Tucson vs Mesa: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Tucson, AZ and Mesa, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tucson, AZ | Mesa, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $163,974 | $164,563▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $78.84 | $79.11▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $95,105 | $95,447▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $118,061 | $118,486▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $209,886 | $210,641▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $249,023▲ | $243,118 |
| Total Employed | 137▲ | 98 |
Verdict
Tucson and Mesa are closely matched on overall air traffic controller compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Tucson and Mesa is $589 (0.36%). Mesa's median is +8.35% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tucson spans $153,918,Mesa spans $147,671. Tucson 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, Mesa ($167,069 effective) pays 0.36% more than Tucson ($166,471 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($249,023)
- ✓Larger job market (137 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Mesa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($164,563/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $167,069)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Tucson grew 96.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.8% growth in Mesa over the same period.
Tucson, AZ
$81,250 (2019) → $159,865 (2025)
Mesa, AZ
$146,094 (2024) → $160,440 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Tucson or Mesa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Tucson and Mesa?
Should I relocate from Tucson to Mesa as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Tucson vs Mesa?
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