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Average Air Traffic Controllers Salary in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO

Air Traffic Controllers in the Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO metropolitan area earn a substantial average annual salary of $149,960. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $85,220, indicating a strong demand and specialized skill set valued within this region. The higher compensation is likely driven by the critical nature of managing air traffic in a busy hub and potentially higher operational costs associated with a major metropolitan area.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $149,960 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 local job market for Air Traffic Controllers in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO appears robust, supported by a dedicated workforce of 310 professionals. A Location Quotient of 1.31 suggests that this area employs a higher concentration of these specialists than the national average, pointing to consistent demand and a stable employment landscape for qualified individuals.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$149,960

The average Air Traffic Controllers in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO earns+76.0%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$72.1

Weekly

$2,884

Monthly

$12,497

Air Traffic Controllers Salary Distribution in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO

Career progression for Air Traffic Controllers typically involves a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions will command lower salaries, while senior controllers with extensive experience and specialized certifications can expect to earn considerably more, potentially reaching into the upper percentiles of the salary range. The gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies a clear path for career advancement and increased earning potential.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$74,160$35.7
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$112,470$54.1
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$172,490$82.9
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$187,450$90.1
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$221,890$106.7

Detailed Air Traffic Controllers Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$149,960

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$149,960

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $149,960 for Air Traffic Controllers in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of an Air Traffic Controller's salary in this area is equivalent to the national average, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without the added financial strain often associated with higher-than-average living expenses.

Job Market Context

310

Total Jobs

0.19

Per 1K Jobs

1.31

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.31, Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Air Traffic Controllers roles compared to the national norm.

With a Location Quotient of 1.31, Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO demonstrates a concentration of Air Traffic Controllers that is 31% higher than the national average. This indicates a more competitive job market for employers seeking talent, but also suggests a more abundant pool of opportunities for individuals in this profession compared to less concentrated regions. It signifies that Denver is a key location for air traffic control services.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Air Traffic Controllerss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Air Traffic Controllers make in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO?

The median annual salary for a Air Traffic Controllers in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO is $149,960. This typically ranges from $74,160 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 Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO is 76.0% higher than the national median of $85,220.

Is Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers?

Yes, Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO is a highly lucrative location for Air Traffic Controllers.The average salary of $149,960 is significantly above the national average, and the cost of living is at the national average, maximizing earning potential.

Is Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO a good place to live for Air Traffic Controllers?

The Cost of Living Index in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

How does the Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO salary compare to the national average for Air Traffic Controllers?

The average salary in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO is $149,960, which is substantially higher than the national average of $85,220.

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

An LQ of 1.31 means that Air Traffic Controllers are 31% more concentrated in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO than the national average, indicating strong regional demand for these professionals.

Does the cost of living in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO affect the value of the Air Traffic Controller salary?

No, the cost of living in Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO is exactly at the national average (100), meaning the high salary translates directly to strong purchasing power.

How many Air Traffic Controllers work in the Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO area?

There are approximately 310 Air Traffic Controllers employed within the Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO 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 310 employees in the Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO area with a job density of 0.19 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.