Transportation & Logistics Columbia, MD Pop. 104,681

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Columbia, Maryland

The median air traffic controller salary in Columbia, MD is $162,108 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Maryland state average.

City Median
$162,108
vs State Avg
+$10,990
vs National
+$24,728
Cost of Living
118%

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Columbia by Experience

In Columbia, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $100,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $224,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$100,300
+$15,300 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$165,200
+$25,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$224,200
+$34,200 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MD

Percentile Columbia
10th Percentile $96,760
25th Percentile $127,440
Median (50th) $162,108
75th Percentile $206,500
90th Percentile $233,640

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other Maryland Cities

Silver Spring, MD
$167,604
Pop. 81,015
Germantown, MD
$157,987
Pop. 90,676
Baltimore, MD
$148,370
Pop. 585,708
Waldorf, MD
$144,249
Pop. 77,000

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Columbia

Education

Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Maryland 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 Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.