New York vs Albany: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between New York, NY and Albany, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York, NY | Albany, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $212,965▲ | $186,314 |
| Hourly Rate | $102.39▲ | $89.57 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $123,520▲ | $108,063 |
| 25th Percentile | $153,335▲ | $134,146 |
| 75th Percentile | $272,595▲ | $238,482 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $319,311▲ | $266,824 |
| Total Employed | 2,020▲ | 18 |
Verdict
New York, NY offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Albany.
The salary gap between New York and Albany is $26,651 (14.30%). New York's median is +40.21% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New York spans $195,791,Albany spans $158,761. New York 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, New York ($183,749 effective) pays 14.30% more than Albany ($160,754 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New York if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($212,965/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($319,311)
- ✓Larger job market (2,020 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $183,749)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Albany if…
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in New York grew 25.9% from 2020 to 2025, compared to 98.4% growth in Albany over the same period.
New York, NY
$164,880 (2020) → $207,629 (2025)
Albany, NY
$91,560 (2021) → $181,646 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New York, NY
Albany, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: New York or Albany?
What is the hourly rate difference between New York and Albany?
Should I relocate from New York to Albany as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in New York vs Albany?
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