Augusta vs Milton: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Augusta, GA and Milton, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Augusta, GA | Milton, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $145,291▲ | $136,016 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.85▲ | $65.39 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,269▲ | $78,890 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,610▲ | $99,579 |
| 75th Percentile | $185,973▲ | $168,895 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $215,768▲ | $197,898 |
| Total Employed | 42▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Augusta, GA offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Milton.
The salary gap between Augusta and Milton is $9,275 (6.82%). Augusta's median is -4.34% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Augusta spans $131,499,Milton spans $119,008. Augusta 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, Augusta ($156,059 effective) pays 6.82% more than Milton ($146,097 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($145,291/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($215,768)
- ✓Larger job market (42 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $156,059)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Milton if…
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Augusta grew 4.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 4.3% growth in Milton over the same period.
Augusta, GA
$135,836 (2024) → $141,651 (2025)
Milton, GA
$127,164 (2024) → $132,608 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Augusta, GA
Milton, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Augusta or Milton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Augusta and Milton?
Should I relocate from Augusta to Milton as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Augusta vs Milton?
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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