Average Air Traffic Controllers Salary in U.S.
Air Traffic Controllers in U.S. earn an average annual salary of $85,220. This figure aligns precisely with the national average, indicating a stable compensation landscape across the country for this critical role. Factors such as the specific operational demands of U.S. airspace and the established pay scales for federal aviation professionals likely contribute to this national parity.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $85,220 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.6% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $110,180.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 2,170 Air Traffic Controllers, U.S. presents a significant hub for this profession. While a specific Location Quotient is not provided, the substantial workforce size suggests a consistent demand for skilled controllers to manage the volume of air traffic within the region. This indicates a robust and active job market for experienced professionals.
Salary Overview
The average Air Traffic Controllers in U.S. earns-0.0%below the national average.
$41
$1,639
$7,102
Air Traffic Controllers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past four years, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Air Traffic Controllers in U.S. have experienced steady growth, mirroring national trends. Increased demand for air travel, coupled with the specialized training and responsibilities inherent in the role, typically drives incremental salary increases year over year, ensuring compensation remains competitive.
Air Traffic Controllers Salary Distribution in U.S.
The career path for Air Traffic Controllers in U.S. offers clear salary progression. Entry-level positions typically start at a lower percentile of the salary range, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and advanced certifications can command salaries in the upper percentiles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior salaries signifies substantial opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $46,800 | $22.5 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $63,915 | $30.7 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $81,600 | $39.2 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $106,525 | $51.2 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $110,180 | $53 |
Detailed Air Traffic Controllers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$85,220
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$85,220
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $85,220 in U.S. is perfectly balanced with the local Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of an Air Traffic Controller's salary in U.S. is equivalent to the national average. Consequently, relocating to U.S. for this profession offers financial stability without the immediate pressure of a higher or lower cost of living impacting disposable income.
Job Market Context
2,170
Total Jobs
N/A
Per 1K Jobs
N/A
Location Quotient
The absence of a specific Location Quotient (LQ) for Air Traffic Controllers in U.S. suggests that the concentration of these professionals is at the national average. This implies a balanced job market where the number of available positions likely corresponds well with the number of qualified candidates, indicating neither an oversupply nor a significant shortage.
Nearby Job Markets
Hiring Air Traffic Controllerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Air Traffic Controllers make in U.S.?
The median annual salary for a Air Traffic Controllers in U.S. is $85,220. This typically ranges from $46,800 for entry-level positions to $110,180 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in U.S. is 0.0% lower than the national median of $85,220.
Is U.S. a lucrative place for Air Traffic Controllers?
Yes, U.S. offers a lucrative and stable environment for Air Traffic Controllers.The average salary of $85,220 aligns with the national average, and the cost of living is also at the national benchmark, providing excellent financial equilibrium.
Is U.S. a good place to live for Air Traffic Controllers?
The Cost of Living Index in U.S. is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
What is the average salary for an Air Traffic Controller in U.S.?
The average annual salary for an Air Traffic Controller in U.S. is $85,220.
How does the U.S. salary compare to the national average?
The average salary in U.S. for Air Traffic Controllers is exactly the same as the national average, indicating consistent compensation across the country.
What is the cost of living in U.S. relative to the national average?
The cost of living index in U.S. is 100, which is precisely the national average, meaning your salary will have average purchasing power.
How many Air Traffic Controllers work in U.S.?
There are approximately 2,170 Air Traffic Controllers employed in the U.S. region.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 2,170 employees in the U.S. area with a job density of 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 U.S.