Ann Arbor vs Grand Rapids: Flight Attendant Salary (2026)
Compare flight attendant salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,614▲ | $61,235 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.62▲ | $29.44 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $35,736▲ | $35,516 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,596▲ | $47,843 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,866▲ | $78,381 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $95,501▲ | $94,914 |
| Total Employed | 24 | 48▲ |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for flight attendants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Grand Rapids.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids is $379 (0.62%). Ann Arbor's median is -4.51% compared to the US national median of $64,527.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $59,765,Grand Rapids spans $59,398. Ann Arbor 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, Ann Arbor ($66,109 effective) pays 0.62% more than Grand Rapids ($65,703 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,614/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($95,501)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $66,109)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Larger job market (48 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, flight attendant salaries in Ann Arbor grew 6.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.0% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$57,290 (2024) → $60,709 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$56,938 (2024) → $60,336 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA
Career Analyst
Emily Johnson has 10 years of experience as a flight attendant. She specializes in passenger safety and service. She has worked for major airlines in the United States.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.49% 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 Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA, a licensed flight attendant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov