roadways to places like Bottomless Lakes State Park. They often look for firefighters with wildland experience, given the risk of grassfires. Hiring Trend: They have been expanding their brush truck fleet, indicating a focus on wildland response.

3. New Mexico State Fire Marshal (Southern District): Based in Roswell, this state agency investigates fires, enforces building codes, and provides training. Positions are competitive and often require prior firefighting experience. It's a good long-term goal for someone looking to move from operations to inspection/investigation.

4. Southwest Regional Medical Center (SRMC): While not a fire department, SRMC is a major employer in the city and a frequent partner for EMS. Firefighters often cross-train and may have opportunities for per-diem work in hospital security or EMS transport. The ER at SRMC is the main trauma receiving center for the region.

5. Roswell Independent School District (RISD): RFD and RISD have a strong partnership. Some firefighters work as school resource officers or participate in fire safety education programs in schools. This can be a pathway for additional, part-time income.

6. Federal Agencies (Bureau of Land Management & US Forest Service): While not full-time city firefighter jobs, these agencies are critical for seasonal wildland firefighting. They provide excellent supplemental income and are great for building experience and contacts. The BLM's Roswell Field Office is a key location.

7. City of Roswell (Other Divisions): The City of Roswell is a large employer. Knowing someone in Public Works, Parks & Rec, or the Airport can be an advantage. The Roswell International Air Center has its own safety protocols, and while they have a public safety contract, RFD is the primary responder.

Getting Licensed in NM

New Mexico has a clear, structured path to becoming a certified firefighter. It's not the most expensive or lengthy process, but it is mandatory.

The New Mexico Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is the governing body. You cannot work as a firefighter in the state without a certification from the OSFM, which generally means completing a state-approved training program.

Key Requirements & Timeline:

1. Basic Firefighter Certification (NM Firefighter I): This is the core requirement. You must complete a state-certified training academy. The most common route is through the New Mexico Fire Academy (NMFA) in Socorro or a certified program like the one at Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell (ENMU-R). The ENMU-R program is a major local asset.
2. EMT-Basic: Almost all fire departments in NM, including Roswell, require EMT-B. This is a separate certification, typically a 6-8 month course. ENMU-R offers this as well.
3. Costs: Tuition for the NM Firefighter I course is approximately $1,200 - $1,500. EMT-B can cost $800 - $1,200. You'll also need to budget for gear. While agencies often provide turnout gear, you may need to buy your own boots, helmet, and personal equipment, which can run $300 - $500.
4. Timeline: From starting EMT-B to completing Firefighter I, you're looking at 9-12 months of dedicated training. Many candidates work part-time or take out student loans. Some departments, like RFD, offer tuition reimbursement or have their own recruit academies that include the certification, so it's worth applying even if you're not yet certified.

Insider Tip: The Roswell Fire Department often hosts or sponsors recruit classes. Keep a close eye on their city website job postings. Getting hired as a trainee can be the most cost-effective path.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Choosing where to live in Roswell depends on your shift schedule, commute, and lifestyle. Here’s a local’s perspective:

1. Downtown/ Historic District: Fantastic walkability to cafes (like the historic Rockhouse Café), the Anderson Museum of Art, and Spring River Park & Zoo. Commute to Central Station (Station 1) is a 5-10 minute drive or a bike ride. Rent for a 1BR in this area is $850 - $1,100. Best for: Social firefighters who want to be in the heart of the action.

2. South Park / Near the Mall: This is a popular area for young professionals and families. It's close to the South Park Mall, great schools, and the Roswell Recreation and Aquatic Center. A direct commute to most fire stations is 10-15 minutes. Rent for a modern 1BR is $950 - $1,200. Best for: Those wanting amenities and convenience.

3. Near ENMU-Roswell: A quiet, affordable neighborhood with a mix of students and long-time residents. It's very close to the university, which is great if you're taking classes. Commute to the eastern stations (like Station 5) is easy. Rent for a 1BR is $700 - $900. Best for: Firefighters in training or on a budget.

4. North Main / Country Club Area: One of the more established, slightly upscale neighborhoods with larger homes and yards. It's a peaceful area, about a 10-15 minute drive to downtown stations. Rent for a 1BR is $900 - $1,050. Best for: Someone looking for a quieter residential feel with a bit more space.

5. West 2nd / Near the Mill: This area is more affordable and has a gritty, industrial charm. It's close to the Roswell Industrial Air Center and offers quick access to Highway 285. It's not as "walkable" as Downtown, but you get more square footage for your dollar. Rent for a 1BR is $650 - $850. Best for: Budget-conscious firefighters who don't mind a shorter commute and don't need nightlife at their doorstep.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A firefighter career in Roswell is about stability and incremental growth, not rapid corporate-style promotion. The 10-year outlook is steady, with the 4% job growth indicating a need for replacements rather than expansion.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Driver/Operator (Engineer): Requires additional certification. Adds a pay premium (often $1 - $2/hour more).
• EMT-Intermediate/Paramedic: The single biggest career booster in NM fire service. Paramedic certification can add $5,000 - $10,000 to your annual base salary. Roswell's EMS system is 911-based, making these skills highly valuable.
• Fire Inspector/Investigator: Requires additional state certifications. Moves you from shift work to a more regular schedule, often with a pay increase. The State Fire Marshal's office is a potential destination.
• Battalion Chief: This is the ultimate leadership goal, requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree (often in Fire Science or Public Administration) and many years of service.

10-Year Outlook: Over the next decade, expect a continued emphasis on wildfire mitigation, given Roswell's location in the high desert. The role of the firefighter will continue to merge with emergency medical services. The retirement of the Baby Boomer generation will create openings, but competition for senior positions will remain. Building a specialty—like being a certified hazmat tech or a paramedic—will be crucial for advancement.

The Verdict: Is Roswell Right for You?

Pros (The Upside)	Cons (The Challenges)
Excellent Cost of Living vs. salary. A single firefighter can live comfortably and save.	Limited Job Market. With only ~95 jobs, openings are competitive. You must be patient.
Stable, Predictable Department. RFD has a good reputation and clear career paths.	Isolation & Distance. It's a 3-hour drive to Albuquerque for major events or specialized shopping.
Strong Sense of Community. Firefighters are highly respected here. You'll know your neighbors.	Economic Base is Limited. The economy is tied to agriculture, oil/gas, and education. Not a growth hub.
Access to Outdoor Recreation. Hiking at Bottomless Lakes, hunting, and clear skies are a major perk.	Summer Heat. July and August can be brutal, with temps over 100°F, making wildland fires a serious threat.
No State Income Tax on Retirement: A huge long-term financial benefit of the NM PERA system.	Political Climate. The city and state can have bureaucratic hurdles for new programs or equipment.

Final Recommendation:
Roswell is an excellent choice for a firefighter who values stability, affordability, and a tight-knit community over high-octane career advancement or a bustling urban lifestyle. It's ideal for a single person or a couple where one partner's income (a firefighter's $56,006) is the primary budget anchor. If you're a self-starter who enjoys the outdoors, doesn't mind a slower pace, and is willing to specialize (get your Paramedic cert!), you can build a fulfilling, financially secure career here. It's not a place to get rich, but it's a fantastic place to live well.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to be certified before applying to the Roswell Fire Department?
A: No, but it helps immensely. RFD often hires candidates and puts them through their own recruit academy, which includes the necessary NM Firefighter I certification. However, having your EMT-B and Firefighter I already done makes you a top-tier applicant.

Q: What's the cost of living really like? Is it as cheap as it seems?
A: It is genuinely affordable, but with caveats. The Cost of Living Index of 93.5 (US avg=100) is real. Your biggest savings are on housing and utilities. Groceries and goods are slightly above average due to shipping costs to a rural area. A car is an absolute necessity.

Q: How competitive are the fire department jobs there?
A: With only 95 jobs in the metro area, it's competitive but not impossible. Departments run on a roster system, and they hire when retirements occur. The key is to be persistent, get your certifications, and network. Attend open houses at RFD and get to know the people.

Q: Is the Roswell area safe for living?
A: Yes, the neighborhoods listed above are generally very safe. Like any city, property crime can occur, but violent crime is low. The fire service community is very close-knit, and you'll quickly learn which areas to avoid.

Q: What's the EMS system like?
A: It's a "third service" model. Roswell Fire Department provides EMS response for 911 calls, transporting patients to Southwest Regional Medical Center. It's a busy, consistent system that will give you solid experience. Getting your EMT or Paramedic license is the best way to add value and income.