Dispatcher Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median dispatcher salary in Des Moines, IA is $43,038 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Dispatcher Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median dispatcher salary of $43,038, which is $1,404 above the Iowa state average of $41,634. Compared to the national median of $46,780, Des Moines pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Des Moines's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for dispatchers in Des Moines spans from $28,520 at the 10th percentile to $64,400 at the 90th percentile — a $35,880 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $30,360, while senior dispatchers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $60,720. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dispatcher Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level dispatcher earns around $30,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $60,720 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Des Moines, IA
| Percentile | Des Moines |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,040 |
| Median (50th) | $43,038 |
| 75th Percentile | $53,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $64,400 |
Dispatcher Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Dispatcher in Des Moines
Education
Most dispatcher positions require a high school diploma. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, dispatcher employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dispatcher Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open dispatcher positions in Des Moines, IA: