Air Traffic Controller Salary in Memphis, TN: $118,147 (2026)

Air Traffic Controller Pay in Memphis: What to Expect (2026)

Memphis offers a median air traffic controller salary of $118,147, which is $4,121 below the Tennessee state average of $122,268. Compared to the national median of $137,380, Memphis pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Memphis's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $118,147 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $137,380 in an average-cost city. This makes Memphis an attractive option for air traffic controllers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for air traffic controllers in Memphis spans from $70,520 at the 10th percentile to $170,280 at the 90th percentile — a $99,760 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $73,100, while senior air traffic controllers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $163,400. As a major metro area with a population of 633,104, Memphis typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Memphis by Experience

In Memphis, an entry-level air traffic controller earns around $73,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $163,400 per year. The local cost of living index 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

Percentile	Memphis	TN State	National
10th Percentile	$70,520	$72,980	$82,000
25th Percentile	$92,880	$96,120	$108,000
Median (50th)	$118,147	$122,268	$137,380
75th Percentile	$150,500	$155,750	$175,000
90th Percentile	$170,280	$176,220	$198,000

Percentile

Memphis

10th Percentile

$70,520

25th Percentile

$92,880

Median (50th)

$118,147

75th Percentile

$150,500

90th Percentile

$170,280

How to Become a Air Traffic Controller in Memphis

Education

Most air traffic controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Memphis and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Radar SystemsCommunicationDecision MakingStress ManagementFAA RegulationsSituational Awareness

Job Outlook

Nationally, air traffic controller employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Memphis may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Air Traffic Controller Salary in Memphis

How much does a Air Traffic Controller make in Memphis, TN? ▼

The median air traffic controller salary in Memphis, Tennessee 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 Memphis? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $118,147, a air traffic controller in Memphis earns approximately $57 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Memphis compare to the Tennessee state average for air traffic controller pay? ▼

Memphis's median air traffic controller salary of $118,147 is 3.4% below the Tennessee state average of $122,268. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Memphis, TN? ▼

Memphis has a cost of living index of 86% compared to the national average. This means a air traffic controller salary of $118,147 in Memphis has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a air traffic controller in Memphis? ▼

Most air traffic controller positions in Memphis require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Radar Systems, Communication, Decision Making, Stress Management. The job market is projected to grow 3% nationally over the next decade.

Air Traffic Controller Salary in Memphis, Tennessee