Transportation & Logistics Idaho (ID) Rank #26 of 50

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Idaho

The median air traffic controller salary in Idaho is $129,137 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $137,380.

Median Salary
$129,137
vs National
$-8,243
State Rank
#26 of 50
Cost of Living
94%

Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Idaho (2026)

Idaho ranks #26 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. Air Traffic Controller salaries in Idaho are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $129,137 per year, air traffic controllers in Idaho earn $8,243 less than the national median of $137,380.

A key advantage of working in Idaho is its below-average cost of living (94% of the national index). This means the $129,137 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $137,380 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Idaho is significant: air traffic controllers at the 10th percentile earn $77,080, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $186,120 — a $109,040 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Idaho for this role is Boise, where the median reaches $137,380.

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 Idaho by Experience

In Idaho, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $79,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $178,600 per year. The cost of living index in Idaho is 94% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$79,900
$-5,100 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$131,600
$-8,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$178,600
$-11,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Idaho

Percentile ID Salary
10th Percentile $77,080
25th Percentile $101,520
Median (50th) $129,137
75th Percentile $164,500
90th Percentile $186,120

Air Traffic Controller Salary by City in Idaho

The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Idaho include Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Idaho Falls. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Idaho

Education

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

Key Skills

Radar SystemsCommunicationDecision MakingStress ManagementFAA RegulationsSituational Awareness

Job Outlook in Idaho

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Idaho

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Idaho? ▼
The median air traffic controller salary in Idaho is $129,137 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $77,080 (10th percentile) to $186,120 (90th percentile).
How much does a Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Idaho? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $129,137, a air traffic controller in Idaho earns approximately $62 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Idaho a good state for air traffic controllers? ▼
Idaho ranks #26 out of 50 states for air traffic controller pay. The cost of living index is 94% of the national average. Entry-level air traffic controllers earn $79,900, while senior professionals earn $178,600.
How does Idaho compare to other states for air traffic controller salary? ▼
The highest paying state for air traffic controllers is Hawaii at $233,546. Idaho's median of $129,137 ranks #26 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Illinois ($130,511) and Montana ($130,511).
What is the entry-level air traffic controller salary in Idaho? ▼
An entry-level air traffic controller in Idaho earns approximately $79,900 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $131,600. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $178,600.
What city in Idaho pays air traffic controllers the most? ▼
Boise is the highest paying city in Idaho for air traffic controllers, with a median salary of $137,380. Other cities include Meridian and Nampa.