Transportation & Logistics Oklahoma (OK) Rank #47 of 50

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Oklahoma

The median air traffic controller salary in Oklahoma is $118,147 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $137,380.

Median Salary
$118,147
vs National
$-19,233
State Rank
#47 of 50
Cost of Living
86%

Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Oklahoma (2026)

Oklahoma ranks #47 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. Air Traffic Controller salaries in Oklahoma are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $118,147 per year, air traffic controllers in Oklahoma earn $19,233 less than the national median of $137,380.

A key advantage of working in Oklahoma is its below-average cost of living (86% of the national index). This means the $118,147 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $137,380 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Oklahoma is significant: air traffic controllers at the 10th percentile earn $70,520, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $170,280 — a $99,760 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Oklahoma for this role is Edmond, 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 Oklahoma by Experience

In Oklahoma, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $73,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $163,400 per year. The cost of living index in Oklahoma is 86% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$73,100
$-11,900 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$120,400
$-19,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$163,400
$-26,600 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Oklahoma

Percentile OK Salary
10th Percentile $70,520
25th Percentile $92,880
Median (50th) $118,147
75th Percentile $150,500
90th Percentile $170,280

Air Traffic Controller Salary by City in Oklahoma

The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Oklahoma include Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, and Broken Arrow. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Oklahoma

Education

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

Key Skills

Radar SystemsCommunicationDecision MakingStress ManagementFAA RegulationsSituational Awareness

Job Outlook in Oklahoma

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Oklahoma

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Oklahoma? ▼
The median air traffic controller salary in Oklahoma is $118,147 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $137,380. Salaries range from $70,520 (10th percentile) to $170,280 (90th percentile).
How much does a Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Oklahoma? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $118,147, a air traffic controller in Oklahoma earns approximately $57 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Oklahoma a good state for air traffic controllers? ▼
Oklahoma ranks #47 out of 50 states for air traffic controller pay. The cost of living index is 86% of the national average. Entry-level air traffic controllers earn $73,100, while senior professionals earn $163,400.
How does Oklahoma compare to other states for air traffic controller salary? ▼
The highest paying state for air traffic controllers is Hawaii at $233,546. Oklahoma's median of $118,147 ranks #47 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Kansas ($119,521) and Kentucky ($119,521).
What is the entry-level air traffic controller salary in Oklahoma? ▼
An entry-level air traffic controller in Oklahoma earns approximately $73,100 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $120,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $163,400.
What city in Oklahoma pays air traffic controllers the most? ▼
Edmond is the highest paying city in Oklahoma for air traffic controllers, with a median salary of $126,390. Other cities include Oklahoma City and Tulsa.