Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Controllers in Los Angeles get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Los Angeles metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $150,400 | $114,300 | $195,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $186,900 | $142,000 | $243,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $214,900 | $163,300 | $279,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $257,800 | $195,900 | $335,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $292,200 | $222,000 | $379,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Controllers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Controller salary in the Los Angeles metro is $214,900 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $163,300 to $279,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $354,600 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays +0% relative to the California state median for Controllers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Los Angeles vs. national: +32%. That puts Los Angeles among the stronger US markets for Controllers — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Controller salary of $214,900 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Controllers in Los Angeles start around $150,400, while seniors (10+ years) reach $257,800 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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