Average Air Traffic Controllers Salary in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA
Air Traffic Controllers in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA area earn a substantial average annual salary of $157,810. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $85,220, reflecting the region's robust economic activity and the critical nature of air traffic management. The higher compensation is often attributed to the demanding responsibilities and the specialized skill set required to ensure aviation safety in a busy metropolitan airspace.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $157,810 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $213,100.
- Outlook: The local job market for Air Traffic Controllers in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, appears robust, with a total workforce of 500 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.67 indicates a concentration of these professionals that is 67% higher than the national average, suggesting strong local demand and a significant presence of aviation-related industries that rely on skilled air traffic management.
Salary Overview
The average Air Traffic Controllers in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA earns+85.2%above the national average.
$75.9
$3,035
$13,151
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 Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, have experienced consistent growth over the past four years. This trend is generally driven by increasing operational complexity, inflation, and the ongoing need for experienced professionals to manage air traffic safely and efficiently, aligning with national trends in specialized technical roles.
Air Traffic Controllers Salary Distribution in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA
Career progression for Air Traffic Controllers typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. As controllers gain experience, refine their skills, and take on more complex sectors or supervisory roles, their earning potential expands considerably. The percentile gaps in salary distribution, from the lower end for trainees to the higher end for seasoned veterans, clearly signify this career trajectory and the value placed on accumulated expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $84,120 | $40.4 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $118,358 | $56.9 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $169,350 | $81.4 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $197,263 | $94.8 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $213,100 | $102.5 |
Detailed Air Traffic Controllers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$157,810
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$157,810
Adjusted for COL (100)
With an average annual salary of $157,810 and a Cost of Living Index at the national average of 100, Air Traffic Controllers in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, enjoy a strong purchasing power. The nominal salary translates directly into real economic benefit, as their earnings are not diminished by a higher cost of living compared to the rest of the country, making the region financially attractive for these professionals.
Job Market Context
500
Total Jobs
0.242
Per 1K Jobs
1.67
Location Quotient
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA has 1.7x 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.
The Location Quotient of 1.67 for Air Traffic Controllers in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, signifies a market that is considerably more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a higher demand for these specialized professionals relative to the general workforce, potentially leading to more competitive hiring environments and greater opportunities for career advancement within the region's aviation sector.
Nearby Job Markets
Hiring Air Traffic Controllerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Air Traffic Controllers make in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA?
The median annual salary for a Air Traffic Controllers in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA is $157,810. This typically ranges from $84,120 for entry-level positions to $213,100 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA is 85.2% higher than the national median of $85,220.
Is Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers?
Yes, it is a highly lucrative location for Air Traffic Controllers.The average salary of $157,810 is nearly double the national average, and the Cost of Living Index is at the national average, indicating excellent earning potential and purchasing power.
Is Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA a good place to live for Air Traffic Controllers?
The Cost of Living Index in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
How does the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for Air Traffic Controllers in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, is $157,810, which is significantly higher than the national average of $85,220.
What is the concentration of Air Traffic Controllers in this region?
The region has a Location Quotient of 1.67, meaning it has 67% more Air Traffic Controllers than the national average, indicating a strong local presence and demand for the profession.
Does the cost of living affect the salary in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA?
No, the Cost of Living Index is exactly at the national average (100), so the high salary of $157,810 offers strong purchasing power without being offset by higher living expenses.
How many Air Traffic Controllers work in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA area?
There are approximately 500 Air Traffic Controllers employed within the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA 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 500 employees in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA area with a job density of 0.242 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 Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA