Transportation & Logistics Delaware (DE) Rank #15 of 50

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Delaware

The median air traffic controller salary in Delaware is $138,754 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $137,380.

Median Salary
$138,754
vs National
+$1,374
State Rank
#15 of 50
Cost of Living
101%

Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)

Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for air traffic controller pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $138,754 per year, air traffic controllers in Delaware earn $1,374 more than the national median of $137,380.

Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning air traffic controller salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Delaware is significant: air traffic controllers at the 10th percentile earn $82,820, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $199,980 — a $117,160 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Delaware for this role is Wilmington, where the median reaches $144,249.

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 Delaware by Experience

In Delaware, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $85,850, while experienced professionals earn up to $191,900 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$85,850
+$850 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$141,400
+$1,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$191,900
+$1,900 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Delaware

Percentile DE Salary
10th Percentile $82,820
25th Percentile $109,080
Median (50th) $138,754
75th Percentile $176,750
90th Percentile $199,980

Air Traffic Controller Salary by City in Delaware

The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Wilmington, DE
$144,249
Pop. 70,898 · COL 105%
Dover, DE
$131,885
Pop. 39,403 · COL 96%
Newark, DE
$140,128
Pop. 33,398 · COL 102%
Middletown, DE
$134,632
Pop. 22,350 · COL 98%
Bear, DE
$136,006
Pop. 21,000 · COL 99%

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Delaware

Education

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

Key Skills

Radar SystemsCommunicationDecision MakingStress ManagementFAA RegulationsSituational Awareness

Job Outlook in Delaware

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Delaware

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Delaware? ▼
The median air traffic controller salary in Delaware is $138,754 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $82,820 (10th percentile) to $199,980 (90th percentile).
How much does a Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Delaware? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $138,754, a air traffic controller in Delaware earns approximately $67 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Delaware a good state for air traffic controllers? ▼
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for air traffic controller pay. The cost of living index is 101% of the national average. Entry-level air traffic controllers earn $85,850, while senior professionals earn $191,900.
How does Delaware compare to other states for air traffic controller salary? ▼
The highest paying state for air traffic controllers is Hawaii at $233,546. Delaware's median of $138,754 ranks #15 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Rhode Island ($144,249) and Virginia ($142,875).
What is the entry-level air traffic controller salary in Delaware? ▼
An entry-level air traffic controller in Delaware earns approximately $85,850 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $141,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $191,900.
What city in Delaware pays air traffic controllers the most? ▼
Wilmington is the highest paying city in Delaware for air traffic controllers, with a median salary of $144,249. Other cities include Dover and Newark.