Southwest Airlines

ATL · AUS · BWI · DAL · DEN · HOU · LAS · LAX · BNA · MCO · MDW · OAK · PHX

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Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 — Photo (resized and cropped): Liam Thompson / CC BY-SA 4.0

Company

Airline headquartered in the USA. Founded 1967. Pilot bases include Atlanta (ATL), Austin (AUS) and Baltimore (BWI). Fleet includes the B737-700, B737-800 and B737 MAX 8.

Aircraft in service: 817 aircraft

Company details3 facts · Fleet · Sources

Founded: 1967
Headquarters: United States
Aircraft in service: 817 aircraft6 February 2024

FleetTypes listed by the airline

B737-700
B737-800
B737 MAX 8

SourcesSouthwest Airlines “FAQs”Southwest Airlines “Company Information”Southwest Airlines “Form 10-K 2023”

Pay

Taxed (United States)

Southwest Airlines Captain, estimated annual pay

$450K

Southwest Airlines First Officer, estimated annual pay

$292K

Our estimate

Submitted payREAL PAY

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Who it covers, what’s included, and when

Captain: Year-12 737 captain at $343.14 per TFP × 1,080 TFP a year (90 a month), plus 1.10% profit sharing and 20% retirement.As of: Pay table from January 2026; profit sharing for 2024
First Officer: Year-6 737 F/O at $222.73 per TFP × 1,080 TFP a year (90 a month), plus 1.10% profit sharing and 20% retirement.As of: Pay table from January 2026; profit sharing for 2024

SourcesALPA Delta MEC, “pilot contract COMPARISON”Pay rates effective 1 January 2026 · checked 29 October 2026Travelohlic, “Highest Paid Airline Pilots in the World”Published 21 September 2026 · checked 29 October 2026

Pilot ratings

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Company CultureCompensationBenefitsWork-Life BalanceOperationsTraining

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Base pay by year of service

Contract pay scale · January 2026

First Officer

+91%over 12 years

Year 1 $136K
Year 12 $259K

Captain

+9%over 12 years

Year 1 $340K
Year 12 $371K

Year of serviceTap a year to see the pay

Year 6

First Officer

$240K

+$5Kvs. the year before

Captain

$354K

+$2.5Kvs. the year before

Rate per TFP × 90 TFP a month × 12 months, base pay only. Profit sharing, per diem and company retirement contributions are not included.

Pay and benefit terms

Researched 2 November 2026

Monthly guarantee: 84 TFP in 28/29-day months, 87 TFP in 30-day months, 89 TFP in 31-day monthsUnion comparison data
Per diemReference: USD 3.04 an hour domestic, USD 3.63 international2026 rates, worked out as 2025 rates plus the 2.5% contract increase
Premiums: Premium flying at 150%, 200% or 300%. Add-ons such as 3% international, 5% ETOPS, 3% nightQualifying trips only, not across all TFP
Deadhead pay: 100% credit for every deadhead legPilot careers page
Contract: Across-the-board raises of 4% on Jan 1, 2027 and 3.25% on Jan 1, 2028. Amendable Jan 1, 2029
Parental leave: Maternity: 6 paid weeks (8 after a C-section). Parental: 2 paid weeks plus up to 10 unpaid. Unpaid bonding leave can run to 1 year after birth or placementPilot careers page. Unused sick and vacation can cover the unpaid weeks
Disability cover: Company-provided life and disability coveragePilot careers page
Medical exam costs: Company covers most of the cost of FAA medicals, plus an EKG when requiredPilot careers page
Passport renewal: Company helps pay for passport renewalPilot careers page
Pilot group sizeReference: More than 11,000 pilotsAs stated by the pilots' union

Summarized by PILOT VALUE from public union contracts and company and union materials.

Jobs

Airline’s careers page

Insurance: Medical, dental and life insurance for you and eligible dependants from day onePilot recruitment page
Staff travel: Travel benefits for you and eligible dependants from day one, plus jumpseat agreements with other airlinesPilot recruitment page
Parking: Designated employee parking is paid by the company (other parking is reimbursed up to a yearly cap)Pilot recruitment page
Pension: 18% company contributions plus a 2% market-based cash balance (2026)Pilot recruitment page
Applications: First officer applications are currently closed (checked 19 October 2026)Pilot recruitment page
Schedule bidding: You see the schedule before you bid (no PBS), and trips can be tradedPilot recruitment page
Training locations: LEAD Center in Dallas (initial training)Pilot recruitment page

Sources1

Southwest Airlines “Commercial Airline Pilot Opportunities”checked 19 October 2026

Duty

Schedule biddingJob ad

You see the schedule before you bid (no PBS), and trips can be traded

Pilot recruitment page · checked 19 October 2026

Answer anonymously

Benefits

InsuranceJob ad

Medical, dental and life insurance for you and eligible dependants from day one

Pilot recruitment page · checked 19 October 2026

Answer anonymously

Living

Johns Creek · Rent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included, 1-Bed

USD 1,920 a month (≈$1.9K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)" · FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Answer anonymously

Living

Where to liveAtlanta · ATL

Johns CreekGA 30097

A northeastern Atlanta suburb, 27 miles from downtown, that became a city in 2006 and is bounded to the south by the Chattahoochee River.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

ATLWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Peachtree CityGA 30269

A planned city south of Atlanta's airport, chartered in 1959, with over 100 miles of golf-cart paths and three lakes.

3-bedroom house listings (seen 2 November 2026, asking rents, not signed leases): USD 3,000 a month (1,900 sq ft) · USD 2,195 a month (1,404 sq ft) · USD 2,175 a month (1,400 sq ft)

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

ATLWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

NewnanGA 30265

The Coweta County seat, about 40 miles southwest of Atlanta, largely spared in the Civil War and rich in antebellum architecture.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

ATLWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

Johns CreekUSD 1,920 a month (≈$1.9K)
Peachtree CityUSD 1,990 a month (≈$2K)
NewnanUSD 1,700 a month (≈$1.7K)
0USD 3,000 (≈$3K)

2-Bed

Johns CreekUSD 2,090 a month (≈$2.1K)
Peachtree CityUSD 2,170 a month (≈$2.2K)
NewnanUSD 1,850 a month (≈$1.8K)
0USD 3,000 (≈$3K)

3-Bed

Johns CreekUSD 2,490 a month (≈$2.5K)
Peachtree CityUSD 2,590 a month (≈$2.6K)
NewnanUSD 2,200 a month (≈$2.2K)
0USD 3,000 (≈$3K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Where to liveAustin · AUS

LakewayTX 78734

A city beside Lake Travis, about 16 miles west of Austin, that began in the 1960s as a hotel and resort community.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusAUSBus Route 20: Austin airport → downtownAbout 35 minutes (as stated), every 15–30 minutes
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

BudaTX 78610

A fast-growing suburb on I-35, 15 miles southwest of downtown Austin, with a downtown that grew up along the railroad in the 1880s.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusAUSBus Route 20: Austin airport → downtownAbout 35 minutes (as stated), every 15–30 minutes
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

LakewayUSD 1,780 a month (≈$1.8K)
BudaUSD 1,590 a month (≈$1.6K)
0USD 3,000 (≈$3K)

2-Bed

LakewayUSD 2,110 a month (≈$2.1K)
BudaUSD 1,890 a month (≈$1.9K)
0USD 3,000 (≈$3K)

3-Bed

LakewayUSD 2,660 a month (≈$2.7K)
BudaUSD 2,380 a month (≈$2.4K)
0USD 3,000 (≈$3K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: Bus Route 20: Austin airport → downtownAbout 35 minutes (as stated), every 15–30 minutesCapMetro (Austin transit) airport information

Where to liveBaltimore · BWI

Severna ParkMD 21146

A waterside community southeast of BWI, between the Severn and Magothy rivers, with the B&A Trail, a former rail line, running through it.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

TrainBWILight Rail: BWI airport ⇄ BaltimoreConnects the airport with stops such as Camden, the Convention Center and Lexington Market
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Ellicott CityMD 21043

Howard County's seat, about 10 miles northwest of BWI, with a historic district in the Patapsco valley that began as a 1770s mill town.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

TrainBWILight Rail: BWI airport ⇄ BaltimoreConnects the airport with stops such as Camden, the Convention Center and Lexington Market
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

Severna ParkUSD 1,850 a month (≈$1.8K)
Ellicott CityUSD 2,010 a month (≈$2K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

2-Bed

Severna ParkUSD 2,290 a month (≈$2.3K)
Ellicott CityUSD 2,480 a month (≈$2.5K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

3-Bed

Severna ParkUSD 2,860 a month (≈$2.9K)
Ellicott CityUSD 3,100 a month (≈$3.1K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: Light Rail: BWI airport ⇄ BaltimoreConnects the airport with stops such as Camden, the Convention Center and Lexington MarketMaryland Transit Administration Light Rail stop list

Where to liveDallas–Fort Worth · DAL

Highland Park areaTX 75205

A residential town 4 miles (6 km) north of downtown Dallas, east of Love Field. With University Park, it forms the Park Cities.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

DALWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

SouthlakeTX 76092

A suburb northwest of DFW Airport, named for Grapevine Lake to its north, with the Southlake Town Square shopping district.

3-bedroom house listings (seen 2 November 2026, asking rents, not signed leases): USD 5,000 a month (2,628 sq ft) · USD 3,100 a month (1,816 sq ft)

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

DALWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

GrapevineTX 76051

A city that takes in part of DFW Airport, with a historic Main Street downtown, local wineries and Grapevine Lake next door.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

DALWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

Highland Park areaUSD 2,300 a month (≈$2.3K)
SouthlakeUSD 1,910 a month (≈$1.9K)
GrapevineUSD 1,950 a month (≈$2K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

2-Bed

Highland Park areaUSD 2,710 a month (≈$2.7K)
SouthlakeUSD 2,250 a month (≈$2.3K)
GrapevineUSD 2,300 a month (≈$2.3K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

3-Bed

Highland Park areaUSD 3,410 a month (≈$3.4K)
SouthlakeUSD 2,910 a month (≈$2.9K)
GrapevineUSD 3,010 a month (≈$3K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Where to liveDenver · DEN

Greenwood VillageCO 80111

A city south of Denver that grew with the Denver Technological Center office district and lies within the Cherry Creek School District.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

DENWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Reunion, Commerce City areaCO 80022

A master-planned community begun in 2001 in Commerce City, west of Denver's airport; the city is home to a large wildlife refuge.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

DENWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

Greenwood VillageUSD 2,190 a month (≈$2.2K)
Reunion, Commerce City areaUSD 1,600 a month (≈$1.6K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

2-Bed

Greenwood VillageUSD 2,590 a month (≈$2.6K)
Reunion, Commerce City areaUSD 1,890 a month (≈$1.9K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

3-Bed

Greenwood VillageUSD 3,400 a month (≈$3.4K)
Reunion, Commerce City areaUSD 2,480 a month (≈$2.5K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Where to liveHouston · HOU

West University PlaceTX 77005

A small residential city largely surrounded by Houston, near Rice University and the Texas Medical Center, nicknamed “The Neighborhood City.”

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusHOUMETRO bus 40: Hobby Airport → downtown HoustonAbout 1 hour
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Humble areaTX 77338

A city east of Houston’s IAH airport that boomed after oil was struck in 1904 and was home to Humble Oil, a forerunner of Exxon.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

HOUWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

The WoodlandsTX 77380

A planned community 28 miles north of Houston that kept much of its forest, with a canal-side walk, Market Street shops and bike trails.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

HOUWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

West University PlaceUSD 1,880 a month (≈$1.9K)
Humble areaUSD 1,240 a month (≈$1.2K)
The WoodlandsUSD 1,610 a month (≈$1.6K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

2-Bed

West University PlaceUSD 2,230 a month (≈$2.2K)
Humble areaUSD 1,470 a month (≈$1.5K)
The WoodlandsUSD 1,910 a month (≈$1.9K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

3-Bed

West University PlaceUSD 3,010 a month (≈$3K)
Humble areaUSD 1,980 a month (≈$2K)
The WoodlandsUSD 2,570 a month (≈$2.6K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: METRO bus 40: Hobby Airport → downtown HoustonAbout 1 hourHouston Airports ground transportation at Hobby

Where to liveLas Vegas · LAS

Summerlin South areaNV 89135

A master-planned community on the western edge of the Las Vegas Valley, next to Red Rock Canyon, home to Downtown Summerlin.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusLASRTC buses 108 and Red Line: Las Vegas airport Terminal 1From Terminal 3, take the terminal shuttle to Terminal 1
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Anthem, Henderson areaNV 89052

A master-planned community in Henderson, southeast of Las Vegas, opened in 1998 with a country club, golf courses and parks.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusLASRTC buses 108 and Red Line: Las Vegas airport Terminal 1From Terminal 3, take the terminal shuttle to Terminal 1
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

Summerlin South areaUSD 2,150 a month (≈$2.2K)
Anthem, Henderson areaUSD 1,790 a month (≈$1.8K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

2-Bed

Summerlin South areaUSD 2,530 a month (≈$2.5K)
Anthem, Henderson areaUSD 2,100 a month (≈$2.1K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

3-Bed

Summerlin South areaUSD 3,480 a month (≈$3.5K)
Anthem, Henderson areaUSD 2,890 a month (≈$2.9K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: RTC buses 108 and Red Line: Las Vegas airport Terminal 1From Terminal 3, take the terminal shuttle to Terminal 1Harry Reid International Airport (Clark County Department of Aviation) public bus information

Where to liveLos Angeles · LAX

Manhattan BeachCA 90266

A beach city south of LAX and El Segundo, with about 2 miles of wide sandy beach, a pier, and popular beach volleyball and surfing.

3-bedroom house listings (seen 2 November 2026, asking rents, not signed leases): USD 7,000 a month (1,080 sq ft) · USD 7,900 a month (1,400 sq ft) · USD 18,000 a month (1,831 sq ft)

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusLAXFlyAway: Union Station → LAXRuns daily (no cash; first come, first served)
BusLAXFlyAway: Van Nuys → LAXRuns daily (no cash; first come, first served)
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

El SegundoCA 90245

A city just south of LAX on Santa Monica Bay, long an aerospace hub and now home to many hardware and space startups.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusLAXFlyAway: Union Station → LAXRuns daily (no cash; first come, first served)
BusLAXFlyAway: Van Nuys → LAXRuns daily (no cash; first come, first served)
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

Manhattan BeachUSD 3,610 a month (≈$3.6K)
El SegundoUSD 3,440 a month (≈$3.4K)
0USD 6,000 (≈$6K)

2-Bed

Manhattan BeachUSD 4,450 a month (≈$4.4K)
El SegundoUSD 4,250 a month (≈$4.3K)
0USD 6,000 (≈$6K)

3-Bed

Manhattan BeachUSD 5,650 a month (≈$5.6K)
El SegundoUSD 5,390 a month (≈$5.4K)
0USD 6,000 (≈$6K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: FlyAway: Union Station → LAXRuns daily (no cash; first come, first served)Los Angeles World Airports “LAX FlyAway® Bus”
FlyAway: Van Nuys → LAXRuns daily (no cash; first come, first served)Los Angeles World Airports “LAX FlyAway® Bus”

Where to liveNashville · BNA

BrentwoodTN 37027

A residential suburb just south of Nashville on I-65, with many parks, including the 164-acre Crockett Park.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusBNABus Route 18: Nashville airport ⇄ WeGo CentralAbout 20 minutes express, 35–45 minutes local
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Mount JulietTN 37122

A Nashville suburb about 9 miles east of the airport on I-40, between Old Hickory and Percy Priest lakes, with a commuter rail stop.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusBNABus Route 18: Nashville airport ⇄ WeGo CentralAbout 20 minutes express, 35–45 minutes local
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

BrentwoodUSD 2,290 a month (≈$2.3K)
Mount JulietUSD 2,090 a month (≈$2.1K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

2-Bed

BrentwoodUSD 2,500 a month (≈$2.5K)
Mount JulietUSD 2,280 a month (≈$2.3K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

3-Bed

BrentwoodUSD 3,210 a month (≈$3.2K)
Mount JulietUSD 2,930 a month (≈$2.9K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: Bus Route 18: Nashville airport ⇄ WeGo CentralAbout 20 minutes express, 35–45 minutes localWeGo Public Transit Q&A (airport service)

Where to liveOrlando / Sanford · MCO

Winter ParkFL 32789

North of Orlando, set among a chain of lakes linked by canals, with brick streets under old oaks and Rollins College.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusMCOLYNX buses: Orlando International AirportRoutes 11, 42, 51, 311, 407 and 436S serve the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Lake Nona areaFL 32827

A large planned community within Orlando, southeast of MCO airport, home to a Medical City that includes UCF’s College of Medicine.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

BusMCOLYNX buses: Orlando International AirportRoutes 11, 42, 51, 311, 407 and 436S serve the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Lake MaryFL 32746

A suburban city 19 miles (31 km) north of downtown Orlando and west of Sanford airport, with a SunRail station and the Cross Seminole Trail.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

MCOWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

Winter ParkUSD 1,760 a month (≈$1.8K)
Lake Nona areaUSD 2,280 a month (≈$2.3K)
Lake MaryUSD 2,010 a month (≈$2K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

2-Bed

Winter ParkUSD 2,000 a month (≈$2K)
Lake Nona areaUSD 2,590 a month (≈$2.6K)
Lake MaryUSD 2,280 a month (≈$2.3K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

3-Bed

Winter ParkUSD 2,500 a month (≈$2.5K)
Lake Nona areaUSD 3,230 a month (≈$3.2K)
Lake MaryUSD 2,850 a month (≈$2.8K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: LYNX buses: Orlando International AirportRoutes 11, 42, 51, 311, 407 and 436S serve the airportLYNX (Orlando transit) popular destinations

Where to liveChicago · MDW

HinsdaleIL 60521

A village 15 miles west of the Chicago Loop whose historic downtown, with shops and a Metra station, is on the National Register.

3-bedroom house listings (seen 2 November 2026, asking rents, not signed leases): USD 3,395 a month · USD 6,000 a month (2,120 sq ft) · USD 3,200 a month (1,630 sq ft)

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

TrainMDWCTA Orange Line: Midway Airport → downtown Chicago (the Loop)Usually about 20–25 minutes (no service at night; replacement bus N62)
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Oak LawnIL 60453

A village bordering Chicago's southwest side, south of Midway Airport, and home to Advocate Christ Medical Center, a Level I trauma center.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

TrainMDWCTA Orange Line: Midway Airport → downtown Chicago (the Loop)Usually about 20–25 minutes (no service at night; replacement bus N62)
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

Park RidgeIL 60068

A residential city just northeast of O'Hare whose best-known landmark is the Art Deco Pickwick Theatre, built in 1928.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

MDWWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

HinsdaleUSD 2,360 a month (≈$2.4K)
Oak LawnUSD 1,640 a month (≈$1.6K)
Park RidgeUSD 1,850 a month (≈$1.8K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

2-Bed

HinsdaleUSD 2,670 a month (≈$2.7K)
Oak LawnUSD 1,850 a month (≈$1.8K)
Park RidgeUSD 2,090 a month (≈$2.1K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

3-Bed

HinsdaleUSD 3,430 a month (≈$3.4K)
Oak LawnUSD 2,380 a month (≈$2.4K)
Park RidgeUSD 2,690 a month (≈$2.7K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: CTA Orange Line: Midway Airport → downtown Chicago (the Loop)Usually about 20–25 minutes (no service at night; replacement bus N62)Chicago Transit Authority airport information

Where to liveSan Francisco Bay Area · OAK

AlamedaCA 94502

Bay Farm Island, the part of Alameda next to Oakland Airport: homes around lagoons and parks, with a greenbelt running around the shore.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

TrainOAKBART: Coliseum station → Oakland International AirportChange at Coliseum to the airport connector
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

San MateoCA 94402

About 20 miles (32 km) south of San Francisco and southeast of SFO, with a downtown of more than 800 shops and restaurants.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

OAKWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

BurlingameCA 94010

Just south of SFO on San Francisco Bay, Burlingame calls itself the City of Trees for its more than 18,000 public trees.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

OAKWe have not been able to confirm sources for travel times and transport to the airport
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

AlamedaUSD 2,520 a month (≈$2.5K)
San MateoUSD 3,360 a month (≈$3.4K)
BurlingameUSD 3,150 a month (≈$3.2K)
0USD 5,500 (≈$5.5K)

2-Bed

AlamedaUSD 3,060 a month (≈$3.1K)
San MateoUSD 4,070 a month (≈$4.1K)
BurlingameUSD 3,880 a month (≈$3.9K)
0USD 5,500 (≈$5.5K)

3-Bed

AlamedaUSD 3,900 a month (≈$3.9K)
San MateoUSD 5,200 a month (≈$5.2K)
BurlingameUSD 5,070 a month (≈$5.1K)
0USD 5,500 (≈$5.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: BART: Coliseum station → Oakland International AirportChange at Coliseum to the airport connectorBART Coliseum station information

Where to livePhoenix / Mesa · PHX

Paradise ValleyAZ 85253

A town between Phoenix and Scottsdale, north of Camelback Mountain, known for homes on one-to-five-acre lots and its golf courses.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

TrainPHXPHX Sky Train: 44th Street station → Phoenix Sky Harbor AirportConnects at 44th Street with Valley Metro Rail (to Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa)
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

ChandlerAZ 85286

An East Valley city 22 miles (35 km) southeast of downtown Phoenix and a tech hub, with major sites for Intel and other companies.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

TrainPHXPHX Sky Train: 44th Street station → Phoenix Sky Harbor AirportConnects at 44th Street with Valley Metro Rail (to Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa)
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

ScottsdaleAZ 85254

A city just east of Phoenix, with a historic Old Town and the 12-mile (19 km) Scottsdale Greenbelt linking city parks by bike path.

Getting to the airportBetween the station and the airport

TrainPHXPHX Sky Train: 44th Street station → Phoenix Sky Harbor AirportConnects at 44th Street with Valley Metro Rail (to Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa)
TaxiWe have not been able to confirm sources for fares or travel timesAdd the airline’s taxi rules

RentRent benchmark by ZIP code, utilities included · per month

1-Bed

Paradise ValleyUSD 1,940 a month (≈$1.9K)
ChandlerUSD 1,910 a month (≈$1.9K)
ScottsdaleUSD 1,860 a month (≈$1.9K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

2-Bed

Paradise ValleyUSD 2,250 a month (≈$2.3K)
ChandlerUSD 2,220 a month (≈$2.2K)
ScottsdaleUSD 2,160 a month (≈$2.2K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

3-Bed

Paradise ValleyUSD 3,030 a month (≈$3K)
ChandlerUSD 2,930 a month (≈$2.9K)
ScottsdaleUSD 2,880 a month (≈$2.9K)
0USD 3,500 (≈$3.5K)

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"FY2027 (from October 1, 2026)

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), "Small Area Fair Market Rents (FY2027)"
Conditions: HUD's Small Area Fair Market Rent for the ZIP code: the 40th percentile of standard rental housing in that ZIP, including set utilities. Not an average of listings and not luxury-home rents. ZIP areas do not match town borders ("area" towns). 1-Bed, 2-Bed and 3-Bed are bedrooms
Yen amounts are converted for comparison at 1 USD = 158.95 JPY as of 2026-08-22, and are not a current exchange rate.
As of: RentFY2027 (from October 1, 2026)
Getting there: PHX Sky Train: 44th Street station → Phoenix Sky Harbor AirportConnects at 44th Street with Valley Metro Rail (to Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa)City of Phoenix Aviation Department “Public Transportation | Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport”

Photo credits29

Peachtree CityPTCdude / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
NewnanJud McCranie / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
LakewayLarry D. Moore / CC BY 4.0 (resized and cropped)
BudaTravis K. Witt / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
Severna Parkformulanone / CC BY-SA 2.0 (resized and cropped)
Ellicott CityAcroterion / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
Highland Park areaAnsem27 at the English-language Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0 (resized and cropped)
SouthlakeFredlyfish4 / CC BY-SA 3.0 (resized and cropped)
GrapevineRenelibrary / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
Greenwood VillageJared Winkler / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
Reunion, Commerce City areamark byzewski / CC BY 2.0 (resized and cropped)
Humble areaDanielCD at English Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0 (resized and cropped)
The WoodlandsHowardHughesCo / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
Anthem, Henderson areaKen Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA / CC BY-SA 2.0 (resized and cropped)
Manhattan BeachJacob Gelman / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
El SegundoDocFreeman24 / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
BrentwoodShotgunheist / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
Mount JulietIchabod / CC BY-SA 3.0 (resized and cropped)
Winter ParkEbyabe / CC BY-SA 3.0 (resized and cropped)
Lake Nona areaAngiesbc / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
Lake MaryZrowny / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
HinsdaleTeemu08 at en.wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0 (resized and cropped)
Oak LawnKen Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA / CC BY-SA 2.0 (resized and cropped)
Park RidgeNick Number / CC BY 4.0 (resized and cropped)
San MateoFASTILY / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
BurlingameJavelinca / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
Paradise ValleyGage Skidmore / CC BY-SA 2.0 (resized and cropped)
ChandlerHunter Trick (TrickHunter) / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
ScottsdaleQuintin Soloviev / CC BY 4.0 (resized and cropped)

Work rules

Researched 2 November 2026

VacationReference: 14 days at year 2, 21 at year 5, 28 at year 12, 35 at year 20From a September 2025 industry comparison table
Days off per monthReference: 17.6 for lineholders, 15 on reserve (average)2021 averages from the pilot careers page

Summarized by PILOT VALUE from public union contracts and company and union materials.

Getting to work

Researched 2 November 2026

Parking: Designated employee parking paid by the company; other lots reimbursed up to USD 720 a yearPilot careers page

Summarized by PILOT VALUE from public union contracts and company and union materials.

Destinations & layovers

BaseATL · AUS · BWI · DAL · DEN · HOU · LAS · LAX · BNA · MCO · MDW · OAK · PHX View on Google Maps

Some destinationsGrouped by region, not by popularity

United StatesBOS Boston Hotels & tips
United StatesSFO San Francisco Hotels & tips
United StatesHNL Honolulu Hotels & tips
United StatesSEA Seattle Hotels & tips
United StatesSLC Salt Lake City Hotels & tips
Costa RicaLIR Liberia Hotels & tips

Search by city or airport code

106 airports

United StatesBOS Boston Hotels & tips
United StatesSFO San Francisco Hotels & tips
United StatesHNL Honolulu Hotels & tips
United StatesSEA Seattle Hotels & tips
United StatesSLC Salt Lake City Hotels & tips
United StatesBHM Birmingham Hotels & tips
United StatesRIC Richmond Hotels & tips
United StatesABQ Albuquerque Hotels & tips
United StatesGRR Grand Rapids Hotels & tips
United StatesANC Anchorage Hotels & tips
United StatesVPS Destin-Fort Walton Beach Hotels & tips
United StatesDSM Des Moines Hotels & tips
United StatesGSP Greenville-Spartanburg Hotels & tips
United StatesMEM Memphis Hotels & tips
United StatesPDX Portland Hotels & tips
United StatesCLT Charlotte Hotels & tips
United States, New HampshireMHT Manchester Hotels & tips
United StatesPHL Philadelphia Hotels & tips
United StatesMTJ Montrose Hotels & tips
United StatesSAV Savannah Hotels & tips
United StatesSDF Louisville Hotels & tips
United StatesJAX Jacksonville Hotels & tips
United StatesFAT Fresno Hotels & tips
United StatesSNA Orange County Hotels & tips
United StatesCMH Columbus Hotels & tips
United StatesLGA New York LaGuardia Hotels & tips
United StatesICT Wichita Hotels & tips
United StatesRSW Fort Myers Hotels & tips
United StatesCLE Cleveland Hotels & tips
United StatesROC Rochester Hotels & tips
United StatesOMA Omaha Hotels & tips
United StatesLIH Lihue Hotels & tips
United StatesCRP Corpus Christi Hotels & tips
United StatesTYS Knoxville Hotels & tips
United StatesPVD Providence Hotels & tips
United StatesLIT Little Rock Hotels & tips
United StatesBUF Buffalo Hotels & tips
United StatesBUR Burbank Hotels & tips
United StatesSTL St. Louis Hotels & tips
United StatesIND Indianapolis Hotels & tips
United StatesELP El Paso Hotels & tips
United StatesCHS Charleston Hotels & tips
United StatesJAN Jackson Hotels & tips
United StatesCVG Cincinnati Hotels & tips
United StatesPWM Portland, ME Hotels & tips
United StatesDCA Washington Reagan Hotels & tips
United StatesPSP Palm Springs Hotels & tips
United StatesMKE Milwaukee Hotels & tips
United StatesECP Panama City Beach Hotels & tips
United StatesMCI Kansas City Hotels & tips
United StatesALB Albany Hotels & tips
United StatesSTS Santa Rosa Hotels & tips
United StatesBDL Hartford Hotels & tips
United StatesONT Ontario Hotels & tips
United StatesSRQ Sarasota Hotels & tips
United StatesTPA Tampa Hotels & tips
United StatesPIT Pittsburgh Hotels & tips
United StatesCOS Colorado Springs Hotels & tips
United StatesSAN San Diego Hotels & tips
United StatesTUS Tucson Hotels & tips
United StatesSMF Sacramento Hotels & tips
United StatesMYR Myrtle Beach Hotels & tips
United StatesOGG Maui Kahului Hotels & tips
United StatesAMA Amarillo Hotels & tips
United StatesMAF Midland Hotels & tips
United StatesISP Islip Hotels & tips
United StatesORF Norfolk Hotels & tips
United StatesSBA Santa Barbara Hotels & tips
United StatesBOI Boise Hotels & tips
United StatesHDN Steamboat Springs Hotels & tips
United StatesKOA Kona Hotels & tips
United StatesEUG Eugene Hotels & tips
United StatesBZN Bozeman Hotels & tips
United StatesLBB Lubbock Hotels & tips
United StatesRDU Raleigh-Durham Hotels & tips
United StatesITO Hilo Hotels & tips
United StatesRNO Reno Hotels & tips
United StatesSAT San Antonio Hotels & tips
United StatesOKC Oklahoma City Hotels & tips
United StatesPNS Pensacola Hotels & tips
United StatesSJC San Jose Hotels & tips
United StatesMIA Miami Hotels & tips
United StatesTUL Tulsa Hotels & tips
United StatesMSP Minneapolis-St Paul Hotels & tips
United StatesGEG Spokane Hotels & tips
United StatesDTW Detroit Hotels & tips
United StatesFLL Fort Lauderdale Hotels & tips
United StatesMSY New Orleans Hotels & tips
United StatesLGB Long Beach Hotels & tips
United StatesHRL Harlingen Hotels & tips
Costa RicaLIR Liberia Hotels & tips
BelizeBZE Belize City Hotels & tips
MexicoPVR Puerto Vallarta Hotels & tips
MexicoCUN Cancun Hotels & tips
Sint MaartenSXM St. Maarten Hotels & tips
MexicoSJD Los Cabos Hotels & tips
US Virgin IslandsSTT St. Thomas Hotels & tips
Costa RicaSJO San Jose Hotels & tips
Cayman IslandsGCM Grand Cayman Hotels & tips
Dominican RepublicPUJ Punta Cana Hotels & tips
ArubaAUA Aruba Hotels & tips
Puerto RicoSJU San Juan Hotels & tips
Turks and Caicos IslandsPLS Providenciales Hotels & tips
JamaicaMBJ Montego Bay Hotels & tips
BahamasNAS Nassau Hotels & tips
CubaHAV Havana Hotels & tips

Sourcesbasis · conditions · date

Basis: Southwest Airlines Co. “Airport Information”Southwest “Route List / stations-all.js”
Conditions: Airports in Southwest Airlines’ airport information and official route map (checked 29 October 2026). Base airports are not included.
Destinations confirmed in our research: 106 airports, as of 29 October 2026. This may not be every destination. It does not show which aircraft types or bases fly there, or whether crews lay over.
Sorted by region (cities with a photo first), not by popularity or number of flights.
As of: Checked in our research on 29 October 2026

Photo credits4

BostonIan Howard / CC BY 2.5 (resized and cropped)
San FranciscoMariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)
HonoluluAlfred Adler / CC BY-SA 3.0 (resized and cropped)
SeattleSajad Mohamad / CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized and cropped)

Tell us one thing about Southwest Airlines.

You can save after answering just one question. Answers are anonymous and appear on the airline page once three pilots have answered the same item.

Answers so far

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Roster10 questions

Commuting and taxis8 questions

Staff Travel10 questions

Upgrade to captain4 questions

Training and career8 questions

Leave and allowances9 questions

Hotels and restaurantsBy destination · pilots only

Reviews

Member posts: —

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Southwest Airlines captain salary in 2026?

Southwest Airlines captain pay is estimated at about $450K per year, pre-tax. These are our own estimates from public information, not figures the airline publishes.

What is the Southwest Airlines first officer salary?

Southwest Airlines first officer pay is estimated at about $292K per year, pre-tax, rising with seniority.

What are the requirements to become a Southwest Airlines pilot?

First Officer — B737 — Domestic (some short-haul international). Key requirements: License: ATP Certificate. We have not been able to confirm flight-hour requirements the airline publishes; the airline’s careers page is linked under Jobs above. US work authorization required. Check official careers page.

What is the Southwest Airlines pilot salary per month?

We do not publish a monthly figure for Southwest Airlines. An annual figure divided by twelve is not what lands in a given month — what you are paid moves with the hours you fly.

What is the Southwest Airlines pilot pay scale?

We estimate annual pay for Southwest Airlines captains at about $450K. That is our own estimate from public information, not a figure Southwest Airlines publishes. These are gross figures, before income tax. The actual figure moves with the aircraft type, years of service and the routes you fly. We estimate annual pay for Southwest Airlines first officers at about $292K. That is our own estimate from public information, not a figure Southwest Airlines publishes. These are gross figures, before income tax. The actual figure moves with the aircraft type, years of service and the routes you fly. Source checked 2026-10-29; yen figures are converted for comparison at the rate held as of 2026-08-22, not a live rate.

Is the Southwest Airlines pilot salary before or after tax?

Every figure on this page is gross, before income tax. Take-home depends on where you are resident and on your own deductions, so no single percentage applies, and we do not publish one. Airlines based in countries with no personal income tax — the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia — leave more of the same gross figure in your hand.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines Captain, estimated annual pay

Southwest Airlines First Officer, estimated annual pay

Submitted payREAL PAY

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Frequently Asked Questions