Gilbert vs Phoenix: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Gilbert, AZ and Phoenix, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gilbert, AZ | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $153,400 | $165,363▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $73.75 | $79.50▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,971 | $97,052▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $110,447 | $136,049▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $196,352▲ | $191,437 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $236,946▲ | $210,248 |
| Total Employed | 49 | 220▲ |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Gilbert.
The salary gap between Gilbert and Phoenix is $11,963 (7.80%). Phoenix's median is +8.87% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gilbert spans $147,975,Phoenix spans $113,196. Gilbert 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, Phoenix ($160,056 effective) pays 2.77% more than Gilbert ($155,736 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gilbert if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($236,946)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($165,363/year)
- ✓Larger job market (220 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $160,056)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Gilbert grew 7.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.6% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Gilbert, AZ
$139,375 (2024) → $149,556 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$147,120 (2021) → $161,220 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gilbert, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Gilbert or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gilbert and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Gilbert to Phoenix as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Gilbert vs Phoenix?
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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