A method of reverse link power control for a reverse packet data channel in a wireless communication system allows a mobile station to autonomously change its data transmission rate. The mobile station transmits packet data over a reverse packet data channel having a data rate variant transmit power level that varies based on a transmit data rate on the packet data channel. The mobile station further transmits control signals over a reverse control channel associated with the reverse packet data channel. The transmit power level of the reverse control channel is such that the transmit power level does not vary with the transmit data rate on the packet data channel. The radio base station measures the strength of the received signals on the reverse control channel, compares the measured strength to a power control set point, and generates a power control signal responsive to the comparison of the control signal to the power control set point.