Phoenix vs Yuma: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Yuma, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Yuma, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $165,363▲ | $150,748 |
| Hourly Rate | $79.50▲ | $72.48 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $97,052▲ | $87,434 |
| 25th Percentile | $136,049▲ | $110,129 |
| 75th Percentile | $191,437▲ | $191,261 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $210,248 | $213,814▲ |
| Total Employed | 220▲ | 24 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Yuma.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Yuma is $14,615 (9.69%). 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,Yuma spans $126,380. Yuma 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 4.58% more than Yuma ($153,044 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 Yuma if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,814)
- ✓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 55.2% growth in Yuma over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$147,120 (2021) → $161,220 (2025)
Yuma, AZ
$94,700 (2022) → $146,971 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Phoenix or Yuma?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Yuma?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Yuma as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Phoenix vs Yuma?
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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