Charlotte vs Sanford: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Charlotte, NC and Sanford, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charlotte, NC | Sanford, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $150,630▲ | $135,512 |
| Hourly Rate | $72.41▲ | $65.15 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,365▲ | $78,597 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,453▲ | $97,569 |
| 75th Percentile | $192,807▲ | $172,036 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $222,964▲ | $190,877 |
| Total Employed | 148▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Charlotte, NC offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sanford.
The salary gap between Charlotte and Sanford is $15,118 (11.16%). Charlotte's median is -0.83% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charlotte spans $135,599,Sanford spans $112,280. Charlotte 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, Charlotte ($160,929 effective) pays 11.16% more than Sanford ($144,778 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charlotte if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($150,630/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($222,964)
- ✓Larger job market (148 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $160,929)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Sanford if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Charlotte grew 3.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 3.7% growth in Sanford over the same period.
Charlotte, NC
$141,560 (2024) → $146,856 (2025)
Sanford, NC
$127,353 (2024) → $132,117 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Sanford, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Charlotte or Sanford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charlotte and Sanford?
Should I relocate from Charlotte to Sanford as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Charlotte vs Sanford?
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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