Sioux Falls vs Vermillion: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Sioux Falls, SD and Vermillion, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Sioux Falls, SD | Vermillion, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,756▲ | $121,264 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.83▲ | $58.30 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,998▲ | $70,358 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,585▲ | $88,829 |
| 75th Percentile | $169,928▲ | $153,828 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,097▲ | $165,051 |
| Total Employed | 36▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Sioux Falls, SD offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Vermillion.
The salary gap between Sioux Falls and Vermillion is $11,492 (9.48%). Sioux Falls's median is -12.59% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Sioux Falls spans $124,099,Vermillion spans $94,693. Sioux Falls 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, Sioux Falls ($143,056 effective) pays 9.48% more than Vermillion ($130,672 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Sioux Falls if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,756/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($201,097)
- ✓Larger job market (36 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,056)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Vermillion if…
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Sioux Falls grew 19.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.9% growth in Vermillion over the same period.
Sioux Falls, SD
$107,912 (2024) → $129,430 (2025)
Vermillion, SD
$98,571 (2024) → $118,226 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sioux Falls, SD
Vermillion, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Sioux Falls or Vermillion?
What is the hourly rate difference between Sioux Falls and Vermillion?
Should I relocate from Sioux Falls to Vermillion as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Sioux Falls vs Vermillion?
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