Senior Air Traffic Controller Salary in Chico, CA: $256,193 (2026)
Quick Answer:The top tier of air traffic controllers working in Chico, CA — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $256,193/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 53-2021. Strip back Chico's price premium (BEA RPP 113.1, 13% above national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $226,519 in average-cost America. The 49% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
Within the air traffic control profession, the potential for senior-level earnings in Chico, California, is substantial, particularly for those with significant experience. In 2026, top earners are projected to make $256,193, with the 75th percentile sitting at $219,993. This represents a considerable difference when compared to the median annual salary of $171,869 for air traffic controllers in the area. Achieving this senior level compensation requires not only extensive experience—typically seven years or more—but also advanced certifications and specialized training. Those who rise to the top tier often navigate complex and demanding operational environments, primarily found within en route centers or those managing international traffic, thereby capitalizing on the experience premium.
About the Chico Market
Salary estimated from California average ($180,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Chico
Experienced air traffic controllers at the top of the pay scale in Chico earn between $219,993 and $256,193 per year (2026 est.). This $156,508 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Chico median of $171,869 sits 13.16% above the US median.
Top ATC Salary Comparison
| Level | Chico | National |
|---|---|---|
| Median (P50) | $171,869 | $151,886 |
| 75th Percentile | $219,993 | $195,468 |
| 90th Percentile (Top 10%) | $256,193 | $221,151 |
In Chico, experienced air traffic controllers (P90) earn 49.06% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.
What Drives Top Air Traffic Controller Pay in Chico
Advanced Certifications in California
CA air traffic controllers with additional specialty certifications within the aviation field earn significantly above the $171,869 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Chico employers.
Specialty Focus
Air Traffic Controllers focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the aviation field in Chico command premium compensation, often reaching the $219,993–$256,193 range.
Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience
Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Chico metro area often pay above-market rates for experienced air traffic controllers who demonstrate efficiency and leadership.
Employer Loyalty & Patient Relationships
Long-tenured air traffic controllers in Chico with established relationships have strong negotiating leverage. In this developing market, retention bonuses and annual raises are common for top performers.
Continuing Education & Leadership
Air Traffic Controllers in California who pursue advanced degrees, mentor junior staff, or lead clinical education programs position themselves for the highest compensation tiers and management roles.
Air Traffic Controller Career & Wage Growth Path in Chico
Clinical Air Traffic Controller
0-5 yearsSenior/Lead Air Traffic Controller
5-10 yearsAir Traffic Controller Department Manager
10+ yearsEducator / Specialty Leadership
AdvancedChico ranks #57 of 156 California cities for top earner air traffic controller salary (90th percentile: $256,193).
Top 10% air traffic controller compensation in Chico ($256,193) is 2.49% above the California average P90 ($249,966).
2019 BLS Actual
$204,258
2025 BLS Actual
$249,774
2026 Current Est.
$256,193
2019–2027 Growth
+28.6%
Salary Trajectory for Air Traffic Controllers in Chico (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 2.57% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $204,258 | Actual |
| 2020 | $214,059 | Actual |
| 2021 | $215,461 | Actual |
| 2022 | $219,874 | Actual |
| 2023 | $232,837 | Actual |
| 2024 | $303,466 | Actual |
| 2025 | $249,774 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $256,193 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $262,777 | Projected |
Top-earning air traffic controllers (90th percentile) in Chico saw their compensation grow 22.3% from $204,258 in 2019 to $249,774 in 2025, based on 7 years of BLS OEWS data for this metropolitan area. At a 2.57% annual growth rate, senior-level pay is projected to reach $262,777 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Chico metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 2.57% CAGR derived from 7-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Maximizing Your Air Traffic Controller Earnings in Chico
Compensation for experienced air traffic controllers can vary greatly based on specialization and employment type, especially in Chico. For example, roles focused on en route and radar control typically command the highest salaries due to their complexity and responsibility. Senior controllers in FAA en route centers manage high-altitude traffic, while those at FAA terminal radar approach control facilities handle coordinated traffic around major airports. Additionally, military experience can lead to a seamless transition into civilian roles, offering a unique advantage. As personnel progress through various roles—from developmental controllers to traffic management coordinators and ultimately to operations supervisors or facility managers—they can also earn substantial benefits like shift differentials and overtime pay. Holding advanced credentials further enhances earning potential, particularly when considering the competitive local job market, characterized by chronic understaffing and an age limit for entry that necessitates strategic career planning.
More salary data for Chico, CA:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do experienced air traffic controllers make in Chico in 2026?
What drives higher air traffic controller pay in Chico?
What certifications boost air traffic controller salary in Chico?
Can experienced air traffic controllers make six figures in Chico?
How much does air traffic controller salary increase over time in Chico?
Related Pages
Compare Salaries
Career Resources
Nearby Cities in California
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
Top-earner salary figures on this page are 2026 projections derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. BLS reported a 90th percentile salary of $249,774 for air traffic controllers in the Chico metro area. A 2.57% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), calculated from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 senior-level compensation. Individual earnings depend on certifications, specialization, practice type, and years of clinical experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Chico is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.57%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for air traffic controllers (SOC 53-2021).
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, ATO, a licensed air traffic controller with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov