Actuaries vs. Airfield Operations Specialists: Who Earns More?
Actuaries out-earn Airfield Operations Specialists by $73K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Actuaries land at $130,000 and Airfield Operations Specialists at $56,850. The education gap is real: actuary programs typically require bachelor's degree, while airfield operations specialist programs require no formal educational credential. Top-paying state for Actuaries is Connecticut ($166,800); for Airfield Operations Specialists it's Kentucky ($123,290).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Actuaries median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Actuaries or Airfield Operations Specialists?
Actuaries earn more nationally. The median is $130,000 for Actuaries versus $56,850 for Airfield Operations Specialists, a difference of $73K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Actuaries or Airfield Operations Specialists?
Actuaries has the better 10-year outlook at 21.8% projected growth, compared to 4.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Actuaries or Airfield Operations Specialists?
Actuaries typically requires bachelor's degree. Airfield Operations Specialists requires no formal educational credential. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Actuaries get paid the most?
Connecticut is the top-paying state for Actuaries at $166,800/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Actuaries vs. Airfield Operations Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Alabama, Actuaries earn $136,950 vs. $78,590 for Airfield Operations Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.