Air Traffic Controller Salary in Knoxville, Tennessee
The median air traffic controller salary in Knoxville, TN is $120,894 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Air Traffic Controller Pay in Knoxville: What to Expect (2026)
Knoxville offers a median air traffic controller salary of $120,894, which is $1,374 below the Tennessee state average of $122,268. Compared to the national median of $137,380, Knoxville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Knoxville's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $120,894 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $137,380 in an average-cost city. This makes Knoxville an attractive option for air traffic controllers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for air traffic controllers in Knoxville spans from $72,160 at the 10th percentile to $174,240 at the 90th percentile — a $102,080 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $74,800, while senior air traffic controllers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $167,200. With a population of 190,740, Knoxville is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Knoxville by Experience
In Knoxville, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $74,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $167,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Knoxville, TN
| Percentile | Knoxville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,160 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,040 |
| Median (50th) | $120,894 |
| 75th Percentile | $154,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $174,240 |
Air Traffic Controller Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Knoxville
Education
Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Knoxville and the surrounding Tennessee 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 Knoxville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Air Traffic Controller Jobs in Knoxville
Browse open air traffic controller positions in Knoxville, TN: