Canton vs Detroit: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Canton, MI and Detroit, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Canton, MI | Detroit, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,399 | $182,893▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.54 | $87.93▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,271 | $102,785▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $99,647 | $122,304▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $177,151 | $201,868▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $206,817 | $219,849▲ |
| Total Employed | 25 | 180▲ |
Verdict
Detroit, MI offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Canton.
The salary gap between Canton and Detroit is $44,494 (32.15%). Detroit's median is +20.41% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Canton spans $126,546,Detroit spans $117,064. Canton 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, Detroit ($182,350 effective) pays 22.80% more than Canton ($148,497 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Canton if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($182,893/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($219,849)
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $182,350)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Canton grew 12.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.7% growth in Detroit over the same period.
Canton, MI
$120,279 (2024) → $134,931 (2025)
Detroit, MI
$152,740 (2022) → $178,310 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Canton, MI
Detroit, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Canton or Detroit?
What is the hourly rate difference between Canton and Detroit?
Should I relocate from Canton to Detroit as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Canton vs Detroit?
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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