Billings vs Missoula: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Billings, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Billings, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $156,529▲ | $148,452 |
| Hourly Rate | $75.26▲ | $71.37 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,787▲ | $86,102 |
| 25th Percentile | $112,701▲ | $106,885 |
| 75th Percentile | $200,357▲ | $190,018 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $227,042▲ | $216,496 |
| Total Employed | 26▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Billings, MT offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Billings and Missoula is $8,077 (5.44%). Billings's median is +3.06% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Billings spans $136,255,Missoula spans $130,394. Billings 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, Billings ($162,712 effective) pays 5.44% more than Missoula ($154,316 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Billings if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($156,529/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($227,042)
- ✓Larger job market (26 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $162,712)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Billings grew 30.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 30.4% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Billings, MT
$117,050 (2024) → $152,607 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$111,010 (2024) → $144,732 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Billings, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Billings or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Billings and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Billings to Missoula as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Billings vs Missoula?
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