How much does a Emergency Dispatcher make?
An Emergency Dispatcher plays a crucial role in keeping communities safe. They handle calls for help and direct emergency services. This job is both important and rewarding. The average yearly salary for an Emergency Dispatcher is around $54,928. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
Emergency Dispatchers can earn different amounts depending on where they work and how long they have been in the job. The lowest 10% earn about $32,000 a year. The highest 10% earn over $108,000. Most dispatchers fall somewhere in the middle. This range shows that with more experience, earnings can grow. It also shows that some areas may offer higher pay than others.
What are the highest paying cities for a Emergency Dispatcher?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $110,796
In San Francisco, emergency dispatchers play a crucial role in ensuring public safety. They work for companies like American Medical Response, handling calls from residents and businesses. The city's diverse population and urban environment require quick, effective responses.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $73,130
Fresno offers a stable environment for emergency dispatchers. They work for organizations like American Ambulance, providing essential services. The city's growing population means dispatchers must stay alert and efficient.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $71,578
San Diego dispatchers are vital for the city's safety. They work for companies like Fire Rescue 1, responding to emergencies swiftly. The coastal location and tourist influx require dispatchers to be well-trained and adaptable.
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Reno, NV
Average Salary: $67,879
In Reno, emergency dispatchers work for companies like Reno-Sparks Ambulance. They handle a variety of calls, from medical emergencies to accidents. The city's unique geography and climate demand a high level of preparedness.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $67,415
Portland dispatchers are key to the city's emergency response. They work for companies like American Medical Response. The city's progressive nature and diverse community require dispatchers to be compassionate and knowledgeable.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $64,524
In Washington, DC, dispatchers work for organizations like American Ambulance. They handle calls from a diverse and high-density population. The city's political and cultural significance means dispatchers must be highly professional and responsive.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $62,207
Boston dispatchers work for companies like American Medical Response. They handle a wide range of emergencies, from medical crises to accidents. The city's rich history and large student population require dispatchers to be well-versed in various situations.
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Pueblo, CO
Average Salary: $61,719
In Pueblo, emergency dispatchers work for companies like American Ambulance. They provide essential services to the community. The city's smaller size means dispatchers build strong relationships with local emergency services.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $61,334
Baltimore dispatchers work for organizations like American Ambulance. They handle a variety of calls, from medical emergencies to accidents. The city's urban environment and diverse population require dispatchers to be quick and efficient.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $59,183
In Denver, emergency dispatchers work for companies like American Medical Response. They provide critical services to the city's residents. The city's high altitude and active lifestyle mean dispatchers must be prepared for a wide range of situations.
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What are the best companies a Emergency Dispatcher can work for?

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City of Napa
Average Salary: $94,671
The City of Napa offers rewarding Emergency Dispatcher jobs. They provide excellent benefits and training. This company operates in Napa, California.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $77,519
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides competitive salaries for Emergency Dispatchers. They offer a variety of locations across the state, including Boston and Springfield.
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State of Colorado
Average Salary: $64,130
The State of Colorado offers Emergency Dispatcher jobs with a good salary. They operate in cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins.
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State of Nevada
Average Salary: $62,967
The State of Nevada offers Emergency Dispatcher positions with a solid salary. They operate in cities such as Las Vegas, Reno, and Carson City.
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Colorado Department of Public Safety
Average Salary: $62,945
The Colorado Department of Public Safety provides Emergency Dispatcher jobs with a good salary. They operate in various locations across the state, including Denver and Colorado Springs.
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State of Iowa
Average Salary: $61,192
The State of Iowa offers Emergency Dispatcher jobs with a good salary. They operate in cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport.
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State of Alaska
Average Salary: $57,862
The State of Alaska provides Emergency Dispatcher jobs with a competitive salary. They operate in cities such as Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau.
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U.S. National Park Service
Average Salary: $56,519
The U.S. National Park Service offers Emergency Dispatcher jobs with a good salary. They operate in various national parks across the country, including Yellowstone and Grand Canyon.
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City of Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $52,850
The City of Manchester, NH, offers Emergency Dispatcher jobs with a good salary. They operate in Manchester, New Hampshire.
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Forestry Department
Average Salary: $52,014
The Forestry Department provides Emergency Dispatcher jobs with a good salary. They operate in various locations across the country, focusing on forest management and protection.
How to earn more as a Emergency Dispatcher?
Emergency dispatchers play a crucial role in keeping communities safe. They handle calls from people in distress and coordinate the response. If you work in this field, you can take steps to increase your earnings. Here are some ways to earn more as an emergency dispatcher.
First, gaining experience can lead to higher pay. Many employers offer higher wages to dispatchers with more years on the job. Experience allows you to handle calls more efficiently and make better decisions quickly. Second, obtaining additional certifications can boost your salary. Certifications in areas like advanced medical dispatch or hazardous materials can make you more valuable to employers. Third, pursuing further education can also lead to higher pay. Some dispatchers choose to earn a degree in emergency management or a related field. This education can open up higher-paying positions.
Fourth, working in a high-demand area can increase your earnings. Some regions have a higher need for emergency dispatchers, leading to higher wages. Consider relocating to these areas if the opportunity arises. Fifth, taking on extra responsibilities can lead to a pay increase. Many dispatchers find that volunteering for additional duties, such as training new staff or managing shifts, can result in higher pay or bonuses. These steps can help you earn more in your career as an emergency dispatcher.
- Gain experience
- Obtain additional certifications
- Pursue further education
- Work in a high-demand area
- Take on extra responsibilities



