Kennewick vs Lake Stevens: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Kennewick, WA and Lake Stevens, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kennewick, WA | Lake Stevens, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $161,836▲ | $157,769 |
| Hourly Rate | $77.81▲ | $75.85 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $93,865▲ | $91,808 |
| 25th Percentile | $118,727▲ | $116,551 |
| 75th Percentile | $205,826▲ | $196,681 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $240,650▲ | $216,301 |
| Total Employed | 19▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Kennewick, WA offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lake Stevens.
The salary gap between Kennewick and Lake Stevens is $4,067 (2.58%). Kennewick's median is +6.55% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kennewick spans $146,785,Lake Stevens spans $124,493. Kennewick 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, Kennewick ($150,685 effective) pays 2.58% more than Lake Stevens ($146,899 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kennewick if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($161,836/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($240,650)
- ✓Larger job market (19 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,685)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Lake Stevens if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Kennewick grew -6.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -6.3% growth in Lake Stevens over the same period.
Kennewick, WA
$168,351 (2024) → $157,781 (2025)
Lake Stevens, WA
$164,121 (2024) → $153,816 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kennewick, WA
Lake Stevens, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Kennewick or Lake Stevens?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kennewick and Lake Stevens?
Should I relocate from Kennewick to Lake Stevens as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Kennewick vs Lake Stevens?
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