Air Traffic Controller Salary in Rhode Island
The median air traffic controller salary in Rhode Island is $144,249 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $137,380.
Air Traffic Controller Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for air traffic controller compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for air traffic controller pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $144,249 per year, air traffic controllers in Rhode Island earn $6,869 more than the national median of $137,380.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning air traffic controller salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: air traffic controllers at the 10th percentile earn $86,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $207,900 — a $121,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $148,370.
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 Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $89,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $199,500 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $86,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,400 |
| Median (50th) | $144,249 |
| 75th Percentile | $183,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $207,900 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for air traffic controllers in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Rhode Island
Education
Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Air Traffic Controllers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $55,251 over your career trajectory.
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