New Bedford vs Worcester: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between New Bedford, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Bedford, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $166,025 | $168,457▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $79.82 | $80.99▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $96,295 | $97,705▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $119,685 | $121,289▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $212,321 | $215,625▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $239,488 | $261,108▲ |
| Total Employed | 24 | 34▲ |
Verdict
Worcester, MA offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to New Bedford.
The salary gap between New Bedford and Worcester is $2,432 (1.46%). Worcester's median is +10.91% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Bedford spans $143,193,Worcester spans $163,403. Worcester 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, Worcester ($155,260 effective) pays 1.46% more than New Bedford ($153,018 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Bedford if…
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($168,457/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($261,108)
- ✓Larger job market (34 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $155,260)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in New Bedford grew -2.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -2.6% growth in Worcester over the same period.
New Bedford, MA
$166,149 (2024) → $161,865 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$168,583 (2024) → $164,236 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Bedford, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: New Bedford or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Bedford and Worcester?
Should I relocate from New Bedford to Worcester as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in New Bedford vs Worcester?
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