As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for a Train Controller in the United States is $159,231 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $77.
However, a Train Controller's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Train Controller's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Train Controllers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 6.12% |
| Financial Reporting | 3.12% |
| Generally Accepted Accounting Principles | 1.06% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Technical Accounting
|
$170,377 |
7%
|
|
Accountability
|
$168,785 |
6%
|
|
Process Improvement
|
$165,600 |
4%
|
|
Financial Management
|
$164,008 |
3%
|
|
Finance and Accounting
|
$164,008 |
3%
|
|
Initiative
|
$164,008 |
3%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Train Controllers enter the field with a Bachelor's Degree degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Train Controller with a Bachelor's Degree is between $160,627 and $172,160).
Train Controller Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.4% |
| High School | 5.5% |
| Associates | 6.9% |
| Bachelors | 57.6% |
| Masters | 29.4% |
| Doctorate | 0.1% |
Understanding how a Train Controller's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on April 01, 2026Salaries for a Train Controller can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $136,314 in 2023 to around $135,120 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Train Controller salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $136,314 |
| 2024 | $135,833 |
| 2025 | $135,120 |
| 2026 |
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|
| 2027 |
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|
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Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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