Air Traffic Controller Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $305,015 | +55.0% | High |
| San Diego | $291,240 | +48.0% | High |
| San Jose | $338,468 | +72.0% | High |
| San Francisco | $364,050 | +85.0% | High |
| Fresno | $212,527 | +8.0% | High |
| Sacramento | $240,076 | +22.0% | High |
| Long Beach | $285,337 | +45.0% | High |
| Bakersfield | $212,527 | +8.0% | High |
| Anaheim | $279,433 | +42.0% | High |
| Santa Ana | $275,498 | +40.0% | High |
| Riverside | $251,884 | +28.0% | High |
| Stockton | $232,205 | +18.0% | High |
| Irvine | $305,015 | +55.0% | High |
| San Bernardino | $232,205 | +18.0% | High |
| Modesto | $220,398 | +12.0% | High |
| Fontana | $240,076 | +22.0% | High |
| Moreno Valley | $226,302 | +15.0% | High |
| Glendale | $291,240 | +48.0% | High |
| Fremont | $314,854 | +60.0% | High |
California is home to a very strong job market for Air Traffic Controllers. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $196,784 per year, California's Air Traffic Controller salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in California (index: 1.42) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in California can expect to earn $109,525–$141,617, while experienced Air Traffic Controllers can command $213,824–$241,005.
Looking ahead, the Air Traffic Controller profession in California is projected to grow at 2.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Technology continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Air Traffic Controller salary in California?The average Air Traffic Controller salary in California is $196,784 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $138,580.
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What city in California pays Air Traffic Controllers the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Air Traffic Controllers the highest wages in California due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is California a good state for Air Traffic Controllers?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Air Traffic Controller employment.
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How does California Air Traffic Controller salary compare to the US average?At $196,784/year, California Air Traffic Controller salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $138,580/year.