Air Traffic Controller Salary in Aberdeen, South Dakota
The median air traffic controller salary in Aberdeen, SD is $115,399 per year, which is 16% below the national median and 4.5% below the South Dakota state average.
Air Traffic Controller Pay in Aberdeen: What to Expect (2026)
Aberdeen offers a median air traffic controller salary of $115,399, which is $5,495 below the South Dakota state average of $120,894. Compared to the national median of $137,380, Aberdeen pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Aberdeen's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 84% of the national average. This means the $115,399 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $137,380 in an average-cost city. This makes Aberdeen an attractive option for air traffic controllers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for air traffic controllers in Aberdeen spans from $68,880 at the 10th percentile to $166,320 at the 90th percentile — a $97,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $71,400, while senior air traffic controllers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $159,600. Aberdeen is a smaller market (pop. 28,324), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Aberdeen by Experience
In Aberdeen, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $71,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $159,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Aberdeen, SD
| Percentile | Aberdeen |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $68,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,720 |
| Median (50th) | $115,399 |
| 75th Percentile | $147,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $166,320 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Aberdeen
Education
Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Aberdeen and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Aberdeen may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Air Traffic Controller Jobs in Aberdeen
Browse open air traffic controller positions in Aberdeen, SD: