Air Traffic Controller Salary in Iowa
Based on 40+ workers in Iowa
Median Annual Salary (IA)
$48,870
$23.50/hr
vs National Average
$56,947
-14.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$18K – $63K
40 employed in Iowa
Air Traffic Controller salary in Iowa averages $48,870 per year, according to current employment data. This median reflects compensation for approximately 40 workers currently employed in this specialized field across the state. However, Iowa's air traffic controller salaries run about 14% below the national average, a notable difference for professionals in this critical aviation role.
Several factors influence Air Traffic Controller salary in Iowa, including facility type, experience level, and shift responsibilities. Controllers working at larger regional airports or those managing complex airspace typically earn toward the higher end of the $18,320 to $62,810 range. Years of experience, certifications, and the volume of air traffic handled at specific facilities also play significant roles in determining individual compensation packages within the state.
Salary Distribution — Air Traffic Controller in Iowa
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $18,320 |
| 25th percentile | $37,080 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $48,870 |
| 75th percentile | $61,360 |
| 90th percentile | $62,810 |
Top-Paying Industries for Air Traffic Controller (U.S.)
Which industries pay Air Traffic Controllers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Air Traffic Controllers in Iowa tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $103,820 | — |
| Manufacturing | $88,420 | 150 |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $70,590 | 160 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $60,850 | 4K |
| Transportation and Warehousing | $49,820 | 10K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Air Traffic Controller in Iowa vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Iowa) |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $47,990 |
| 2025 | $48,870 |
| 2026 (projected) | $49,766 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Iowa Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $47,990 | $55,556 |
| 2025 | $48,870 | $56,947 |
| 2026 (projected) | $49,766 | $57,991 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by Experience Level in Iowa
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $37,080 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $48,870 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $61,360 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $62,810 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other States
Related Air Traffic Controller Salaries in Iowa
How other high-demand occupations in Iowa compare to Air Traffic Controller ($48,870 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Air Traffic Controller | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilot in IA | $131,730 | +169.6% | $63.33/hr |
| Construction Supervisor in IA | $78,510 | +60.7% | $37.75/hr |
| Plumber in IA | $63,890 | +30.7% | $30.72/hr |
| Electrician in IA | $60,860 | +24.5% | $29.26/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in IA | $52,160 | +6.7% | $25.08/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in IA | $50,510 | +3.4% | $24.28/hr |
| Construction Laborer in IA | $48,490 | -0.8% | $23.31/hr |
| Data Analyst in IA | $49,020 | +0.3% | $23.57/hr |
| Social Worker in IA | $48,530 | -0.7% | $23.33/hr |
| Dental Assistant in IA | $48,430 | -0.9% | $23.28/hr |
| Bookkeeper in IA | $48,180 | -1.4% | $23.16/hr |
| Real Estate Broker in IA | $50,140 | +2.6% | $24.11/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do air traffic controllers make in Iowa?
- The median salary for air traffic controllers in Iowa is $48,870 per year, or approximately $23 per hour. This is about 14.2% lower than the national average for this position.
What is the salary range for air traffic controllers in Iowa?
- Air traffic controllers in Iowa earn between $18,320 and $62,810 annually, depending on experience, location, and facility type. The median falls at $48,870, indicating significant variation across the profession.
Is the air traffic controller salary in Iowa below the national average?
- Yes, Iowa's median air traffic controller salary of $48,870 is 14.2% below the national average. However, entry-level positions start at $18,320, while experienced controllers can earn up to $62,810.
How many air traffic controllers work in Iowa?
- There are currently 40 air traffic controllers employed in Iowa, representing a relatively small workforce in the state for this specialized profession.