Maricopa vs Phoenix: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Maricopa, AZ and Phoenix, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Maricopa, AZ | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $151,649 | $165,363▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $72.91 | $79.50▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,956 | $97,052▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $109,187 | $136,049▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $193,627▲ | $191,437 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $216,548▲ | $210,248 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 220▲ |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Maricopa.
The salary gap between Maricopa and Phoenix is $13,714 (9.04%). 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 Maricopa spans $128,592,Phoenix spans $113,196. Maricopa 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 3.96% more than Maricopa ($153,958 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Maricopa if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($216,548)
- ✓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 Maricopa grew 7.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.6% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Maricopa, AZ
$137,784 (2024) → $147,849 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$147,120 (2021) → $161,220 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Maricopa, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Maricopa or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Maricopa and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Maricopa to Phoenix as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Maricopa vs Phoenix?
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