Kenosha vs Middleton: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Kenosha, WI and Middleton, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kenosha, WI | Middleton, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $139,366▲ | $129,918 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.00▲ | $62.47 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,832▲ | $75,591 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,189▲ | $95,321 |
| 75th Percentile | $177,301▲ | $164,951 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $206,790▲ | $181,518 |
| Total Employed | 25▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Kenosha, WI offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Middleton.
The salary gap between Kenosha and Middleton is $9,448 (7.27%). Kenosha's median is -8.24% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kenosha spans $125,958,Middleton spans $105,927. Kenosha 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, Kenosha ($149,214 effective) pays 7.27% more than Middleton ($139,099 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kenosha if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,366/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($206,790)
- ✓Larger job market (25 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $149,214)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Middleton if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Kenosha grew 14.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.6% growth in Middleton over the same period.
Kenosha, WI
$118,570 (2024) → $135,874 (2025)
Middleton, WI
$110,531 (2024) → $126,663 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kenosha, WI
Middleton, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Kenosha or Middleton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kenosha and Middleton?
Should I relocate from Kenosha to Middleton as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Kenosha vs Middleton?
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