SalaryNode

Average Air Traffic Controllers Salary in Illinois

Air Traffic Controllers in Illinois earn a commanding average annual salary of $156,590, significantly outpacing the national average of $85,220. This substantial difference is often dictated by the state's robust aviation infrastructure, higher operational demands, and the specialized skill set required for this critical role.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $156,590 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 9.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $221,890.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,000 Air Traffic Controllers and a Location Quotient of 1.14, Illinois demonstrates a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. This suggests a stable and potentially growing demand for skilled air traffic control services within the state, indicating a healthy job market for this specialized profession.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$156,590

The average Air Traffic Controllers in Illinois earns+83.7%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$75.3

Weekly

$3,011

Monthly

$13,049

Air Traffic Controllers Salary Distribution in Illinois

The career trajectory for Air Traffic Controllers typically involves significant salary increases with experience. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while senior controllers with extensive experience and specialized certifications can expect to earn considerably more. The percentile gaps in salary data serve as a clear indicator of this progression, highlighting the financial rewards of career advancement in this demanding field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$75,490$36.3
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$117,443$56.5
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$175,090$84.2
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$195,738$94.1
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$221,890$106.7

Detailed Air Traffic Controllers Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$156,590

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$170,577

Adjusted for COL (91.8)

The nominal average salary of $156,590 in Illinois presents a strong purchasing power, especially when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 91.8, which is below the national average of 100. This indicates that the high earnings for Air Traffic Controllers in Illinois translate into a comfortable standard of living, with their income stretching further than in many other parts of the country.

Job Market Context

1,000

Total Jobs

0.165

Per 1K Jobs

1.14

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.14, Illinois has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Air Traffic Controllers roles compared to the national norm.

An Illinois Location Quotient of 1.14 signifies that Air Traffic Controllers are more concentrated in this state than the national average. This suggests a robust market with a higher availability of jobs relative to the general workforce, potentially indicating strong demand or a specialized hub for aviation operations within Illinois.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Air Traffic Controllerss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Air Traffic Controllers make in Illinois?

The median annual salary for a Air Traffic Controllers in Illinois is $156,590. This typically ranges from $75,490 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 Illinois is 83.7% higher than the national median of $85,220.

Is Illinois a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers?

Yes, Illinois is a highly lucrative state for Air Traffic Controllers.The average annual salary of $156,590 is nearly double the national average, and the cost of living is below the national average, enhancing real earning potential.

Is Illinois a good place to live for Air Traffic Controllers?

With a Cost of Living Index of 91.8 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.

What is the average salary for an Air Traffic Controller in Illinois?

The average annual salary for an Air Traffic Controller in Illinois is $156,590.

How does the Illinois salary compare to the national average?

The average salary in Illinois is significantly higher than the national average of $85,220.

What is the cost of living in Illinois compared to the national average?

Illinois has a cost of living index of 91.8, which is lower than the national average of 100.

How concentrated are Air Traffic Controllers in Illinois?

Illinois has a Location Quotient of 1.14, indicating a slightly higher concentration of Air Traffic Controllers than the national average.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,000 employees in the Illinois area with a job density of 0.165 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.

Semantic Salary Analysis for Air Traffic Controllers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Illinois