Flight Attendant Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $86,828 | |
| Washington | $83,960 | |
| Massachusetts | $79,451 | |
| California | $77,893 | |
| Colorado | $76,778 | |
| Maryland | $76,643 | |
| Hawaii | $74,866 | |
| New York | $74,726 | |
| National Median | $68,370 |
How to Become a Flight Attendant
Flight attendants provide routine services and respond to emergencies to ensure the safety and comfort of airline passengers.
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.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
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 $45,124 and rises toward $99,820 with experience.
Flight Attendant salary: common questions
How much does a Flight Attendant make an hour?
The median hourly wage for flight attendants is $32.87, which works out to about $68,370 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays flight attendants the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for flight attendants at $86,828 per year — 27% above the national median of $68,370.
What is the salary range for flight attendants?
Most flight attendants earn between $45,124 and $99,820 per year. The middle 50% earn $55,380 to $84,779, with a median of $68,370.
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 $68,370 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.