Air Traffic Controller Salary in Texas
Based on 1K+ workers in Texas
Median Annual Salary (TX)
$60,910
$29.28/hr
vs National Average
$56,947
+7.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$40K – $148K
1K employed in Texas
The average Air Traffic Controller salary in Texas is approximately $60,910 per year, placing it 7% above the national average. With 1,310 individuals employed in this critical role across the state, Texas offers a competitive landscape for air traffic control professionals, with salaries ranging from $39,680 to $148,060 annually.
Several factors contribute to the variation in Air Traffic Controller salary in Texas. Experience level, specific certifications held, and the particular FAA facility or airport where an individual works significantly influence earning potential. Larger, busier airports or those with more complex airspace generally offer higher compensation due to the increased responsibility and demands of the role.
Salary Distribution — Air Traffic Controller in Texas
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $39,680 |
| 25th percentile | $47,530 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $60,910 |
| 75th percentile | $102,390 |
| 90th percentile | $148,060 |
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 Texas 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 Texas vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Texas) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $63,410 |
| 2023 | $78,810 |
| 2024 | $77,460 |
| 2025 | $60,910 |
| 2026 (projected) | $60,910 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Texas Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $63,410 | $53,742 |
| 2023 | $78,810 | $55,720 |
| 2024 | $77,460 | $55,556 |
| 2025 | $60,910 | $56,947 |
| 2026 (projected) | $60,910 | $56,947 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by Experience Level in Texas
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $47,530 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $60,910 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $102,390 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $148,060 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other States
Related Air Traffic Controller Salaries in Texas
How other high-demand occupations in Texas compare to Air Traffic Controller ($60,910 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Air Traffic Controller | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilot in TX | $215,150 | +253.2% | $103.44/hr |
| Construction Supervisor in TX | $74,520 | +22.3% | $35.83/hr |
| Plumber in TX | $59,840 | -1.8% | $28.77/hr |
| Electrician in TX | $58,570 | -3.8% | $28.16/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in TX | $48,310 | -20.7% | $23.23/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in TX | $46,670 | -23.4% | $22.44/hr |
| Construction Laborer in TX | $40,620 | -33.3% | $19.53/hr |
| Property and Real Estate Manager in TX | $61,320 | +0.7% | $29.48/hr |
| Firefighter in TX | $60,180 | -1.2% | $28.93/hr |
| Graphic Designer in TX | $60,150 | -1.2% | $28.92/hr |
| Title Examiner in TX | $60,120 | -1.3% | $28.90/hr |
| Licensed Practical Nurse in TX | $62,240 | +2.2% | $29.92/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for an Air Traffic Controller in Texas?
- The median salary for an Air Traffic Controller in Texas is $60,910 per year, which equates to approximately $29 per hour. This figure is 7.0% higher than the national average for this profession.
How much can an Air Traffic Controller make in Texas?
- Air Traffic Controllers in Texas can expect to earn within a wide salary range, from $39,680 on the lower end to $148,060 at the higher end. The median income sits at $60,910 annually.
Is the salary for Air Traffic Controllers higher in Texas compared to the national average?
- Yes, Air Traffic Controllers in Texas earn approximately 7.0% more than the national average. The median salary in Texas is $60,910 per year, while the national median is lower.
How many Air Traffic Controllers are employed in Texas?
- There are an estimated 1,310 Air Traffic Controllers employed across Texas. The median salary for these professionals in the state is $60,910 per year.