Air Traffic Controller Salary.
Across 30 U.S. cities.
$128,000
national median salary
$92,000 to $172,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$173,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$133,000
Los Angeles, CA
Lowest Paying
$112,000
Detroit, MI
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Air Traffic Controller salary in the United States is $128,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $92,000 at the 25th percentile to $172,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $173,000, while Los Angeles offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Facility level is the dominant factor, with controllers at high-traffic terminals and en-route centers earning significantly more than those at smaller towers.
Air Traffic Controller salary by city
What you should know
Facility level is the dominant factor, with controllers at high-traffic terminals and en-route centers earning significantly more than those at smaller towers. Geographic locality pay adjustments and overtime availability also create meaningful variance across positions.
Trainees at the FAA Academy earn $40,000 to $55,000. Certified professional controllers at lower-level facilities make $92,000 to $110,000. Moving to a high-level facility pushes pay to $140,000 to $172,000, with supervisory roles reaching $180,000 or more.
Federal controllers receive FERS retirement, Thrift Savings Plan matching up to 5%, and locality-adjusted pay. Premium pay for night shifts, holidays, and overtime can add 10 to 25% above base salary.