Public Service Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Dispatcher Salary in Virginia

The median dispatcher salary in Virginia is $48,651 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $46,780.

Median Salary
$48,651
vs National
+$1,871
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Dispatcher Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)

Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for dispatcher compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for dispatcher pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $48,651 per year, dispatchers in Virginia earn $1,871 more than the national median of $46,780.

Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning dispatcher salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Virginia is significant: dispatchers at the 10th percentile earn $32,240, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $72,800 — a $40,560 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Virginia for this role is Arlington, where the median reaches $61,750.

Nationally, dispatcher employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for dispatchers across the country.

Dispatcher Salary in Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level dispatcher earns around $34,320, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,640 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$34,320
+$1,320 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,920
+$1,920 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$68,640
+$2,640 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $32,240
25th Percentile $38,480
Median (50th) $48,651
75th Percentile $60,320
90th Percentile $72,800

Dispatcher Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for dispatchers in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dispatcher in Virginia

Education

Most dispatcher positions require a high school diploma. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Radio CommunicationCAD SystemsMulti-taskingStress ManagementGeographyTyping

Job Outlook in Virginia

Nationally, dispatcher employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Dispatcher Salary in Virginia

How much does a Dispatcher make in Virginia? ▼
The median dispatcher salary in Virginia is $48,651 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $46,780. Salaries range from $32,240 (10th percentile) to $72,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dispatcher make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $48,651, a dispatcher in Virginia earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for dispatchers? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for dispatcher pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level dispatchers earn $34,320, while senior professionals earn $68,640.
How does Virginia compare to other states for dispatcher salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dispatchers is Hawaii at $79,526. Virginia's median of $48,651 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Hampshire ($49,119) and Rhode Island ($49,119).
What is the entry-level dispatcher salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level dispatcher in Virginia earns approximately $34,320 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $49,920. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $68,640.
What city in Virginia pays dispatchers the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for dispatchers, with a median salary of $61,750. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.