Fastest-growing major Florida metro, finance + healthcare. Here's how Controllers in Tampa get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Tampa metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $116,200 | $88,300 | $151,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $144,500 | $109,700 | $187,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $166,100 | $126,200 | $215,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $199,300 | $151,400 | $259,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $225,800 | $171,600 | $293,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Controllers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Tampa metro economy.
The average Controller salary in the Tampa metro is $166,100 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $126,200 to $215,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $274,000 or more.
Yes — Tampa pays +0% relative to the Florida 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.
Tampa vs. national: +2%. Tampa pays roughly in line with the national average for Controllers. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Tampa, the median Controller salary of $166,100 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Controllers in Tampa start around $116,200, while seniors (10+ years) reach $199,300 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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