Air Traffic Controller Salary in San Francisco (2025 Net Pay Calculator)

The Sovereign Outlook

Professionals operating as a Air Traffic Controller in San Francisco navigate a complex fiscal environment in 2025.The epicenter of global technology, offering the highest base salaries adjusted for a fiercely competitive housing market.

Based on our San Francisco index, a gross annual compensation of $232,000 typically results in a net take-home pay of approximately $165,612. This equates to roughly $13,801 per month in disposable income before housing and living expenses.

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Fiscal Context: United States

The United States employs a progressive federal tax system, with additional state and local taxes varying significantly by jurisdiction. Social Security and Medicare taxes are mandatory deductions.

Marginal Rate

39.6%

Tax on next unit of currency

Social Liability

$17,748

Mandatory contributions

Role Analysis: Air Traffic Controller

Manages national airspace safety with defined pension benefits and intense training.

Salary Projection Table

Gross Scenario	Net Outcome	Impact
$139,000	$104,931	75.5% Retained
$185,500	$136,713	73.7% Retained
$209,000	$151,732	72.6% Retained
$232,000	$165,612	Current Base
$255,000	$179,196	70.3% Retained
$278,500	$192,673	69.2% Retained
$325,000	$219,341	67.5% Retained
$464,000	$299,057	64.5% Retained

Career Path & Industry Context

The role of Air Traffic Controller represents a critical position within the Aviation sector, particularly in high-growth markets like San Francisco. Professionals in this field typically require a combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and industry-specific knowledge.

Manages national airspace safety with defined pension benefits and intense training.

The demand score of 77/100 indicates strongmarket demand for this role in San Francisco. This demand is driven by the city's status as a major business hub and concentration of leading companiesin the aviation sector.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Analysis

Understanding the true value of your salary requires analyzing purchasing power in San Francisco. With a cost of living index of 96 and a rent index of 98, San Francisco ranks among the more expensive cities globally.

Monthly Net Income

$13,801

After all taxes and deductions

Recommended Housing Budget

$4,140

30% of net income guideline

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary for a Air Traffic Controller in San Francisco?↓

Based on our analysis, the average salary for a Air Traffic Controller in San Francisco is approximately $232,000. This figure accounts for local market conditions, cost of living, and industry demand.

How much will I take home as a Air Traffic Controller in San Francisco?↓

After United States income tax and mandatory social contributions, a Air Traffic Controller earning $232,000 in San Francisco can expect to take home approximately $165,612 annually, or $13,801 per month.

What factors affect my net salary as a Air Traffic Controller in San Francisco?↓

Your net salary is affected by United States's progressive tax brackets, mandatory social security contributions ($17,748), filing status, and any applicable deductions. The effective tax rate for this income level is 28.6%.

Is $232,000 a good salary for a Air Traffic Controller in San Francisco?↓

With a cost of living index of 96, San Francisco is considered a high-cost jurisdiction. A net income of $165,612 provides strong purchasing power and comfortable living standards in San Francisco.

Methodology Note

Figures presented are estimates based on the 2025 fiscal year tax codes for United States. Actual tax liability depends on individual circumstances, filing status, and specific deductions.

View Full Methodology