Transportation & Logistics Nevada (NV) Rank #21 of 50

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Nevada

The median air traffic controller salary in Nevada is $133,259 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $137,380.

Median Salary
$133,259
vs National
$-4,121
State Rank
#21 of 50
Cost of Living
97%

Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Nevada (2026)

Nevada ranks #21 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. Nevada 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 Nevada earn $4,121 less than the national median of $137,380.

Nevada'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 Nevada 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 Nevada for this role is Reno, where the median reaches $142,875.

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 Nevada by Experience

In Nevada, 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 Nevada is 97% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$82,450
$-2,550 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$135,800
$-4,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$184,300
$-5,700 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Nevada

Percentile NV 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 Nevada

The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Nevada include Las Vegas, Henderson, Reno, and North Las Vegas. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Nevada

Education

Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Nevada has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Radar SystemsCommunicationDecision MakingStress ManagementFAA RegulationsSituational Awareness

Job Outlook in Nevada

Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Nevada's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Nevada

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Nevada? ▼
The median air traffic controller salary in Nevada is $133,259 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $79,540 (10th percentile) to $192,060 (90th percentile).
How much does a Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Nevada? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $133,259, a air traffic controller in Nevada earns approximately $64 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Nevada a good state for air traffic controllers? ▼
Nevada ranks #21 out of 50 states for air traffic controller pay. The cost of living index is 97% of the national average. Entry-level air traffic controllers earn $82,450, while senior professionals earn $184,300.
How does Nevada compare to other states for air traffic controller salary? ▼
The highest paying state for air traffic controllers is Hawaii at $233,546. Nevada's median of $133,259 ranks #21 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Arizona ($133,259) and Minnesota ($133,259).
What is the entry-level air traffic controller salary in Nevada? ▼
An entry-level air traffic controller in Nevada earns approximately $82,450 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $135,800. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $184,300.
What city in Nevada pays air traffic controllers the most? ▼
Reno is the highest paying city in Nevada for air traffic controllers, with a median salary of $142,875. Other cities include Las Vegas and Henderson.