Air Traffic Controller Salary in Minnesota
The median air traffic controller salary in Minnesota is $133,259 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $137,380.
Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Minnesota (2026)
Minnesota ranks #20 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. Minnesota falls in the middle of the pack for air traffic controller pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $133,259 per year, air traffic controllers in Minnesota earn $4,121 less than the national median of $137,380.
Minnesota's cost of living is near the national average at 97%, meaning air traffic controller salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Minnesota is significant: air traffic controllers at the 10th percentile earn $79,540, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $192,060 — a $112,520 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Minnesota for this role is Minneapolis, 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 Minnesota by Experience
In Minnesota, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $82,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $184,300 per year. The cost of living index in Minnesota is 97% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Minnesota
| Percentile | MN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,760 |
| Median (50th) | $133,259 |
| 75th Percentile | $169,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $192,060 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by City in Minnesota
The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Minnesota include Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Rochester, and Duluth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Minnesota
Education
Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Minnesota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Minnesota
Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Minnesota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Air Traffic Controllers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $51,041 over your career trajectory.
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