Princeton vs Trenton: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Princeton, NJ and Trenton, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Princeton, NJ | Trenton, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $174,530▲ | $173,461 |
| Hourly Rate | $83.91▲ | $83.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $101,227▲ | $100,608 |
| 25th Percentile | $125,662▲ | $125,391 |
| 75th Percentile | $218,781▲ | $218,746 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $240,390 | $261,156▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 21▲ |
Verdict
Princeton and Trenton are closely matched on overall air traffic controller compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Princeton and Trenton is $1,069 (0.62%). Princeton's median is +14.91% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Princeton spans $139,163,Trenton spans $160,548. Trenton 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, Princeton ($151,502 effective) pays 0.62% more than Trenton ($150,574 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Princeton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($174,530/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $151,502)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Trenton if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($261,156)
- ✓Larger job market (21 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Princeton grew 0.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 0.9% growth in Trenton over the same period.
Princeton, NJ
$168,669 (2024) → $170,157 (2025)
Trenton, NJ
$167,637 (2024) → $169,115 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Princeton, NJ
Trenton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Princeton or Trenton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Princeton and Trenton?
Should I relocate from Princeton to Trenton as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Princeton vs Trenton?
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