Air Traffic Controllers in New Mexico
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | New Mexico | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $145,290 | $144,580 | +0.5% vs US |
| State Rank | #14 of 47 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 360 jobs | 22,400 jobs | 1.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in New Mexico
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $73,720 | $35.44 |
| 25th Percentile | $112,860 | $54.26 |
| Median | $145,290 | $69.85 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,460 | $79.55 |
| 90th Percentile | $182,250 | $87.62 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Air Traffic Controllers in New Mexico in 2026?
With a median salary of $145,290 in New Mexico and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +20.5%, air traffic controllers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can air traffic controllers increase their salary in New Mexico?
Air Traffic Controllers in New Mexico 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: New Mexico currently ranks #14 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 New Mexico?
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 New Mexico compared to the national average?
The median salary for Air Traffic Controllers in New Mexico is $145,290, which is roughly in line with the national median of $144,580.