Henderson vs Reno: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Henderson, NV and Reno, NV. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Henderson, NV | Reno, NV |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $158,010▲ | $153,592 |
| Hourly Rate | $75.96▲ | $73.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $91,646▲ | $89,084 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,768▲ | $110,587 |
| 75th Percentile | $202,253▲ | $196,598 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $242,912▲ | $238,068 |
| Total Employed | 79▲ | 45 |
Verdict
Henderson, NV offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Reno.
The salary gap between Henderson and Reno is $4,418 (2.88%). Henderson's median is +4.03% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Henderson spans $151,266,Reno spans $148,984. Henderson 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, Henderson ($160,743 effective) pays 2.88% more than Reno ($156,248 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Henderson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($158,010/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($242,912)
- ✓Larger job market (79 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $160,743)
- ✓You prefer the Nevada area and lifestyle
Choose Reno if…
- ✓You prefer the Nevada area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Henderson grew 1.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 0.1% growth in Reno over the same period.
Henderson, NV
$151,334 (2024) → $154,051 (2025)
Reno, NV
$149,663 (2024) → $149,744 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Henderson, NV
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Henderson or Reno?
What is the hourly rate difference between Henderson and Reno?
Should I relocate from Henderson to Reno as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Henderson vs Reno?
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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