How to Become a Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance in Iowa
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulances in Iowa earn a median salary of $50,970/year, which is 4% above the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance takes home approximately $1,964/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance can afford in Iowa
Becoming a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance positions in Iowa typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance positions in Iowa require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Iowa licensure or certification
Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Iowa
Iowa employs 1,540 dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances. The highest concentrations are in Ames and Cedar Rapids.
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ames | $57K | $27.17/hr | 40 |
| Cedar Rapids | $56K | $27.06/hr | 170 |
| Dubuque | $55K | $26.38/hr | 60 |
| Iowa City | $55K | $26.37/hr | 80 |
| Sioux City | $50K | $24.16/hr | 100 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $50K | $23.8/hr | 180 |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $49K | $23.65/hr | 390 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $45K | $21.81/hr | 70 |
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salary range in Iowa
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance make in Iowa?▼
The median dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance salary in Iowa is $50,970 per year ($24.51/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $48,880. Salaries range from $34,760 to $79,140.
What are the requirements to become a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Iowa?▼
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance positions in Iowa typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $50,970, a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Iowa would take home approximately $3,376/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances in Iowa are Ames ($56,510), Cedar Rapids ($56,290), Dubuque ($54,860). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $50,970 salary, this means roughly $2,480/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.