How to Become a Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance in Pennsylvania
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulances in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $48,210/year, which is 1% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance takes home approximately $1,863/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 7,450 dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances. The highest concentrations are in Gettysburg and Lebanon.
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gettysburg | $58K | $27.8/hr | 50 |
| Lebanon | $58K | $27.68/hr | 60 |
| Chambersburg | $51K | $24.73/hr | 80 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $49K | $23.56/hr | 3,230 |
| Reading | $49K | $23.46/hr | 250 |
| Lancaster | $48K | $23.21/hr | 380 |
| Pittsburgh | $48K | $23.18/hr | 1,510 |
| York-Hanover | $48K | $23.17/hr | 290 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $48K | $23.09/hr | 420 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $47K | $22.83/hr | 470 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $47K | $22.63/hr | 360 |
| State College | $46K | $22.08/hr | 50 |
| Altoona | $46K | $21.95/hr | 90 |
| Erie | $46K | $21.9/hr | 110 |
| Williamsport | $45K | $21.87/hr | 50 |
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salary range in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania?▼
The median dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance salary in Pennsylvania is $48,210 per year ($23.18/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $48,880. Salaries range from $33,090 to $76,070.
What are the requirements to become a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Pennsylvania?▼
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $48,210, a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $3,275/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.1% 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 Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances in Pennsylvania are Gettysburg ($57,830), Lebanon ($57,570), Chambersburg ($51,440). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $48,210 salary, this means roughly $1,480/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.