How to Become a Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance in Tennessee
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulances in Tennessee earn a median salary of $48,070/year, which is 2% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance takes home approximately $1,977/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 4,370 dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances. The highest concentrations are in Memphis and Morristown.
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $51K | $24.28/hr | 1,070 |
| Morristown | $50K | $23.95/hr | 90 |
| Knoxville | $50K | $23.9/hr | 510 |
| Jackson | $49K | $23.7/hr | 170 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $48K | $23.18/hr | 1,210 |
| Clarksville | $48K | $22.89/hr | 180 |
| Cleveland | $48K | $22.84/hr | 50 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $45K | $21.65/hr | 150 |
| Chattanooga | $38K | $18.38/hr | 410 |
| Johnson City | $38K | $18.37/hr | 50 |
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salary range in Tennessee
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 Tennessee?▼
The median dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance salary in Tennessee is $48,070 per year ($23.11/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $48,880. Salaries range from $32,040 to $65,150.
What are the requirements to become a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Tennessee?▼
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $48,070, a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,389/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.7% 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 Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances in Tennessee are Memphis ($50,500), Morristown ($49,810), Knoxville ($49,710). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.