What is a good salary for a Air Traffic Controller?
In 2026, a good Air Traffic Controller salary is around $132K (the national median). $165K+ is great (top 25%), and $202K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Earning below $106K is under market — worth a negotiation.
Under the 25th percentile — grounds to negotiate.
Solid for early-career or lower-cost areas.
At/above the median — a genuinely good salary.
Top quartile; $202K+ is top 10%.
It depends on where and how senior you are
Common questions
What is a good salary for a Air Traffic Controller in 2026?
A good Air Traffic Controller salary is around $132K (the national median). $165K+ is great (top 25%) and $202K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Anything below $106K is under market for the role.
What is a high salary for a Air Traffic Controller?
$165K puts you in the top quartile; $202K or more is top-10% pay for a Air Traffic Controller. Reaching it usually means senior level, in-demand skills, or a high-cost metro.
Does a good Air Traffic Controller salary depend on location?
Yes — the same number goes much further in a low-cost city. Use the cost-of-living check to see what a salary is really worth where you live.
Percentiles from BLS-anchored national data; a good salary also depends on cost of living and your level.