How to Become a Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance in Virginia
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulances in Virginia earn a median salary of $46,890/year, which is 4% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.6%. After taxes and rent, a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance takes home approximately $1,716/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance can afford in Virginia
Becoming a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance positions in Virginia typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Virginia
Virginia employs 5,400 dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances. The highest concentrations are in Lynchburg and Charlottesville.
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lynchburg | $52K | $25/hr | 150 |
| Charlottesville | $49K | $23.71/hr | 100 |
| Winchester | $49K | $23.49/hr | 70 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $49K | $23.32/hr | 80 |
| Harrisonburg | $48K | $23.04/hr | 70 |
| Roanoke | $47K | $22.45/hr | 280 |
| Richmond | $46K | $22.35/hr | 1,060 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $46K | $22.18/hr | 1,010 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $39K | $18.7/hr | 130 |
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salary range in Virginia
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 Virginia?▼
The median dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance salary in Virginia is $46,890 per year ($22.54/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $48,880. Salaries range from $35,060 to $72,710.
What are the requirements to become a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Virginia?▼
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance positions in Virginia typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $46,890, a dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Virginia would take home approximately $3,128/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 45.1% 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 Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances in Virginia are Lynchburg ($51,990), Charlottesville ($49,310), Winchester ($48,850). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulances?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.6%. On a $46,890 salary, this means roughly $2,180/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.