Columbia vs Hilton Head Island: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Columbia, SC and Hilton Head Island, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Hilton Head Island, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,508▲ | $136,016 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.55▲ | $65.39 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,494▲ | $78,890 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,166▲ | $97,932 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,849▲ | $173,897 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $202,382▲ | $193,592 |
| Total Employed | 29▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hilton Head Island.
The salary gap between Columbia and Hilton Head Island is $4,492 (3.30%). Columbia's median is -7.49% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $120,888,Hilton Head Island spans $114,702. Columbia 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, Columbia ($153,561 effective) pays 3.30% more than Hilton Head Island ($148,651 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,508/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($202,382)
- ✓Larger job market (29 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $153,561)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Hilton Head Island if…
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Columbia grew 52.3% from 2023 to 2025, compared to 16.7% growth in Hilton Head Island over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$89,940 (2023) → $136,987 (2025)
Hilton Head Island, SC
$113,611 (2024) → $132,608 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Hilton Head Island, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Columbia or Hilton Head Island?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Hilton Head Island?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Hilton Head Island as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Columbia vs Hilton Head Island?
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