Phoenix vs Surprise: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Surprise, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $165,363▲ | $149,284 |
| Hourly Rate | $79.50▲ | $71.77 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $97,052▲ | $86,585 |
| 25th Percentile | $136,049▲ | $107,485 |
| 75th Percentile | $191,437▲ | $191,084 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $210,248 | $222,113▲ |
| Total Employed | 220▲ | 31 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Surprise.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Surprise is $16,079 (10.77%). 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 Phoenix spans $113,196,Surprise spans $135,528. Surprise 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, Phoenix ($160,056 effective) pays 5.61% more than Surprise ($151,557 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Surprise if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($222,113)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Phoenix grew 9.6% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 7.3% growth in Surprise over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$147,120 (2021) → $161,220 (2025)
Surprise, AZ
$135,636 (2024) → $145,544 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Surprise, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Phoenix or Surprise?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Surprise?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Surprise as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Phoenix vs Surprise?
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