Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance Salary in Chicago, IL-IN
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN
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In Chicago and its surrounding areas in Illinois and Indiana, dispatchers—excluding those for police, fire, and ambulance services—earn a median annual salary of $64,250, which equates to approximately $30.89 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national median annual salary for the same occupation, which stands at $48,880, indicating that these workers earn significantly more in this metropolitan region. When compared to the area's median household income of $88,850, dispatchers' earnings represent a substantial portion but still fall short of the average household income, suggesting that while well-compensated relative to national standards, they may not fully meet or exceed local household financial benchmarks.
Entry-level dispatchers in this region earn around $42,440 annually, which is near the 10th percentile, indicating that these workers are at the lower end of the pay scale. In contrast, experienced dispatchers who reach the higher echelons of their career can expect to earn up to approximately $74,810, aligning with the 75th percentile mark. The disparity between entry-level and seasoned professionals is driven by several factors including experience, proficiency in using advanced communication technologies, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously under pressure. Additional influences on salary include the size of the employer, specific industry demands, and regional economic conditions, all contributing to the wide range observed within this occupation's earning potential.
Salary percentile breakdown
Chicago economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance make per hour in Chicago?
The median hourly wage for Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance in Chicago, IL-IN is $30.89, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $39.71 or more per hour.
Is Chicago above or below average for Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salaries?
The median Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 31.4% above the national median of $48,880. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance in Chicago?
Entry-level Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance (10th percentile) earn around $42,440 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $51,840.