Average Air Traffic Controllers Salary in Colorado
Air Traffic Controllers in Colorado command an impressive average annual salary of $153,010, significantly outpacing the national average of $85,220. This substantial difference is largely attributable to the state's unique economic landscape, demand for specialized aviation services, and potentially higher operational costs associated with managing airspace in a geographically diverse region.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $153,010 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $207,130.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 780 Air Traffic Controllers and a Location Quotient of 1.85, Colorado demonstrates a robust and concentrated demand for this critical profession. The LQ value indicates that the concentration of these jobs in Colorado is 85% higher than the national average, suggesting a strong and potentially growing job market for skilled air traffic management professionals within the state.
Salary Overview
The average Air Traffic Controllers in Colorado earns+79.5%above the national average.
$73.6
$2,943
$12,751
Air Traffic Controllers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that the salaries for Air Traffic Controllers in Colorado have experienced consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing air travel demand, technological advancements requiring specialized skills, and inflation likely contribute to an upward trajectory in compensation for these vital professionals.
Air Traffic Controllers Salary Distribution in Colorado
Career progression for Air Traffic Controllers in Colorado typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. While specific percentile data is unavailable, the gap between starting salaries and the $153,010 average suggests that experienced controllers, those with advanced certifications, and those managing more complex airspace can expect substantially higher earnings, reflecting their accumulated expertise and responsibilities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $74,260 | $35.7 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $114,758 | $55.2 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $172,310 | $82.8 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $191,263 | $92 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $207,130 | $99.6 |
Detailed Air Traffic Controllers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$153,010
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$145,033
Adjusted for COL (105.5)
The average annual salary of $153,010 in Colorado presents a strong financial standing when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 105.5. While the cost of living is slightly above the national average, the significantly higher salary for Air Traffic Controllers suggests that their purchasing power and overall financial well-being are likely to be robust in the state.
Job Market Context
780
Total Jobs
0.269
Per 1K Jobs
1.85
Location Quotient
Colorado has 1.9x the national concentration of Air Traffic Controllers jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
Colorado's Location Quotient of 1.85 for Air Traffic Controllers signifies a market where this profession is significantly more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a competitive environment with a higher demand relative to the general workforce, potentially leading to better job opportunities and stronger negotiation power for qualified candidates.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Air Traffic Controllers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Springs, CO Air Traffic Controllers Salary | $120,430↓ 21% | 32 mi |
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO Air Traffic Controllers Salary | $149,960↓ 2% | 54 mi |
Comparing salaries near Colorado
Hiring Air Traffic Controllerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Air Traffic Controllers make in Colorado?
The median annual salary for a Air Traffic Controllers in Colorado is $153,010. This typically ranges from $74,260 for entry-level positions to $207,130 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Colorado is 79.5% higher than the national median of $85,220.
Is Colorado a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllerss?
Yes, Colorado is a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers.The average annual salary of $153,010 is substantially higher than the national average, and the strong Location Quotient indicates a concentrated demand for the role.
Is Colorado a good place to live for Air Traffic Controllers?
The Cost of Living Index in Colorado is 105.5. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Colorado?
Some top paying nearby cities include Colorado Springs, CO ($120,430) and Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO.
How does Colorado's Air Traffic Controller salary compare to the national average?
Air Traffic Controllers in Colorado earn an average of $153,010 annually, which is significantly higher than the national average of $85,220.
What does the Location Quotient of 1.85 mean for Air Traffic Controllers in Colorado?
A Location Quotient of 1.85 indicates that the concentration of Air Traffic Controller jobs in Colorado is 85% higher than the national average, suggesting greater demand and opportunity.
How does the cost of living in Colorado affect the Air Traffic Controller salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 105.5, Colorado is slightly more expensive than the national average, but the high average salary for Air Traffic Controllers helps to offset this, providing strong purchasing power.
What is the total number of Air Traffic Controllers in Colorado?
There are approximately 780 Air Traffic Controllers employed within the state of Colorado.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 780 employees in the Colorado area with a job density of 0.269 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Air Traffic Controllers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Colorado