Trenton vs West Orange: Air Traffic Controller Salary (2026)
Compare air traffic controller salaries between Trenton, NJ and West Orange, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Trenton, NJ | West Orange, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $173,461 | $174,940▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $83.40 | $84.11▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $100,608 | $101,465▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $125,391 | $125,957▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $218,746 | $223,563▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $261,156▲ | $247,961 |
| Total Employed | 21▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Trenton and West Orange are closely matched on overall air traffic controller compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Trenton and West Orange is $1,479 (0.85%). West Orange's median is +15.18% compared to the US national median of $151,886.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Trenton spans $160,548,West Orange spans $146,496. Trenton 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, West Orange ($151,858 effective) pays 0.85% more than Trenton ($150,574 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Trenton if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($261,156)
- ✓Larger job market (21 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose West Orange if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($174,940/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $151,858)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, air traffic controller salaries in Trenton grew 0.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 0.9% growth in West Orange over the same period.
Trenton, NJ
$167,637 (2024) → $169,115 (2025)
West Orange, NJ
$169,066 (2024) → $170,557 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Trenton, NJ
West Orange, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays air traffic controllers more: Trenton or West Orange?
What is the hourly rate difference between Trenton and West Orange?
Should I relocate from Trenton to West Orange as a air traffic controller?
What do entry-level air traffic controllers earn in Trenton vs West Orange?
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