North Providence vs Providence: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between North Providence, RI and Providence, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | North Providence, RI | Providence, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $146,448▲ | $129,546 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.40▲ | $62.28 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,940▲ | $63,296 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,760▲ | $90,118 |
| 75th Percentile | $186,680▲ | $154,040 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $207,531▲ | $154,040 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 50▲ |
Verdict
North Providence, RI offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Providence.
The salary gap between North Providence and Providence is $16,902 (13.05%). North Providence's median is -3.58% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in North Providence spans $122,591,Providence spans $90,744. North Providence 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, North Providence ($145,719 effective) pays 14.48% more than Providence ($127,289 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose North Providence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($146,448/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($207,531)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,719)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Providence if…
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in North Providence grew 9.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.2% growth in Providence over the same period.
North Providence, RI
$130,168 (2024) → $142,779 (2025)
Providence, RI
$118,960 (2023) → $126,300 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
North Providence, RI
Providence, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: North Providence or Providence?
What is the hourly rate difference between North Providence and Providence?
Should I relocate from North Providence to Providence as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in North Providence vs Providence?
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