Flagstaff vs Tucson: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Flagstaff, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Flagstaff, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $146,056 | $163,974▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $70.22 | $78.84▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,713 | $95,105▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $105,160 | $118,061▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $186,951 | $209,886▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $212,136 | $249,023▲ |
| Total Employed | 14 | 137▲ |
Verdict
Tucson, AZ offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Flagstaff.
The salary gap between Flagstaff and Tucson is $17,918 (12.27%). Tucson's median is +7.96% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Flagstaff spans $127,423,Tucson spans $153,918. Tucson 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, Tucson ($166,471 effective) pays 12.27% more than Flagstaff ($148,280 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Flagstaff if…
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($163,974/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($249,023)
- ✓Larger job market (137 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $166,471)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Flagstaff grew 7.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 96.8% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Flagstaff, AZ
$132,703 (2024) → $142,396 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$81,250 (2019) → $159,865 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Flagstaff, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Flagstaff or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Flagstaff and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Flagstaff to Tucson as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Flagstaff vs Tucson?
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