SalaryNode

Average Air Traffic Controllers Salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN

Air Traffic Controllers in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN metropolitan area command a significantly higher average annual salary of $168,380, more than double the national average of $85,220. This substantial pay differential is largely attributed to the region's status as a major aviation hub, necessitating a highly skilled and compensated workforce to manage complex air traffic operations.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $168,380 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $221,890.
  • Outlook: The Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area demonstrates a robust job market for Air Traffic Controllers, evidenced by its Location Quotient of 1.29, indicating a higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. With a local workforce of 840, the demand appears stable and well-established, suggesting a healthy environment for both current and prospective controllers.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$168,380

The average Air Traffic Controllers in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN earns+97.6%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$81

Weekly

$3,238

Monthly

$14,032

Air Traffic Controllers Salary Distribution in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN

Salary progression for Air Traffic Controllers typically scales significantly with experience. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while senior controllers with extensive experience and specialized certifications can expect to earn substantially more. The percentile gaps in salary data, though not explicitly detailed here, would signify this career trajectory, with higher percentiles representing seasoned professionals.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$78,140$37.6
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$126,285$60.7
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$184,930$88.9
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$210,475$101.2
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$221,890$106.7

Detailed Air Traffic Controllers Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$168,380

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$168,380

Adjusted for COL (100)

The nominal average salary of $168,380 in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN is particularly attractive given the local Cost of Living Index is exactly at the national average of 100. This means that the high earnings translate directly into strong purchasing power, allowing controllers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the added financial strain often associated with high-paying jobs in more expensive regions.

Job Market Context

840

Total Jobs

0.187

Per 1K Jobs

1.29

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.29, Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Air Traffic Controllers roles compared to the national norm.

With a Location Quotient of 1.29, the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area exhibits a concentration of Air Traffic Controllers that is 29% higher than the national average. This suggests a competitive yet established market, where employers actively seek skilled professionals. The presence of a significant local workforce of 840 indicates a mature and active job market for this specialized role.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Air Traffic Controllerss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Air Traffic Controllers make in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN?

The median annual salary for a Air Traffic Controllers in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN is $168,380. This typically ranges from $78,140 for entry-level positions to $221,890 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN is 97.6% higher than the national median of $85,220.

Is Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers?

Yes, it is a highly lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers.The average salary of $168,380 is significantly above the national average, and the cost of living is on par with the national average, maximizing earning potential.

Is Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN a good place to live for Air Traffic Controllers?

The Cost of Living Index in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

How does the Chicago Air Traffic Controller salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for Air Traffic Controllers in Chicago is $168,380, which is nearly double the national average of $85,220.

What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for Air Traffic Controllers in Chicago?

An LQ of 1.29 means that Air Traffic Controllers are 29% more concentrated in the Chicago area than the national average, indicating a strong local demand and presence of these professionals.

Does the cost of living in Chicago impact the value of the Air Traffic Controller salary?

No, the cost of living in Chicago is at the national average (100), meaning the high salary of $168,380 offers excellent purchasing power for residents.

How many Air Traffic Controllers are employed in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area?

There are approximately 840 Air Traffic Controllers employed within the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metropolitan area.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 840 employees in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN area with a job density of 0.187 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.

Top Jobs in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN

Semantic Salary Analysis for Air Traffic Controllers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN