Transportation & Logistics Connecticut (CT) Rank #8 of 50

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Connecticut

The median air traffic controller salary in Connecticut is $153,866 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median of $137,380.

Median Salary
$153,866
vs National
+$16,486
State Rank
#8 of 50
Cost of Living
112%

Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Connecticut (2026)

Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. This places Connecticut in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for air traffic controllers seeking high pay. At $153,866 per year, air traffic controllers in Connecticut earn $16,486 more than the national median of $137,380.

It's worth noting that Connecticut's cost of living is 112% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $153,866 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $137,380.

The salary spread in Connecticut is significant: air traffic controllers at the 10th percentile earn $91,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $221,760 — a $129,920 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Connecticut for this role is Stamford, where the median reaches $189,584.

Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for air traffic controllers across the country.

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Connecticut by Experience

In Connecticut, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $95,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $212,800 per year. The cost of living index in Connecticut is 112% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$95,200
+$10,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$156,800
+$16,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$212,800
+$22,800 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Connecticut

Percentile CT Salary
10th Percentile $91,840
25th Percentile $120,960
Median (50th) $153,866
75th Percentile $196,000
90th Percentile $221,760

Air Traffic Controller Salary by City in Connecticut

The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Connecticut include Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford, and Stamford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Connecticut

Education

Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Connecticut has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Radar SystemsCommunicationDecision MakingStress ManagementFAA RegulationsSituational Awareness

Job Outlook in Connecticut

Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Connecticut's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Connecticut

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Connecticut? ▼
The median air traffic controller salary in Connecticut is $153,866 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $91,840 (10th percentile) to $221,760 (90th percentile).
How much does a Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Connecticut? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $153,866, a air traffic controller in Connecticut earns approximately $74 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Connecticut a good state for air traffic controllers? ▼
Connecticut ranks #8 out of 50 states for air traffic controller pay. The cost of living index is 112% of the national average. Entry-level air traffic controllers earn $95,200, while senior professionals earn $212,800.
How does Connecticut compare to other states for air traffic controller salary? ▼
The highest paying state for air traffic controllers is Hawaii at $233,546. Connecticut's median of $153,866 ranks #8 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Jersey ($157,987) and Washington ($157,987).
What is the entry-level air traffic controller salary in Connecticut? ▼
An entry-level air traffic controller in Connecticut earns approximately $95,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $156,800. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $212,800.
What city in Connecticut pays air traffic controllers the most? ▼
Stamford is the highest paying city in Connecticut for air traffic controllers, with a median salary of $189,584. Other cities include Bridgeport and New Haven.