Holladay vs Orem: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Holladay, UT and Orem, UT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Holladay, UT | Orem, UT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $147,553▲ | $145,957 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.94▲ | $70.17 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,580▲ | $84,655 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,238▲ | $105,089 |
| 75th Percentile | $188,103▲ | $186,825 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $209,119 | $218,672▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 24▲ |
Verdict
Holladay and Orem are closely matched on overall air traffic controller compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Holladay and Orem is $1,596 (1.09%). Holladay's median is -2.85% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Holladay spans $123,539,Orem spans $134,017. Orem 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, Holladay ($150,411 effective) pays 1.09% more than Orem ($148,784 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Holladay if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($147,553/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,411)
- ✓You prefer the Utah area and lifestyle
Choose Orem if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($218,672)
- ✓Larger job market (24 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Utah area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Holladay grew 12.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.2% growth in Orem over the same period.
Holladay, UT
$128,235 (2024) → $143,856 (2025)
Orem, UT
$126,848 (2024) → $142,300 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Holladay, UT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Holladay or Orem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Holladay and Orem?
Should I relocate from Holladay to Orem as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Holladay vs Orem?
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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