Sterling Heights vs Troy: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Sterling Heights, MI and Troy, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Sterling Heights, MI | Troy, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $144,523▲ | $142,435 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.48▲ | $68.48 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,823▲ | $82,612 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,056▲ | $102,554 |
| 75th Percentile | $183,969▲ | $182,316 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,775▲ | $206,809 |
| Total Employed | 29▲ | 20 |
Verdict
Sterling Heights, MI offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Troy.
The salary gap between Sterling Heights and Troy is $2,088 (1.47%). Sterling Heights's median is -4.85% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Sterling Heights spans $137,952,Troy spans $124,197. Sterling Heights 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, Sterling Heights ($155,068 effective) pays 1.47% more than Troy ($152,827 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Sterling Heights if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,523/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($221,775)
- ✓Larger job market (29 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $155,068)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Troy if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Sterling Heights grew 12.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.2% growth in Troy over the same period.
Sterling Heights, MI
$125,601 (2024) → $140,902 (2025)
Troy, MI
$123,786 (2024) → $138,866 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sterling Heights, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Sterling Heights or Troy?
What is the hourly rate difference between Sterling Heights and Troy?
Should I relocate from Sterling Heights to Troy as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Sterling Heights vs Troy?
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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