Average Commercial Pilots Salary in Alabama
Commercial Pilots in Alabama earn an average annual salary of $104,420, which is notably below the national average of $144,150. This disparity can be attributed to a combination of factors including the specific economic landscape of Alabama and potentially a different demand-supply dynamic compared to national hubs. The state's unique aviation industry structure and regional economic drivers play a crucial role in shaping pilot compensation.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $104,420 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 9.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $138,380.
- Outlook: Alabama's commercial pilot job market shows a moderate level of concentration, with a Location Quotient of 1.62, indicating a presence roughly 62% higher than the national average. While the total local workforce of 1,140 pilots isn't massive, this concentration suggests a dedicated sector for aviation professionals. The rate of 0.545 jobs per 1,000 workers points to a steady, albeit not explosive, demand for these skilled individuals within the state.
Salary Overview
The average Commercial Pilots in Alabama earns-27.6%below the national average.
$50.2
$2,008
$8,702
Commercial Pilots Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Alabama's commercial pilot salaries over the last four years is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend mirroring national patterns. Economic recovery, increased air travel demand, and evolving industry standards typically contribute to salary growth for skilled aviation professionals. Therefore, commercial pilots in Alabama have likely seen their earning potential increase over the past four years, reflecting broader market forces.
Commercial Pilots Salary Distribution in Alabama
The salary progression for Commercial Pilots in Alabama, like elsewhere, is significantly influenced by experience. Entry-level positions typically command salaries at the lower end of the spectrum, while seasoned pilots with extensive flight hours and advanced certifications can earn considerably more. The percentile gaps in compensation clearly signify career progression, with senior pilots often reaching the upper echelons of the salary range, reflecting their accumulated expertise and responsibilities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $50,700 | $24.4 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $78,315 | $37.7 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $106,840 | $51.4 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $130,525 | $62.8 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $138,380 | $66.5 |
Detailed Commercial Pilots Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$104,420
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$118,524
Adjusted for COL (88.1)
The nominal average salary of $104,420 for Commercial Pilots in Alabama presents a compelling financial picture when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 88.1. Since the national average index is 100, Alabama offers a cost of living that is approximately 11.9% lower than the national average. This means that the $104,420 earned by pilots in Alabama likely has greater purchasing power locally than a higher salary might in a more expensive state, making the effective financial benefit of the salary more substantial.
Job Market Context
1,140
Total Jobs
0.545
Per 1K Jobs
1.62
Location Quotient
Alabama has 1.6x the national concentration of Commercial Pilots jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
With a Location Quotient of 1.62, Alabama's market for Commercial Pilots is more concentrated than the national average. This suggests that the demand for pilots relative to the general workforce is higher in Alabama than in many other states. While this indicates a potentially robust sector for aviation careers, it also implies a competitive environment where pilot skills are valued and sought after, potentially leading to more specialized opportunities within the state's aviation industry.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Commercial Pilots
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Montgomery, AL Commercial Pilots Salary | $89,400↓ 14% | 44 mi |
| Birmingham, AL Commercial Pilots Salary | $114,770↑ 10% | 50 mi |
| Tuscaloosa, AL Commercial Pilots Salary | $69,350↓ 34% | 52 mi |
Comparing salaries near Alabama
Hiring Commercial Pilotss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Commercial Pilots make in Alabama?
The median annual salary for a Commercial Pilots in Alabama is $104,420. This typically ranges from $50,700 for entry-level positions to $138,380 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Alabama is 27.6% lower than the national median of $144,150.
Is Alabama a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots?
Yes, with caveats.Alabama offers a lower cost of living, making the $104,420 average salary more impactful. The higher-than-average concentration of pilots (LQ 1.62) indicates a dedicated market, though the nominal salary is below the national average.
Is Alabama a good place to live for Commercial Pilots?
With a Cost of Living Index of 88.1 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Alabama?
Some top paying nearby cities include Montgomery, AL ($89,400) and Birmingham, AL.
How does Alabama's pilot salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Commercial Pilots in Alabama is $104,420, which is significantly lower than the national average of $144,150.
What is the concentration of Commercial Pilots in Alabama?
Alabama has a higher concentration of Commercial Pilots than the national average, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.62.
How does the cost of living affect a pilot's salary in Alabama?
With a Cost of Living Index of 88.1, Alabama is cheaper than the national average (100). This means the $104,420 salary offers greater purchasing power locally compared to a similar salary in a high-cost state.
What does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers suggest for pilots in Alabama?
The figure of 0.545 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a steady, consistent demand for Commercial Pilots within Alabama's workforce, rather than a rapidly expanding market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,140 employees in the Alabama area with a job density of 0.545 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Commercial Pilots • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Alabama