Cedar Rapids vs Ottumwa: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Cedar Rapids, IA and Ottumwa, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cedar Rapids, IA | Ottumwa, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,079▲ | $123,585 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.50▲ | $59.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,606▲ | $73,219 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,097▲ | $91,629 |
| 75th Percentile | $169,062▲ | $155,184 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $195,588▲ | $169,882 |
| Total Employed | 22▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Cedar Rapids, IA offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ottumwa.
The salary gap between Cedar Rapids and Ottumwa is $8,494 (6.87%). Cedar Rapids's median is -13.04% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cedar Rapids spans $118,982,Ottumwa spans $96,663. Cedar Rapids 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, Cedar Rapids ($146,105 effective) pays 6.87% more than Ottumwa ($136,709 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,079/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($195,588)
- ✓Larger job market (22 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,105)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Ottumwa if…
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Cedar Rapids grew 11.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.9% growth in Ottumwa over the same period.
Cedar Rapids, IA
$115,060 (2024) → $128,770 (2025)
Ottumwa, IA
$107,660 (2024) → $120,488 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cedar Rapids, IA
Ottumwa, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Cedar Rapids or Ottumwa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cedar Rapids and Ottumwa?
Should I relocate from Cedar Rapids to Ottumwa as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Cedar Rapids vs Ottumwa?
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