Fort Lauderdale vs Tampa: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Fort Lauderdale, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $163,893▲ | $154,573 |
| Hourly Rate | $78.79▲ | $74.31 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $95,058▲ | $91,595 |
| 25th Percentile | $118,003▲ | $113,781 |
| 75th Percentile | $209,782▲ | $183,005 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $243,018▲ | $190,965 |
| Total Employed | 29 | 110▲ |
Verdict
Fort Lauderdale, FL offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tampa.
The salary gap between Fort Lauderdale and Tampa is $9,320 (6.03%). Fort Lauderdale's median is +7.91% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fort Lauderdale spans $147,960,Tampa spans $99,370. Fort Lauderdale 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, Fort Lauderdale ($162,592 effective) pays 6.12% more than Tampa ($153,209 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fort Lauderdale if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($163,893/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($243,018)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $162,592)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Fort Lauderdale grew 18.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.4% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
$135,445 (2024) → $159,786 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$119,230 (2021) → $150,700 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Fort Lauderdale or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fort Lauderdale and Tampa?
Should I relocate from Fort Lauderdale to Tampa as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Fort Lauderdale vs Tampa?
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