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Average Air Traffic Controllers Salary in North Carolina

Air Traffic Controllers in North Carolina command an impressive average annual salary of $130,610, significantly surpassing the national average of $85,220. This substantial difference is often attributed to a combination of factors including specialized training requirements, the critical nature of the role, and potentially regional demand dynamics within the state's aviation infrastructure.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $130,610 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 19.3% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $186,310.
  • Outlook: With a total local workforce of 440 Air Traffic Controllers and a Location Quotient of 0.62, North Carolina presents a market with a slightly lower concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. While not a hub of intense concentration, the existing workforce suggests a stable demand for skilled air traffic management professionals within the state's operational airspace.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$130,610

The average Air Traffic Controllers in North Carolina earns+53.3%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$62.8

Weekly

$2,512

Monthly

$10,884

Air Traffic Controllers Salary Distribution in North Carolina

The career trajectory for Air Traffic Controllers typically involves significant salary progression based on experience and certification levels. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and advanced qualifications can expect to earn substantially more, with higher percentile gaps reflecting mastery and responsibility.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$85,650$41.2
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$97,958$47.1
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$120,580$58
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$163,263$78.5
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$186,310$89.6

Detailed Air Traffic Controllers Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$130,610

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$137,629

Adjusted for COL (94.9)

The average annual salary of $130,610 in North Carolina offers considerable purchasing power, especially when contrasted with the local Cost of Living Index of 94.9, which is slightly below the national average of 100. This indicates that the high earnings for Air Traffic Controllers in the state translate into a favorable real income, allowing for a comfortable standard of living.

Job Market Context

440

Total Jobs

0.09

Per 1K Jobs

0.62

Location Quotient

Below Average

North Carolina has 0.62x the national average concentration of Air Traffic Controllers jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

A Location Quotient of 0.62 suggests that Air Traffic Controllers are less concentrated in North Carolina relative to the nation as a whole. This could imply a market that is not saturated, potentially offering good opportunities for skilled professionals, though it also indicates that the overall number of jobs may be proportionally smaller than in more concentrated regions.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Air Traffic Controllerss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Air Traffic Controllers make in North Carolina?

The median annual salary for a Air Traffic Controllers in North Carolina is $130,610. This typically ranges from $85,650 for entry-level positions to $186,310 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in North Carolina is 53.3% higher than the national median of $85,220.

Is North Carolina a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers?

Yes, North Carolina is a lucrative state for Air Traffic Controllers.The average salary of $130,610 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is slightly below the national benchmark, enhancing real income.

Is North Carolina a good place to live for Air Traffic Controllers?

With a Cost of Living Index of 94.9 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.

How does North Carolina's Air Traffic Controller salary compare to the national average?

Air Traffic Controllers in North Carolina earn an average of $130,610 annually, which is substantially higher than the national average of $85,220.

What is the concentration of Air Traffic Controllers in North Carolina?

The concentration, measured by the Location Quotient, is 0.62, indicating a lower presence of Air Traffic Controllers in North Carolina compared to the national average.

How does the cost of living in North Carolina affect the salary?

With a Cost of Living Index of 94.9, North Carolina is slightly more affordable than the national average, making the high salary of $130,610 particularly advantageous for residents.

What does the job market look like for Air Traffic Controllers in North Carolina?

The market has a workforce of 440, and while the concentration is below the national average, the stable presence suggests ongoing demand for these essential professionals.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 440 employees in the North Carolina area with a job density of 0.09 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.