Firefighter Career Guide: Scranton, PA

If you're a firefighter considering a move to Scranton, you're looking at a city with a deep industrial history, tight-knit neighborhoods, and a fire service that’s as much a part of the community as the Lackawanna River. Scranton isn’t a sprawling metropolis; it’s a place where you can know the streets by name and the crews by face. As a local analyst, I’ve crunched the numbers, talked to folks in the department, and walked the beats. This guide is the straight talk you need to decide if this electric city is your next stop.

Scranton’s metro area, known officially as the Scranton–Wilkes-Barre–Hazleton area, has a population of about 75,803. The cost of living is notably lower than the national average, with an index of 93.0 (where the U.S. average is 100). For a firefighter, this means your paycheck goes further, especially when you compare it to larger, more expensive cities.

Let's get into the details.

The Salary Picture: Where Scranton Stands

When it comes to compensation, Scranton sits in a unique spot. It’s not the highest-paying region in Pennsylvania, but the low cost of living can make a solid salary feel like a king’s ransom. The median salary for a firefighter in the Scranton metro area is $55,920 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.88. This is slightly below the national average of $57,120 per year, but the gap narrows significantly once you factor in local expenses.

The job market is stable but not explosive, with an estimated 151 firefighter positions in the metro area and a projected 10-year job growth of 4%. This growth is steady, driven by retirements and the need to maintain service levels, rather than rapid expansion.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of salary progression within Scranton’s fire departments:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Scranton)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (Probationary)	$48,000 - $52,000	Basic fire suppression, EMT duties, equipment maintenance, probationary period (1 year).
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$54,000 - $62,000	Leads engine/ladder company operations, advanced medical response, mentorship of new hires.
Senior (8-15 years)	$63,000 - $72,000	Company officer (Lieutenant), incident command, training officer, specialist certifications.
Expert/Command (15+ years)	$72,000 - $90,000+	Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief, Fire Marshal. Highly dependent on department size and union contracts.

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local agency pay scales and union contracts. Overtime, special duty, and education incentives can push total compensation higher.

When compared to other Pennsylvania cities, Scranton’s firefighter salary falls in the middle. For instance, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, with their larger, denser populations and higher cost of living, typically offer higher base salaries. However, the lower living costs in Scranton mean your disposable income may be comparable. For example, a firefighter in Philadelphia might earn $65,000+ but pay significantly more for housing and daily expenses. In Scranton, a $55,920 salary has real purchasing power.

Insider Tip: Scranton’s fire service is heavily unionized (IAFF Local 60). Pay scales are clearly defined and increase based on seniority, education, and rank. Always review the latest collective bargaining agreement before accepting a position, as it details everything from step increases to overtime rules.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s ground the salary in reality. With a median salary of $55,920, what does monthly life look like in Scranton? Here’s a sample budget breakdown for a single firefighter earning this wage, assuming a bi-weekly paycheck and standard deductions (federal/state taxes, FICA, and a modest 5% for retirement).

• Gross Monthly Income: ~$4,660
• Estimated Net Monthly Take-Home: ~$3,450 (after ~26% in taxes & retirement)
• Average 1BR Rent: $854/month
• Utilities (Est.): $150/month
• Groceries: $350/month
• Car Payment/Insurance (20% of take-home): $690/month
• Health Insurance (Est. co-pay): $150/month
• Savings/Discretionary: $856/month

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home value in Scranton is around $170,000. With a $55,920 salary and a modest down payment, a 30-year mortgage is very manageable. A $160,000 loan at 6.5% interest would have a monthly P&I payment of roughly $1,012. When you factor in taxes and insurance, you’re likely under $1,300 a month—which is only marginally higher than renting a larger space. Many Scranton firefighters live in the boroughs and townships, where single-family homes with yards are the norm.

Where the Jobs Are: Scranton's Major Employers

Scranton’s fire service isn’t monolithic. Jobs are split between the city, surrounding boroughs, and townships. Here’s a look at the key players, with specific details a local would know.

1. Scranton Fire Department (SFD): The big one. Covers the City of Scranton (population ~76,000). It’s a busy, urban department with a mix of traditional row-home fires and industrial incidents. They run about 3,500 calls per year. Hiring is competitive and typically done through civil service exams. Hiring Trend: SFD has been in a steady cycle of retirements ("The Silver Tsunami"), opening up opportunities for new hires every 12-18 months.

2. Dunmore Fire Department: A borough adjacent to Scranton. It’s a volunteer-on-call model, supplemented by a few paid per-diem firefighters. This is a common entry point for those looking to get local experience before testing for a full-time paid position.

3. Old Forge Fire Department: Another key borough. Like Dunmore, it’s primarily volunteer. The community is incredibly proud of its fire service, and responding here gives you invaluable local network connections.

4. Lackawanna County Emergency Services: This isn’t a traditional fire department, but it employs Firefighters/EMTs for the county’s Hazmat team and for specialized roles. It’s a great path for someone with advanced technical certifications.

5. Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine (Scranton Campus): While not a fire department, Geisinger is the region’s largest employer and has its own in-house safety and emergency response team, which sometimes seeks personnel with fire and EMS backgrounds.

6. The University of Scranton: The university’s Public Safety department occasionally hires for safety officer roles that benefit from fire service experience. It’s a stable, salaried position with good benefits.

Insider Tip: The most reliable way to get hired full-time is to pass the Civil Service Exam administered by the Scranton Fire Department or the respective borough. These exams are announced in local papers like The Times-Tribune and on the city’s official website. The process is slow, so get on the eligibility list ASAP.

Getting Licensed in PA

Pennsylvania has clear, state-mandated requirements for firefighters. You can’t just show up with a hose; you need the proper certifications.

State Requirements:

• Certification: You must be a certified Firefighter I (FFI) and, often, Firefighter II (FFII) through the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy (SFA). This training covers basic fire suppression, rescue, and hazardous materials awareness.
• EMT-Basic: In Scranton, most paid departments require you to be an EMT-B. The call volume is medically heavy (often 70%+ of runs are EMS-related). The Scranton Fire Department, for example, operates on a "firefighter/EMT" model. Getting your EMT-B is non-negotiable for full-time employment.
• Physical Ability Test (PAT): You must pass a CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) or a department-specific physical, which typically includes stair climbs with weight, equipment drags, and forcible entry simulators.

Costs & Timeline:

• Firefighter I/II Training: This can be completed through the SFA’s regional training center (often at the nearby Penn State Hazleton campus) or through approved community colleges. Expect to pay $2,000 - $3,500 for the course, including gear. It typically takes 6-8 months of night/weekend classes.
• EMT-B Program: Local programs, like those at the Lackawanna College School of Nursing and Allied Health, run about 6 months and cost $1,500 - $2,500.
• CPAT Prep: Many train on their own, but some local gyms offer prep classes. Factor in 2-3 months of dedicated training.

Insider Tip: Take your EMT-B first. It makes you a more attractive candidate for Scranton departments and gives you a fallback career path while you test for fire jobs. Also, volunteer at a local station (like Dunmore or Old Forge) to get your foot in the door and earn your required volunteer hours.

Best Neighborhoods for Firefighters

Where you live in Scranton matters. The city is a patchwork of distinct neighborhoods and surrounding boroughs, each with a different vibe and commute.

1. The Hill (South Scranton): This is classic Scranton—row homes, tight streets, a strong sense of community. It’s close to downtown and SFD headquarters. Commute to SFD Station 1: 5-10 minutes. Avg. 1BR Rent: $750 - $900. Lifestyle: Urban, walkable, but parking can be a challenge.

2. West Side / Keyser Avenue: A mix of residential and commercial. More single-family homes and duplexes. It’s a straight shot to downtown and major hospitals. Commute: 10-15 minutes. Avg. 1BR Rent: $800 - $950. Lifestyle: Balanced, family-friendly, with good access to grocery stores and gyms.

3. Dunmore (Borough): Just east of Scranton. Think small-town feel with city convenience. The fire hall is central, and the community is incredibly supportive of first responders. Commute: 10 minutes to downtown Scranton. Avg. 1BR Rent: $775 - $925. Lifestyle: Quiet, residential, great for raising a family. Strong volunteer fire culture.

4. Old Forge (Borough): South of Scranton, famous for its pizza and strong community ties. It’s a bit more suburban, with more space. Commute: 15-20 minutes to downtown. Avg. 1BR Rent: $800 - $950. Lifecycle: Family-oriented, very community-focused, less traffic.

5. Clarks Green/Clarks Summit (Townships): A step up in terms of suburban sprawl. Larger homes, rolling lawns, and a quieter pace. This is where many senior firefighters and officers live. Commute: 20-25 minutes to downtown. Avg. 1BR Rent: $900 - $1,100. Lifestyle: Suburban, excellent schools, more car-dependent.

Insider Tip: If you’re single and want to be in the heart of the action, The Hill or West Side are your best bets. If you have a family or want more space, look at Dunmore or Old Forge. The commute is short from any of these places—Scranton isn’t a city you spend hours stuck in traffic.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Scranton offers a predictable but stable career ladder. Advancement is based on seniority, testing, and additional qualifications.

• Specialty Premiums: Departments offer stipends for advanced certifications. For example:

  • EMT-Paramedic: While not universal, having your paramedic license can open doors to county or regional EMS roles and come with a monthly premium (often $150-$300) in some departments.
  • Technical Rescue & Hazmat: Certifications in confined space, rope rescue, or as a Hazmat Technician can lead to assignment on specialty teams.
  • Fire Investigation: Becoming a certified Fire Inspector (through the PA State Fire Commissioner’s office) can lead to a transition to the Fire Marshal’s office, a less physically demanding but crucial role.

• Advancement Path: The typical path is: Firefighter → Engineer (if your department uses that rank) → Lieutenant → Captain → Battalion Chief. Each step requires passing an oral board and written exam.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% job growth is solid. You’ll see steady retirements, creating openings. The biggest change on the horizon is the continued integration of EMS and fire services. Having dual certifications (FF/EMT or FF/Paramedic) will be a significant advantage. While Scranton won’t see massive new fire station construction, the need for skilled, certified personnel will remain constant.

The Verdict: Is Scranton Right for You?

Scranton isn’t for everyone. It’s a gritty, honest city that rewards those who invest in the community. Here’s the final breakdown.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $55,920 salary goes far, allowing for homeownership and savings.	Lower Salary Ceiling: Base pay is lower than in major metros like Philly or NYC.
Tight-Knit Community: Fire service here is a family. You’ll know everyone, and the community supports you.	Limited Nightlife/Culture: It’s a quiet city. If you crave big-city amenities, you’ll be disappointed.
Stable Job Market: Government jobs with strong pensions and benefits.	Weather: Harsh winters with heavy snow and ice can make calls more dangerous.
Manageable Commutes: You’ll rarely spend more than 20 minutes getting to work.	Industrial Legacy: Some neighborhoods still bear the marks of post-industrial decline, which can mean more complex structure fires.

Final Recommendation: Scranton is an excellent choice for a firefighter who values stability, community, and a high quality of life on a moderate salary. If you’re the type of person who enjoys knowing your neighbors, helping in a community where you’re respected, and having disposable income to buy a home and raise a family, this city will welcome you with open arms. If you’re chasing the highest possible salary or the buzz of a major metropolis, you should look east or west. For the right candidate, Scranton is a place to build a life, not just a career.

FAQs

1. I’m an out-of-state firefighter. Will my certifications transfer to Pennsylvania?

• Answer: Possibly, but you will likely need to challenge the PA State Fire Academy’s Firefighter I/II exam to get state certification. Your previous experience and training will help you pass, but you must go through the process. Contact the PA State Fire Academy for a credential evaluation.

2. How competitive is the Scranton Fire Department exam?

• Answer: Very competitive. The civil service list is often long. You need a high score to be called from the list. This is why having your EMT-B and a clean record is critical. The process can take 6-18 months from exam to hire.

3. Is the cost of living really that low?

• Answer: Yes. A $55,920 salary in Scranton feels more like a $70,000+ salary in a city like Philadelphia or Austin when you factor in housing, groceries, and transportation. The Cost of Living Index of 93.0 (US=100) proves it.

4. What’s the biggest challenge for new firefighters in Scranton?

• Answer: The winter. Snow can make access to row-home fires difficult, and ice is a constant hazard during calls. You need to be mentally and physically prepared for operating in extreme cold and slippery conditions.

5. Can I survive on the entry-level salary?

• Answer: Absolutely. With an average 1BR rent of $854, your rent would be only about 25% of your net monthly income, well within the recommended 30% threshold. You can live comfortably, even on a starting salary, while you build seniority.