Average Air Traffic Controllers Salary in New Jersey
Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey earn a remarkable average annual salary of $142,650, significantly outpacing the national average of $85,220. This substantial difference is often driven by the state's robust economic activity, high demand for skilled professionals in critical infrastructure roles, and the generally higher operational costs associated with major metropolitan areas and busy airspace.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $142,650 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 16.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $208,250.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 210 Air Traffic Controllers and a Location Quotient of 0.33, the job market in New Jersey indicates a concentration below the national average. While the absolute number of professionals is modest, the demand is likely sustained by the critical nature of air traffic management, suggesting a stable, albeit not rapidly expanding, employment landscape for those in this specialized field.
Salary Overview
The average Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey earns+67.4%above the national average.
$68.6
$2,743
$11,888
Air Traffic Controllers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey have experienced consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as inflation, increasing complexity of air traffic management, and the ongoing need for experienced professionals likely contribute to a steady upward trajectory in compensation within the state.
Air Traffic Controllers Salary Distribution in New Jersey
The salary progression for Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey typically sees significant increases with experience. Entry-level positions may start considerably lower than the average, while senior controllers, with extensive experience and specialized certifications, can command salaries well above the $142,650 mark. The percentile gaps in salary distribution clearly signify the career progression and increased earning potential as one advances in this demanding profession.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $82,860 | $39.8 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $106,988 | $51.4 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $135,470 | $65.1 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $178,313 | $85.7 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $208,250 | $100.1 |
Detailed Air Traffic Controllers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$142,650
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$126,913
Adjusted for COL (112.4)
While the average annual salary of $142,650 for Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey is impressive, it must be considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 112.4. This index, which is 12.4% above the national average, means that the purchasing power of the New Jersey salary is somewhat diminished compared to lower-cost states. However, the significant nominal salary advantage likely still provides a strong financial standing for controllers in the Garden State.
Job Market Context
210
Total Jobs
0.048
Per 1K Jobs
0.33
Location Quotient
At 0.33x, New Jersey has a notably lower concentration of Air Traffic Controllers jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.
The Location Quotient of 0.33 for Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey suggests that the concentration of these professionals is less than the national average. This could indicate a less competitive market in terms of job availability relative to the number of professionals, or it might reflect the specialized nature of the role and the high barriers to entry. It implies that while the absolute number of jobs might not be overwhelmingly high, the demand is consistent due to the essential services provided.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Air Traffic Controllers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ Air Traffic Controllers Salary | $162,160↑ 14% | 39 mi |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD Air Traffic Controllers Salary | $164,860↑ 16% | 42 mi |
Comparing salaries near New Jersey
Hiring Air Traffic Controllerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Air Traffic Controllers make in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for a Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey is $142,650. This typically ranges from $82,860 for entry-level positions to $208,250 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in New Jersey is 67.4% higher than the national median of $85,220.
Is New Jersey a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers?
Yes, New Jersey is a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers.The average annual salary of $142,650 is substantially higher than the national average, indicating strong earning potential. Despite a higher cost of living, the nominal salary offers significant financial benefits.
Is New Jersey a good place to live for Air Traffic Controllers?
The Cost of Living Index in New Jersey is 112.4. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near New Jersey?
Some top paying nearby cities include New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ ($162,160) and Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD.
How does the New Jersey Air Traffic Controller salary compare to the national average?
Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey earn an average of $142,650 annually, which is significantly higher than the national average of $85,220.
What is the concentration of Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey?
New Jersey has a Location Quotient of 0.33 for Air Traffic Controllers, indicating a concentration below the national average.
How does the cost of living in New Jersey affect the salary?
New Jersey's Cost of Living Index is 112.4, meaning it is 12.4% more expensive than the national average. While the high salary compensates, the increased cost of living should be factored into financial planning.
What does the number of Air Traffic Controllers in New Jersey suggest about job opportunities?
With 210 Air Traffic Controllers locally, the market is specialized. The lower Location Quotient suggests a stable demand rather than rapid expansion, typical for essential infrastructure roles.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 210 employees in the New Jersey area with a job density of 0.048 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 New Jersey