Dearborn Heights vs Grand Rapids: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Dearborn Heights, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dearborn Heights, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,448 | $144,134▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $68.00 | $69.30▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,040 | $83,598▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $101,843 | $103,777▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $178,023 | $184,492▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $212,370▲ | $210,569 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 48▲ |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Dearborn Heights.
The salary gap between Dearborn Heights and Grand Rapids is $2,686 (1.90%). Grand Rapids's median is -5.10% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dearborn Heights spans $130,330,Grand Rapids spans $126,971. Dearborn Heights 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, Grand Rapids ($154,650 effective) pays 1.90% more than Dearborn Heights ($151,768 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dearborn Heights if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($212,370)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,134/year)
- ✓Larger job market (48 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $154,650)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Dearborn Heights grew 12.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.2% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Dearborn Heights, MI
$122,929 (2024) → $137,904 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$125,263 (2024) → $140,523 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dearborn Heights, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Dearborn Heights or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dearborn Heights and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from Dearborn Heights to Grand Rapids as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Dearborn Heights vs Grand Rapids?
Related Comparisons
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