As of January 01, 2026, the average annual salary for faa air traffic controller in the US is $50,962, equivalent to $25 per hour, $980 weekly, or $4,247 monthly. These figures, sourced from Salary.com’s real-time job posting scans, highlight competitive earning potential for faa air traffic controller in cities like Santa Clara, San Jose, and Fremont.

Annually Salaries for faa air traffic controller in the US vary widely, spanning from $41,898 to $64,558. Most professionals fall between the 25th percentile ($46,218) and 75th percentile ($58,079), while top earners (90th percentile) make $64,558 per year. This $11,861 pay gap underscores opportunities for salary growth through certifications, specialized skills like Scheduling or Safety Training, or targeting high-paying regions like District of Columbia or California.

Location and experience significantly influence earnings. For example, District of Columbia faa air traffic controller often earn 10.7% above national averages due to demand from Fortune 39 companies and industry startups. Professionals are advised to focus on high-growth sectors like to offset market challenges.

Based on HR-reported data: a national average with a geographic differential
faa air traffic controller Salaries by Percentile
Percentile Salary Location Last Updated
10th Percentile faa air traffic controller Salary $41,898 US January 01, 2026
25th Percentile faa air traffic controller Salary $46,218 US January 01, 2026
50th Percentile faa air traffic controller Salary $50,962 US January 01, 2026
75th Percentile faa air traffic controller Salary $58,079 US January 01, 2026
90th Percentile faa air traffic controller Salary $64,558 US January 01, 2026
25% $46,218 10% $41,898 90% $64,558 75% $58,079 $50,962 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click
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Check out faa air traffic controller jobs in the United States

Terminal Air Traffic Controller with Security Clearance

Department of the Air Force - VANDENBERG AFB, CA

Terminal Air Traffic Controller with Security Clearance

Department of Defense - VANDENBERG AFB, CA

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What is A faa air traffic controller ?

The salary of an FAA air traffic controller varies based on experience, location, and specific job responsibilities. Entry-level controllers typically start with a salary around $38,000 to $50,000 annually, while those with several years of experience can earn between $70,000 and $100,000. Senior controllers and those in high-demand areas may see salaries exceeding $120,000. In addition to base pay, controllers often receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. The role requires significant training and certification, contributing to the competitive compensat...

Source: (as of 06/04/2025). Read more from

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Understand the total compensation opportunity for A faa air traffic controller, base salary plus other pay elements

Average Base Salary

Core compensation

 
 
 
46218
58079
50962

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

 
 
 
55018
71409
62892
These charts show the average base salary (core compensation), as well as the average total cash compensation for the job of faa air traffic controller in the United States. The base salary for faa air traffic controller ranges from $46,218 to $58,079 with the average base salary of $50,962. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $55,018 to $71,409 with the average total cash compensation of $62,892.

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46218
58079

 

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