Average Commercial Pilots Salary in U.S.
Commercial Pilots in the U.S. earn an average annual salary of $144,150. This figure precisely matches the national average, indicating that compensation in this region is aligned with broader industry trends. Factors such as the robust aviation infrastructure and demand for skilled pilots within the U.S. likely contribute to this parity.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $144,150 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 84.6% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $216,225.
- Outlook: With a substantial local workforce of 50,470 Commercial Pilots, the U.S. presents a significant hub for this profession. While a specific Location Quotient is not provided, the sheer volume of professionals suggests a mature and active job market. This large concentration implies a steady demand for experienced pilots and potentially numerous opportunities for career advancement within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Commercial Pilots in U.S. earns-0.0%below the national average.
$69.3
$2,772
$12,013
Commercial Pilots Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for the U.S. is not detailed here, the Commercial Pilot profession nationally has generally seen consistent salary growth over the past four years. This upward trend is driven by increasing demand for air travel, pilot retirements, and the ongoing need for highly trained aviation professionals. It is reasonable to assume that the U.S. market has mirrored these positive national trends, offering competitive compensation packages.
Commercial Pilots Salary Distribution in U.S.
The salary trajectory for Commercial Pilots in the U.S. typically scales significantly with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, but as pilots accumulate flight hours, certifications, and seniority, their earning potential increases substantially. The gap between entry-level and senior pilot salaries, often represented by different salary percentiles, clearly signifies the career progression and increased responsibility associated with more experienced roles.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $59,530 | $28.6 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $108,113 | $52 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $123,480 | $59.4 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $180,188 | $86.6 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $216,225 | $104 |
Detailed Commercial Pilots Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$144,150
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$144,150
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $144,150 in the U.S. for Commercial Pilots is perfectly balanced by the local Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a pilot's salary in this region is exactly in line with the national average. Therefore, relocating to the U.S. as a Commercial Pilot would not present any immediate financial advantage or disadvantage from a cost-of-living perspective compared to the national median.
Job Market Context
50,470
Total Jobs
N/A
Per 1K Jobs
N/A
Location Quotient
The absence of a specific Location Quotient (LQ) for Commercial Pilots in the U.S. makes it challenging to definitively assess market concentration relative to the national average. However, the presence of a large workforce of 50,470 suggests that the market is well-established and likely competitive. This indicates a healthy supply of pilots, which could mean a balanced demand-supply dynamic for employers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Commercial Pilots
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Tulsa, OK Commercial Pilots Salary | $128,480↓ 11% | 67 mi |
| Wichita, KS Commercial Pilots Salary | $114,190↓ 21% | 99 mi |
Comparing salaries near U.S.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Commercial Pilots make in U.S.?
The median annual salary for a Commercial Pilots in U.S. is $144,150. This typically ranges from $59,530 for entry-level positions to $216,225 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 $144,150.
Is U.S. a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots?
Yes, the U.S. offers a lucrative environment for Commercial Pilots.The average salary of $144,150 is precisely at the national average, and the cost of living is also at the national average, indicating strong earning potential without increased expenses.
Is U.S. a good place to live for Commercial Pilots?
The Cost of Living Index in U.S. is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near U.S.?
Some top paying nearby cities include Tulsa, OK ($128,480) and Wichita, KS.
What is the average salary for a Commercial Pilot in the U.S.?
The average annual salary for a Commercial Pilot in the U.S. is $144,150.
How does the cost of living in U.S. compare to the national average?
The cost of living in the U.S. is exactly at the national average, with an index of 100.
How large is the Commercial Pilot workforce in U.S.?
The total local workforce for Commercial Pilots in the U.S. is 50,470 professionals.
Does experience significantly impact a Commercial Pilot's salary in U.S.?
Yes, experience is a major factor; senior pilots with extensive flight hours and certifications earn considerably more than entry-level pilots, reflecting career progression and increased responsibility.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 50,470 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 Commercial Pilots • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in U.S.