Sterling Heights vs Waterford: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Sterling Heights, MI and Waterford, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Sterling Heights, MI | Waterford, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $144,523▲ | $138,141 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.48▲ | $66.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,823▲ | $80,122 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,056▲ | $99,462 |
| 75th Percentile | $183,969▲ | $176,820 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,775▲ | $200,884 |
| Total Employed | 29▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Sterling Heights, MI offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterford.
The salary gap between Sterling Heights and Waterford is $6,382 (4.62%). 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,Waterford spans $120,762. 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 4.62% more than Waterford ($148,220 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 Waterford 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 Waterford over the same period.
Sterling Heights, MI
$125,601 (2024) → $140,902 (2025)
Waterford, MI
$120,055 (2024) → $134,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sterling Heights, MI
Waterford, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Sterling Heights or Waterford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Sterling Heights and Waterford?
Should I relocate from Sterling Heights to Waterford as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Sterling Heights vs Waterford?
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