Spokane vs University Place: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Spokane, WA and University Place, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Spokane, WA | University Place, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $165,404▲ | $159,972 |
| Hourly Rate | $79.52▲ | $76.91 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $95,935▲ | $92,784 |
| 25th Percentile | $119,091▲ | $115,180 |
| 75th Percentile | $211,718▲ | $198,853 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $256,377▲ | $233,101 |
| Total Employed | 56▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Spokane, WA offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to University Place.
The salary gap between Spokane and University Place is $5,432 (3.40%). Spokane's median is +8.90% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Spokane spans $160,442,University Place spans $140,317. Spokane 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, Spokane ($154,007 effective) pays 3.40% more than University Place ($148,950 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($165,404/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($256,377)
- ✓Larger job market (56 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $154,007)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose University Place if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Spokane grew -6.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -6.3% growth in University Place over the same period.
Spokane, WA
$172,063 (2024) → $161,260 (2025)
University Place, WA
$166,412 (2024) → $155,964 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Spokane, WA
University Place, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Spokane or University Place?
What is the hourly rate difference between Spokane and University Place?
Should I relocate from Spokane to University Place as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Spokane vs University Place?
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