Air Traffic Controller Salary in Pennsylvania
The median air traffic controller salary in Pennsylvania is $131,885 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $137,380.
Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for air traffic controller pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $131,885 per year, air traffic controllers in Pennsylvania earn $5,495 less than the national median of $137,380.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning air traffic controller salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: air traffic controllers at the 10th percentile earn $78,720, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $190,080 — a $111,360 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $140,128.
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 Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $81,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $182,400 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,680 |
| Median (50th) | $131,885 |
| 75th Percentile | $168,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $190,080 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Pennsylvania
Education
Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Pennsylvania'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 $50,515 over your career trajectory.
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