Madison vs Waukesha: Flight Attendant Salary (2026)
Compare flight attendant salaries between Madison, WI and Waukesha, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | Waukesha, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,095▲ | $62,062 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.34▲ | $29.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,595▲ | $35,996 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,904▲ | $49,306 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,762▲ | $79,439 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $97,798▲ | $96,196 |
| Total Employed | 64▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for flight attendants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waukesha.
The salary gap between Madison and Waukesha is $1,033 (1.66%). Madison's median is -2.22% compared to the US national median of $64,527.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Madison spans $61,203,Waukesha spans $60,200. Madison 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, Madison ($67,554 effective) pays 1.66% more than Waukesha ($66,448 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,095/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($97,798)
- ✓Larger job market (64 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,554)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Waukesha if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, flight attendant salaries in Madison grew 12.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.6% growth in Waukesha over the same period.
Madison, WI
$55,210 (2024) → $62,169 (2025)
Waukesha, WI
$54,306 (2024) → $61,151 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
Waukesha, WI
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