Air Traffic Controller Salary in Topeka, KS: $114,025 (2026)

Air Traffic Controller Pay in Topeka: What to Expect (2026)

Topeka offers a median air traffic controller salary of $114,025, which is $5,496 below the Kansas state average of $119,521. Compared to the national median of $137,380, Topeka pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Topeka's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 83% of the national average. This means the $114,025 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $137,380 in an average-cost city. This makes Topeka an attractive option for air traffic controllers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for air traffic controllers in Topeka spans from $68,060 at the 10th percentile to $164,340 at the 90th percentile — a $96,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $70,550, while senior air traffic controllers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $157,700. With a population of 127,473, Topeka is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Topeka by Experience

In Topeka, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $70,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $157,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 83% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$70,550

$-14,450 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$116,200

$-23,800 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$157,700

$-32,300 vs national

Percentile	Topeka	KS State	National
10th Percentile	$68,060	$71,340	$82,000
25th Percentile	$89,640	$93,960	$108,000
Median (50th)	$114,025	$119,521	$137,380
75th Percentile	$145,250	$152,250	$175,000
90th Percentile	$164,340	$172,260	$198,000

Percentile

Topeka

10th Percentile

$68,060

25th Percentile

$89,640

Median (50th)

$114,025

75th Percentile

$145,250

90th Percentile

$164,340

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Topeka

Education

Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Topeka and the surrounding Kansas area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Radar SystemsCommunicationDecision MakingStress ManagementFAA RegulationsSituational Awareness

Job Outlook

Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Topeka may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Topeka

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Topeka, KS? ▼

The median air traffic controller salary in Topeka, Kansas is $114,025 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $68,060 (10th percentile) to $164,340 (90th percentile).

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Topeka? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $114,025, a air traffic controller in Topeka earns approximately $55 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Topeka compare to the Kansas state average for air traffic controller pay? ▼

Topeka's median air traffic controller salary of $114,025 is 4.6% below the Kansas state average of $119,521. The local cost of living index is 83% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Topeka, KS? ▼

Topeka has a cost of living index of 83% compared to the national average. This means a air traffic controller salary of $114,025 in Topeka has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a air traffic controller in Topeka? ▼

Most air traffic controller positions in Topeka require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Radar Systems, Communication, Decision Making, Stress Management. The job market is projected to grow 3% nationally over the next decade.

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Topeka, Kansas