Charlotte vs Garner: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Charlotte, NC and Garner, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charlotte, NC | Garner, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $150,630▲ | $131,854 |
| Hourly Rate | $72.41▲ | $63.39 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,365▲ | $76,475 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,453▲ | $96,108 |
| 75th Percentile | $192,807▲ | $168,773 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $222,964▲ | $191,494 |
| Total Employed | 148▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Charlotte, NC offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Garner.
The salary gap between Charlotte and Garner is $18,776 (14.24%). Charlotte's median is -0.83% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charlotte spans $135,599,Garner spans $115,019. Charlotte 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, Charlotte ($160,929 effective) pays 14.24% more than Garner ($140,870 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charlotte if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($150,630/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($222,964)
- ✓Larger job market (148 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $160,929)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Garner if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Charlotte grew 3.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 3.7% growth in Garner over the same period.
Charlotte, NC
$141,560 (2024) → $146,856 (2025)
Garner, NC
$123,915 (2024) → $128,550 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Garner, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Charlotte or Garner?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charlotte and Garner?
Should I relocate from Charlotte to Garner as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Charlotte vs Garner?
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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