Air Traffic Controllers in Washington
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Washington | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $164,070 | $144,580 | +13.5% vs US |
| State Rank | #7 of 47 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 600 jobs | 22,400 jobs | 2.7% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Washington
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $84,120 | $40.44 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,990 | $52.40 |
| Median | $164,070 | $78.88 |
| 75th Percentile | $187,800 | $90.29 |
| 90th Percentile | $209,330 | $100.64 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Air Traffic Controllers in Washington in 2026?
With a median salary of $164,070 in Washington and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +40.2%, air traffic controllers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can air traffic controllers increase their salary in Washington?
Air Traffic Controllers in Washington 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: Washington currently ranks #7 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 Washington?
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 Washington compared to the national average?
The median salary for Air Traffic Controllers in Washington is $164,070, which is 13.5% above the national median of $144,580.