Air Traffic Controller Salary in Michigan
Based on 440+ workers in Michigan
Median Annual Salary (MI)
$61,780
$29.70/hr
vs National Average
$56,947
+8.5% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$41K – $79K
440 employed in Michigan
Air Traffic Controller salary in Michigan averages $61,780 per year, positioning the state favorably in the national landscape. With approximately 440 air traffic controllers employed throughout Michigan, this figure represents an 8% premium over the national average, reflecting the state's robust aviation infrastructure and demand for experienced professionals in this critical field.
Several factors influence Air Traffic Controller salary in Michigan, including facility complexity, years of experience, and shift differentials. Controllers working at major hubs like Detroit Metropolitan Airport typically earn toward the higher end of the $41,220 to $78,920 range, while those at smaller regional facilities may earn less. Federal employment status, overtime opportunities, and specialized certifications also play significant roles in determining individual compensation packages.
Salary Distribution — Air Traffic Controller in Michigan
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $41,220 |
| 25th percentile | $49,140 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $61,780 |
| 75th percentile | $78,920 |
| 90th percentile | $78,920 |
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 Michigan 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 Michigan vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Michigan) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $53,080 |
| 2023 | $57,650 |
| 2024 | $60,990 |
| 2025 | $61,780 |
| 2026 (projected) | $62,580 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Michigan Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $53,080 | $53,742 |
| 2023 | $57,650 | $55,720 |
| 2024 | $60,990 | $55,556 |
| 2025 | $61,780 | $56,947 |
| 2026 (projected) | $62,580 | $57,685 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by Experience Level in Michigan
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $49,140 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $61,780 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $78,920 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $78,920 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other States
Related Air Traffic Controller Salaries in Michigan
How other high-demand occupations in Michigan compare to Air Traffic Controller ($61,780 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Air Traffic Controller | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilot in MI | $428,570 | +593.7% | $206.04/hr |
| Plumber in MI | $80,190 | +29.8% | $38.55/hr |
| Construction Supervisor in MI | $78,180 | +26.5% | $37.59/hr |
| Electrician in MI | $76,270 | +23.5% | $36.67/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in MI | $54,120 | -12.4% | $26.02/hr |
| Construction Laborer in MI | $49,590 | -19.7% | $23.84/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in MI | $47,580 | -23.0% | $22.88/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in MI | $61,690 | -0.1% | $29.66/hr |
| Insurance Sales Agent in MI | $61,900 | +0.2% | $29.76/hr |
| Paralegal in MI | $62,170 | +0.6% | $29.89/hr |
| Judicial Law Clerk in MI | $62,260 | +0.8% | $29.93/hr |
| Social Worker in MI | $60,830 | -1.5% | $29.25/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do air traffic controllers make in Michigan?
- Air traffic controllers in Michigan earn a median salary of $61,780 per year, or $30 per hour. This is 8.5% higher than the national average for this position.
What is the salary range for air traffic controllers in Michigan?
- The salary range for air traffic controllers in Michigan spans from $41,220 at the lower end to $78,920 at the upper end, depending on experience and facility assignment.
Is being an air traffic controller in Michigan better paid than the national average?
- Yes, Michigan air traffic controllers earn 8.5% more than the national average, with a median salary of $61,780 compared to lower national figures.
How many air traffic controller jobs are available in Michigan?
- There are currently 440 air traffic controllers employed in Michigan, representing the total workforce in this profession across the state.