Aurora vs Decatur: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Aurora, IL and Decatur, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aurora, IL | Decatur, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $145,637 | $149,540▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $70.01 | $71.89▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,469 | $86,733▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $104,858 | $107,669▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $186,416 | $190,991▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $213,644▲ | $213,632 |
| Total Employed | 44▲ | 13 |
Verdict
Aurora and Decatur are closely matched on overall air traffic controller compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Aurora and Decatur is $3,903 (2.68%). Decatur's median is -1.54% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aurora spans $129,175,Decatur spans $126,899. Aurora 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, Decatur ($154,006 effective) pays 2.68% more than Aurora ($149,987 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aurora if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,644)
- ✓Larger job market (44 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Decatur if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($149,540/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $154,006)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Aurora grew 0.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 0.1% growth in Decatur over the same period.
Aurora, IL
$141,911 (2024) → $141,988 (2025)
Decatur, IL
$145,714 (2024) → $145,793 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aurora, IL
Decatur, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Aurora or Decatur?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aurora and Decatur?
Should I relocate from Aurora to Decatur as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Aurora vs Decatur?
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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