verified BLS-Verified Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2025 release

Flight Attendant Salary

Median Annual Salary
$63,580/yr
Median Hourly Wage
/hr

Salary Distribution (10th to 90th Percentile)

trending_up 10-Yr Growth
+11% Much faster than average
school Entry Education
High school diploma or equivalent
work Total Jobs (U.S.)
131,650

Estimated Pay by Experience Level

Entry-Level (10th Pct)
$35,110
—/hr
Median
Mid-Level (50th Pct)
$63,580
—/hr
Senior-Level (90th Pct)
$136,430
—/hr

Salary by State

Median annual
StateMedian / yrRelative pay
New York $126,650
Utah $82,730
California $82,170
Georgia $78,320
Connecticut $78,180
Washington $74,090
Michigan $62,490
Ohio $62,440
National Median $63,580

View all 19 states arrow_forward

How to Become a Flight Attendant

Flight attendants provide routine services and respond to emergencies to ensure the safety and comfort of airline passengers.

1

Meet the education requirement

Most flight attendants enter the field with high school diploma or equivalent. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.

2

Complete an accredited training program

Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.

3

Earn the FAA Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency

Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $35,110 and rises toward $136,430 with experience.

Flight Attendant salary: common questions

How much does a Flight Attendant make an hour?

The median hourly wage for flight attendants is —, which works out to about $63,580 per year for full-time work.

Which state pays flight attendants the most?

New York has the highest median pay for flight attendants at $126,650 per year — 99% above the national median of $63,580.

What is the salary range for flight attendants?

Most flight attendants earn between $35,110 and $136,430 per year. The middle 50% earn $51,760 to $95,640, with a median of $63,580.

Is becoming a Flight Attendant a good career?

Employment is projected to grow 11% (much faster than average), and the role typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. With a median wage of $63,580 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.

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