Tampa vs Orlando: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Tampa, FL and Orlando, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tampa, FL | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $154,573▲ | $151,598 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.31▲ | $72.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $91,595▲ | $90,528 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,781 | $117,299▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $183,005▲ | $179,764 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $190,965 | $200,996▲ |
| Total Employed | 110 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Tampa and Orlando are closely matched on overall air traffic controller compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Tampa and Orlando is $2,975 (1.96%). Tampa's median is +1.77% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tampa spans $99,370,Orlando spans $110,468. Orlando 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, Tampa ($153,209 effective) pays 2.50% more than Orlando ($149,478 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($154,573/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $153,209)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($200,996)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Tampa grew 26.4% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 9.3% growth in Orlando over the same period.
Tampa, FL
$119,230 (2021) → $150,700 (2025)
Orlando, FL
$135,240 (2021) → $147,800 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Tampa or Orlando?
What is the hourly rate difference between Tampa and Orlando?
Should I relocate from Tampa to Orlando as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Tampa vs Orlando?
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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