Air Traffic Controller Salary in Massachusetts
Based on 380+ workers in Massachusetts
Median Annual Salary (MA)
$56,020
$26.93/hr
vs National Average
$56,947
-1.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$46K – $78K
380 employed in Massachusetts
Air Traffic Controller salary in Massachusetts averages $56,020 per year, which is 2% below the national average. The state currently employs 380 air traffic controllers across various facilities. While this median falls slightly short of national figures, it still represents a solid middle-class income for professionals in this critical field.
Several factors influence Air Traffic Controller salary in Massachusetts, including facility type, years of experience, and shift differentials. Controllers working at major hubs like Boston Logan International typically earn higher wages than those at smaller regional airports. Additionally, federal pay scales, cost of living adjustments, and overtime opportunities all contribute to salary variations within the state.
Salary Distribution — Air Traffic Controller in Massachusetts
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $45,610 |
| 25th percentile | $50,770 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $56,020 |
| 75th percentile | $64,750 |
| 90th percentile | $78,250 |
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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Massachusetts) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $56,020 |
| 2026 (projected) | $57,701 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Massachusetts Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $56,020 | $56,947 |
| 2026 (projected) | $57,701 | $58,655 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by Experience Level in Massachusetts
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $50,770 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $56,020 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $64,750 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $78,250 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other States
Related Air Traffic Controller Salaries in Massachusetts
How other high-demand occupations in Massachusetts compare to Air Traffic Controller ($56,020 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Air Traffic Controller | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction Supervisor in MA | $97,850 | +74.7% | $47.04/hr |
| Plumber in MA | $93,880 | +67.6% | $45.13/hr |
| Electrician in MA | $79,420 | +41.8% | $38.18/hr |
| Construction Laborer in MA | $63,390 | +13.2% | $30.48/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in MA | $60,760 | +8.5% | $29.21/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in MA | $58,320 | +4.1% | $28.04/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in MA | $57,940 | +3.4% | $27.86/hr |
| Dental Assistant in MA | $57,980 | +3.5% | $27.88/hr |
| Bookkeeper in MA | $59,830 | +6.8% | $28.76/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in MA | $59,890 | +6.9% | $28.79/hr |
| Social Worker in MA | $62,500 | +11.6% | $30.05/hr |
| Medical Assistant in MA | $49,460 | -11.7% | $23.78/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do air traffic controllers make in Massachusetts?
- The median salary for air traffic controllers in Massachusetts is $56,020 per year, or $27 per hour. This is slightly below the national average at 1.6% less than what air traffic controllers earn nationwide.
What is the salary range for air traffic controllers in Massachusetts?
- Air traffic controller salaries in Massachusetts range from $45,610 at the lower end to $78,250 at the higher end, depending on experience and facility level.
How many air traffic controllers work in Massachusetts?
- There are currently 380 air traffic controllers employed in Massachusetts, representing the total workforce in this field across the state.
Is the air traffic controller salary in Massachusetts competitive compared to the national average?
- Massachusetts air traffic controller salaries are slightly below the national average, with the state's median of $56,020 annually running 1.6% lower than the national median. However, the upper salary range of $78,250 offers competitive compensation for experienced controllers.