Air Traffic Controller Salary in Bismarck, ND: $123,642 (2026)

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

Bismarck offers a median air traffic controller salary of $123,642, which is $0 above the North Dakota state average of $123,642. Compared to the national median of $137,380, Bismarck pays below the national benchmark for this role.

Bismarck's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.

The salary range for air traffic controllers in Bismarck spans from $73,800 at the 10th percentile to $178,200 at the 90th percentile — a $104,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $76,500, while senior air traffic controllers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $171,000. Bismarck is a smaller market (pop. 73,529), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Bismarck by Experience

In Bismarck, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $76,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $171,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$76,500

$-8,500 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$126,000

$-14,000 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$171,000

$-19,000 vs national

Percentile	Bismarck	ND State	National
10th Percentile	$73,800	$73,800	$82,000
25th Percentile	$97,200	$97,200	$108,000
Median (50th)	$123,642	$123,642	$137,380
75th Percentile	$157,500	$157,500	$175,000
90th Percentile	$178,200	$178,200	$198,000

Percentile

Bismarck

10th Percentile

$73,800

25th Percentile

$97,200

Median (50th)

$123,642

75th Percentile

$157,500

90th Percentile

$178,200

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Bismarck

Education

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

Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Bismarck

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Bismarck, ND? ▼

The median air traffic controller salary in Bismarck, North Dakota is $123,642 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $73,800 (10th percentile) to $178,200 (90th percentile).

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

Based on the median annual salary of $123,642, a air traffic controller in Bismarck earns approximately $59 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Bismarck compare to the North Dakota state average for air traffic controller pay? ▼

Bismarck's median air traffic controller salary of $123,642 is 0.0% above the North Dakota state average of $123,642. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Bismarck, ND? ▼

Bismarck has a cost of living index of 90% compared to the national average. This means a air traffic controller salary of $123,642 in Bismarck 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 Bismarck? ▼

Most air traffic controller positions in Bismarck 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 Bismarck, North Dakota