Central Point vs Salem: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Central Point, OR and Salem, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Central Point, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,567 | $166,622▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $74.79 | $80.11▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,229 | $96,640▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $112,008 | $119,968▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $192,969 | $213,276▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $210,008 | $253,347▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 44▲ |
Verdict
Salem, OR offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Central Point.
The salary gap between Central Point and Salem is $11,055 (7.11%). Salem's median is +9.70% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Central Point spans $119,779,Salem spans $156,707. Salem has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced air traffic controllers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Salem ($162,400 effective) pays 7.11% more than Central Point ($151,625 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Central Point if…
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($166,622/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($253,347)
- ✓Larger job market (44 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $162,400)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Central Point grew 9.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.8% growth in Salem over the same period.
Central Point, OR
$138,106 (2024) → $151,669 (2025)
Salem, OR
$147,920 (2024) → $162,447 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Central Point, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Central Point or Salem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Central Point and Salem?
Should I relocate from Central Point to Salem as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Central Point vs Salem?
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