Ames vs Cedar Rapids: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Ames, IA and Cedar Rapids, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ames, IA | Cedar Rapids, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,179▲ | $132,079 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.55▲ | $63.50 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,664▲ | $76,606 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,169▲ | $95,097 |
| 75th Percentile | $169,189▲ | $169,062 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $197,353▲ | $195,588 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 22▲ |
Verdict
Ames, IA offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cedar Rapids.
The salary gap between Ames and Cedar Rapids is $100 (0.08%). Ames's median is -12.97% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ames spans $120,689,Cedar Rapids spans $118,982. Ames has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Ames ($146,216 effective) pays 0.08% more than Cedar Rapids ($146,105 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ames if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,179/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($197,353)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,216)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Larger job market (22 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Ames grew 11.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.9% growth in Cedar Rapids over the same period.
Ames, IA
$115,146 (2024) → $128,867 (2025)
Cedar Rapids, IA
$115,060 (2024) → $128,770 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cedar Rapids, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Ames or Cedar Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ames and Cedar Rapids?
Should I relocate from Ames to Cedar Rapids as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Ames vs Cedar Rapids?
Written by Jordan Lee, ATO
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience as an air traffic controller. He specializes in terminal area control at a major airport.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.57% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, ATO, a licensed air traffic controller with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov