Air Traffic Controller Salary in Independence, MO: $116,773 (2026)

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

Independence offers a median air traffic controller salary of $116,773, which is $4,121 below the Missouri state average of $120,894. Compared to the national median of $137,380, Independence pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Independence's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 85% of the national average. This means the $116,773 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $137,380 in an average-cost city. This makes Independence an attractive option for air traffic controllers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for air traffic controllers in Independence spans from $69,700 at the 10th percentile to $168,300 at the 90th percentile — a $98,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $72,250, while senior air traffic controllers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $161,500. With a population of 123,011, Independence is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Independence by Experience

In Independence, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $72,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $161,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$72,250

$-12,750 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$119,000

$-21,000 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$161,500

$-28,500 vs national

Percentile	Independence	MO State	National
10th Percentile	$69,700	$72,160	$82,000
25th Percentile	$91,800	$95,040	$108,000
Median (50th)	$116,773	$120,894	$137,380
75th Percentile	$148,750	$154,000	$175,000
90th Percentile	$168,300	$174,240	$198,000

Percentile

Independence

10th Percentile

$69,700

25th Percentile

$91,800

Median (50th)

$116,773

75th Percentile

$148,750

90th Percentile

$168,300

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Independence

Education

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

Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Independence

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Independence, MO? ▼

The median air traffic controller salary in Independence, Missouri is $116,773 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $69,700 (10th percentile) to $168,300 (90th percentile).

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

Based on the median annual salary of $116,773, a air traffic controller in Independence earns approximately $56 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Independence compare to the Missouri state average for air traffic controller pay? ▼

Independence's median air traffic controller salary of $116,773 is 3.4% below the Missouri state average of $120,894. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Independence, MO? ▼

Independence has a cost of living index of 85% compared to the national average. This means a air traffic controller salary of $116,773 in Independence 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 Independence? ▼

Most air traffic controller positions in Independence 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 Independence, Missouri