Transportation & Logistics Kansas (KS) Rank #45 of 50

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Kansas

The median air traffic controller salary in Kansas is $119,521 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $137,380.

Median Salary
$119,521
vs National
$-17,859
State Rank
#45 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Kansas (2026)

Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. Air Traffic Controller salaries in Kansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $119,521 per year, air traffic controllers in Kansas earn $17,859 less than the national median of $137,380.

A key advantage of working in Kansas is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $119,521 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $137,380 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Kansas is significant: air traffic controllers at the 10th percentile earn $71,340, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $172,260 — a $100,920 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Kansas for this role is Overland Park, where the median reaches $131,885.

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 Kansas by Experience

In Kansas, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $73,950, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,300 per year. The cost of living index in Kansas is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$73,950
$-11,050 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$121,800
$-18,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$165,300
$-24,700 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Kansas

Percentile KS Salary
10th Percentile $71,340
25th Percentile $93,960
Median (50th) $119,521
75th Percentile $152,250
90th Percentile $172,260

Air Traffic Controller Salary by City in Kansas

The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Kansas include Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, and Topeka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Kansas

Education

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

Key Skills

Radar SystemsCommunicationDecision MakingStress ManagementFAA RegulationsSituational Awareness

Job Outlook in Kansas

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Kansas

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Kansas? ▼
The median air traffic controller salary in Kansas is $119,521 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $71,340 (10th percentile) to $172,260 (90th percentile).
How much does a Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Kansas? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $119,521, a air traffic controller in Kansas earns approximately $57 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Kansas a good state for air traffic controllers? ▼
Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for air traffic controller pay. The cost of living index is 87% of the national average. Entry-level air traffic controllers earn $73,950, while senior professionals earn $165,300.
How does Kansas compare to other states for air traffic controller salary? ▼
The highest paying state for air traffic controllers is Hawaii at $233,546. Kansas's median of $119,521 ranks #45 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include South Dakota ($120,894) and Alabama ($119,521).
What is the entry-level air traffic controller salary in Kansas? ▼
An entry-level air traffic controller in Kansas earns approximately $73,950 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $121,800. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $165,300.
What city in Kansas pays air traffic controllers the most? ▼
Overland Park is the highest paying city in Kansas for air traffic controllers, with a median salary of $131,885. Other cities include Wichita and Kansas City.