Air Traffic Controller Salary in the United States
Based on 13K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$56,947
$27.38/hr
▲ 2.5% vs 2024Salary Range
$38K – $86K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
13K
workers nationwide
The median Air Traffic Controller salary in the United States is $56,947 per year, or approximately $27 per hour. This figure represents the midpoint of earnings for these vital professionals, with a typical range falling between $38,270 and $85,581 annually, reflecting the diverse responsibilities and demands of the role.
Several factors can influence the Air Traffic Controller salary in the United States. Experience level plays a significant role, with seasoned controllers generally earning more than those just starting out. Location is another key determinant, as is the specific type of facility or airspace managed. The demand for skilled controllers in certain regions can also impact compensation, as seen in states with higher average pay.
Salary Distribution — Air Traffic Controller
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $38,270 |
| 25th percentile | $45,062 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $56,947 |
| 75th percentile | $74,014 |
| 90th percentile | $85,581 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Air Traffic Controller
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kentucky | $123,290 | +116.5% | 290 |
| 2 | Washington | $84,050 | +47.6% | 150 |
| 3 | Alabama | $78,590 | +38.0% | — |
| 4 | Arizona | $77,570 | +36.2% | 160 |
| 5 | Colorado | $77,500 | +36.1% | 70 |
| 6 | Oregon | $75,130 | +31.9% | 50 |
| 7 | Virginia | $72,250 | +26.9% | 280 |
| 8 | Alaska | $71,510 | +25.6% | 160 |
| 9 | New Mexico | $69,090 | +21.3% | 50 |
| 10 | Georgia | $66,790 | +17.3% | 340 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by Industry
How much Air Traffic Controllers earn across industries nationwide — Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services pays the most ($103,820 median). Ranked by median annual salary (2025 BLS OEWS data).
| # | Industry | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $103,820 | +82.3% | — |
| 2 | Manufacturing | $88,420 | +55.3% | 150 |
| 3 | Health Care and Social Assistance | $70,590 | +24.0% | 160 |
| 4 | Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $60,850 | +6.9% | 4K |
| 5 | Transportation and Warehousing | $49,820 | -12.5% | 10K |
| 6 | Administrative and Support Services | $45,750 | -19.7% | 130 |
| 7 | Educational Services | $44,290 | -22.2% | 270 |
| 8 | Wholesale Trade | $37,780 | -33.7% | — |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures.
Historical Salary Trend — Air Traffic Controller
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $53,742 |
| 2023 | $55,720 |
| 2024 | $55,556 |
| 2025 | $56,947 |
| 2026 (projected) | $58,373 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
Air Traffic Controller Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $45,062 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $56,947 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $74,014 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $85,581 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average annual salary for an Air Traffic Controller in the US?
- The median annual salary for an Air Traffic Controller in the United States is $56,947. This means half of all Air Traffic Controllers earn more than this amount, and half earn less, with the salary range typically between $38,270 and $85,581.
Which state pays Air Traffic Controllers the most?
- Currently, Kentucky is the top-paying state for Air Traffic Controllers, with an impressive average salary of $123,290 per year. This significantly exceeds the national median of $56,947.
How much can an entry-level Air Traffic Controller expect to earn?
- For entry-level Air Traffic Controllers, salaries often fall at the lower end of the pay scale, potentially starting around $38,270 annually. As experience is gained, this can increase substantially towards the median of $56,947 and beyond.
Is there a significant difference between the highest and lowest Air Traffic Controller salaries?
- Yes, there is a notable difference. The highest reported salaries can reach up to $85,581 annually, while the lowest end of the spectrum begins around $38,270. This wide range highlights the impact of experience and location on earnings.