Air Traffic Controller Salary in Missouri
The median air traffic controller salary in Missouri is $120,894 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $137,380.
Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. Air Traffic Controller salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $120,894 per year, air traffic controllers in Missouri earn $16,486 less than the national median of $137,380.
A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $120,894 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $137,380 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Missouri is significant: air traffic controllers at the 10th percentile earn $72,160, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $174,240 — a $102,080 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $126,390.
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 Missouri by Experience
In Missouri, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $74,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $167,200 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Missouri
| Percentile | MO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,160 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,040 |
| Median (50th) | $120,894 |
| 75th Percentile | $154,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $174,240 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by City in Missouri
The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Missouri
Education
Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Missouri
Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Missouri'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 $46,306 over your career trajectory.
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