Grand Rapids vs Taylor: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Taylor, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Taylor, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $144,134▲ | $140,249 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.30▲ | $67.43 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,598▲ | $81,344 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,777▲ | $102,661 |
| 75th Percentile | $184,492▲ | $178,143 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $210,569▲ | $199,260 |
| Total Employed | 48▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Taylor.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Taylor is $3,885 (2.77%). Grand Rapids's median is -5.10% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Grand Rapids spans $126,971,Taylor spans $117,916. Grand 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, Grand Rapids ($154,650 effective) pays 2.77% more than Taylor ($150,482 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,134/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($210,569)
- ✓Larger job market (48 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $154,650)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Taylor if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Grand Rapids grew 12.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.2% growth in Taylor over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$125,263 (2024) → $140,523 (2025)
Taylor, MI
$121,886 (2024) → $136,735 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Taylor, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Grand Rapids or Taylor?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Taylor?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Taylor as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Grand Rapids vs Taylor?
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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