Cleveland vs Columbus: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Cleveland, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cleveland, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $146,726▲ | $145,919 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.54▲ | $70.16 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,101▲ | $84,634 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,643▲ | $105,061 |
| 75th Percentile | $187,810▲ | $186,777 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $217,062 | $226,175▲ |
| Total Employed | 57 | 161▲ |
Verdict
Cleveland and Columbus are closely matched on overall air traffic controller compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Cleveland and Columbus is $807 (0.55%). Cleveland's median is -3.40% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cleveland spans $131,961,Columbus spans $141,541. Columbus 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, Cleveland ($161,771 effective) pays 0.55% more than Columbus ($160,881 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cleveland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($146,726/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $161,771)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($226,175)
- ✓Larger job market (161 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Cleveland grew -1.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.2% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Cleveland, OH
$144,480 (2019) → $143,050 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$126,814 (2024) → $142,263 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cleveland, OH
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Cleveland or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cleveland and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Cleveland to Columbus as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Cleveland vs Columbus?
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