Acupuncturists vs. Air Traffic Controllers: Who Earns More?
Air Traffic Controllers out-earn Acupuncturists by $72K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Acupuncturists land at $76,040 and Air Traffic Controllers at $148,080. The education gap is real: acupuncturist programs typically require master's degree, while air traffic controller programs require no formal educational credential. Top-paying state for Acupuncturists is Tennessee ($141,430); for Air Traffic Controllers it's Virginia ($191,820).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Acupuncturists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Acupuncturists or Air Traffic Controllers?
Air Traffic Controllers earn more nationally. The median is $76,040 for Acupuncturists versus $148,080 for Air Traffic Controllers, a difference of $72K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Acupuncturists or Air Traffic Controllers?
Acupuncturists has the better 10-year outlook at 6.8% projected growth, compared to 1.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Acupuncturists or Air Traffic Controllers?
Acupuncturists typically requires master's degree. Air Traffic Controllers requires no formal educational credential. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Acupuncturists get paid the most?
Tennessee is the top-paying state for Acupuncturists at $141,430/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Acupuncturists vs. Air Traffic Controllers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Tennessee, Acupuncturists earn $141,430 vs. $157,330 for Air Traffic Controllers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.