Minneapolis vs Winona: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Minneapolis, MN and Winona, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Minneapolis, MN | Winona, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $184,288▲ | $141,781 |
| Hourly Rate | $88.60▲ | $68.17 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $101,780▲ | $82,233 |
| 25th Percentile | $143,116▲ | $102,083 |
| 75th Percentile | $208,207▲ | $178,708 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $227,705▲ | $197,594 |
| Total Employed | 620▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for air traffic controllers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Winona.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Winona is $42,507 (29.98%). Minneapolis's median is +21.33% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $125,925,Winona spans $115,361. Minneapolis 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, Minneapolis ($175,810 effective) pays 22.14% more than Winona ($143,940 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($184,288/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($227,705)
- ✓Larger job market (620 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $175,810)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Winona if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Minneapolis grew 27.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.3% growth in Winona over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$141,370 (2019) → $179,670 (2025)
Winona, MN
$132,553 (2024) → $138,229 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Winona, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Minneapolis or Winona?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Winona?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Winona as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Minneapolis vs Winona?
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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