Anchorage vs Fairbanks: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Anchorage, AK and Fairbanks, AK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Anchorage, AK | Fairbanks, AK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $165,107▲ | $105,883 |
| Hourly Rate | $79.38▲ | $50.91 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,795▲ | $86,661 |
| 25th Percentile | $122,335▲ | $94,908 |
| 75th Percentile | $196,514▲ | $129,115 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $219,018▲ | $146,737 |
| Total Employed | 280▲ | 80 |
Verdict
Anchorage, AK offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fairbanks.
The salary gap between Anchorage and Fairbanks is $59,224 (55.93%). Anchorage's median is +8.70% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Anchorage spans $130,223,Fairbanks spans $60,076. Anchorage 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, Anchorage ($156,618 effective) pays 52.66% more than Fairbanks ($102,592 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Anchorage if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($165,107/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($219,018)
- ✓Larger job market (280 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $156,618)
- ✓You prefer the Alaska area and lifestyle
Choose Fairbanks if…
- ✓You prefer the Alaska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Anchorage grew 23.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.5% growth in Fairbanks over the same period.
Anchorage, AK
$130,790 (2019) → $160,970 (2025)
Fairbanks, AK
$91,730 (2022) → $103,230 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Anchorage, AK
Fairbanks, AK
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Comparisons
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