Air Traffic Controllers in District of Columbia
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | District of Columbia | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $35,940 | $144,580 | -75.1% vs US |
| State Rank | #47 of 47 states | ||
| Employment | 700 jobs | 22,400 jobs | 3.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in District of Columbia
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,940 | $17.28 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,940 | $17.28 |
| Median | $35,940 | $17.28 |
| 75th Percentile | $133,160 | $64.02 |
| 90th Percentile | $192,440 | $92.52 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Air Traffic Controllers in District of Columbia in 2026?
With a median salary of $35,940 in District of Columbia and a 2016–2024 salary trend of +56.9%, air traffic controllers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can air traffic controllers increase their salary in District of Columbia?
Air Traffic Controllers in District of Columbia can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: District of Columbia currently ranks #47 out of 47 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Air Traffic Controllers in District of Columbia?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Engineering Services | $176,570 |
| Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services | $176,570 |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $164,370 |
How are Air Traffic Controllers paid in District of Columbia compared to the national average?
The median salary for Air Traffic Controllers in District of Columbia is $35,940, which is 75.1% below the national median of $144,580.