November 25, 2024
Alaska is the state with the highest average truck driver salary, and West Virginia is the state with the lowest average truck driver salary.
If you're considering a career as a truck driver, you're probably wondering what you can expect to earn. To give prospective drivers (or just curious researchers) the most accurate insights possible, we put together this comprehensive guide to average truck driver salaries across the United States.
We focused primarily on heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers who operate vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of at least 26,001 pounds. This includes drivers of commercial trucks, such as semi-trailers and tankers. But to cover all our bases, we also included figures for light truck driving and the most common industries for each type of truck.
By understanding the factors that influence truck driver salaries and industry growth potential, you can make informed decisions about your career path in the trucking industry.
Table of Contents:
These states offer some of the most lucrative opportunities for truck drivers due to higher demand for transportation services, proximity to major industrial hubs, and favorable economic conditions. Let’s go through the states with the highest truck driver salaries.
Please note that salaries can vary widely by factors like the type of truck, cargo, distance driven, and license required, but to keep our figures as accurate and consistent as possible, we based them on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and truck classifications.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $65,870/year ($31.67/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $55,810/year ($26.83/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 123 (#47)
Alaska is the state with the highest average truck driver salary in the United States. With a base salary of $65,870 per year, or $31.67 per hour, Alaska offers a substantial income for truck drivers. While its high cost of living index partially explains this elevated pay, the state's vast distances and challenging terrain also contribute to the higher compensation.
Alaska’s unique economic landscape, including its reliance on resource extraction and transportation, creates a strong demand for trucking services. This increased demand drives up wages as companies compete for qualified drivers. Truck drivers in Alaska must also navigate remote roads and extreme weather conditions and often face longer haul times.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $64,270/year ($30.90/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $48,460/year ($23.30/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 115 (#45)
New Jersey offers a competitive average truck driver salary despite its smaller size. The state's higher cost of living drives up wages for various professions, including truck drivers, to compensate for the increased expenses. The dense population and economic activity in the state create a high demand for transportation services, leading to increased competition among trucking companies and higher wages for qualified drivers.
New Jersey's assorted industries and complex supply chains often require specialized trucking services, such as transporting hazardous materials or delivering goods to densely populated urban areas, commanding higher salaries. Also, the state's proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia also contributes to higher truck driver salaries due to the increased demand for trucking services.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $63,160/year ($30.36/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $51,650/year ($24.83/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 115.8 (#46)
Washington is another state known for its assorted economy and stunning landscapes. Its high truck driver salary is attributed to several factors: the state's strong economy, multifaceted geography, and increasing cost of living. The demand for trucking services, driven by industries such as technology, aerospace, and agriculture, combined with the need for specialized trucking in mountainous regions and coastal areas, contributes to these higher wages.
Beyond the substantial salaries, Washington's trucking industry offers several additional advantages that make it an attractive destination. The state's industry base, well-developed infrastructure, and proximity to Canada create a favorable environment for trucking operations.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $60,910/year ($29.28/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $47,680/year ($22.92/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 123.5 (#48)
New York City, a bustling metropolitan area with a multifaceted economy, offers a higher average truck driver salary than many other major cities. The state's high cost of living drives up wages in most industries, including trucking. The state’s dense population and high economic activity create demand for transportation services, leading to increased competition among trucking companies and higher wages for qualified drivers.
New York's trucking industry is dynamic and diverse. The state serves as a major hub for both domestic and international trade, with a vast network of highways and interstates connecting various regions. Truck drivers in New York support the state's economy by transporting goods to and from businesses, retailers, and consumers.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $60,030/year ($28.86/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $37,720/year ($18.14/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 92.8 (#17)
The extensive and sparsely populated state of Wyoming offers a fairly high truck driver salary. Wyoming’s truck driver salary is influenced by the state's reliance on the energy and agriculture industries, which generates demand for trucking services. The state's vast distances and relatively low population density also contribute to higher compensation for truck drivers.
Wyoming's truck drivers are essential for connecting rural areas to urban centers and ensuring the delivery of essential goods and services. The industry also contributes to local economies by providing truck driving jobs and supporting related businesses.
While the trucking industry in Wyoming encounters obstacles such as seasonal fluctuations and weather-related disruptions, the state's high salaries and low cost of living make it an appealing place for truck drivers seeking a stable and rewarding career.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $59,920/year ($28.81/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $48,360/year ($23.25/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 112.2 (#41)
The scenic state of Oregon is known for its beauty and multifaceted industries. When it comes to truck drivers, Oregon provides a generous average salary based on the state's robust economy, varied geography, and role as a regional trade hub.
Oregon’s economy is driven by technology, agriculture, and manufacturing, creating a steady demand for trucking services. Oregon's geography, featuring coastal areas, mountainous regions, and urban centers, requires specialized trucking services, which can contribute to higher salaries. Additionally, the state's involvement in regional and international trade creates a demand for trucking services to transport goods to and from ports, distribution centers, and businesses.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $59,900/year ($28.80/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $48,890/year ($23.51/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 95.3 (#26)
Home to thousands of beautiful lakes, Minnesota offers an above-average truck driver salary. This elevated pay is influenced by Minnesota’s strong agricultural sector, thriving manufacturing industry, and role as a transportation hub.
The state's healthy agricultural and manufacturing sectors require trucking to transport raw materials, creating a significant demand for trucking services. The state's well-developed transportation infrastructure further contributes to the demand for trucking services.
While the industry faces challenges such as winter weather and seasonal fluctuations, the state's high salaries and low cost of living make it a desirable location for truck drivers seeking a promising career.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $59,470/year ($28.59/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $50,940/year ($24.49/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 94.8 (#24)
Illinois is known for its vibrant cities, rich history, and varied industries, including truck driving. The state’s demand for trucking services influences its elevated pay.
The trucking industry faces challenges like traffic congestion, market fluctuations, and new regulations. Despite these hurdles, generous pay and the industry's economic importance continue to attract drivers to Illinois. Illinois offers a dynamic and rewarding environment and the potential for a fairly low cost of living for truck drivers seeking a stable career.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $58,680/year ($28.21/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $50,870/year ($24.46/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 91.3 (#14)
While North Dakota does offer a competitive average truck driver salary, it’s ranked number nine on our list in comparison to the other states. The state is a major energy producer, including oil and natural gas, generating demand for trucking services. North Dakota’s agricultural sector also creates demand for truck drivers to transport products to distributors and consumers.
While the trucking industry in North Dakota deals with challenges such as seasonal fluctuations and weather-related disruptions, the state's attractive salaries, very low cost of living, and the impact of trucking on its economy make it an enticing place for truck drivers seeking a reliable career.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $58,680/year ($28.21/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $46,380/year ($22.30/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 93.6 (#21)
Nebraska’s vast plains and agricultural landscapes offer truck drivers a fair average salary. The state has a significant demand for trucking services to transport agricultural products to processing facilities, markets, and export locations. Nebraska’s energy sector also demands truck drivers to transport materials, equipment, and finished products. Due to its central location, Nebraska serves as a gateway to the Midwest while connecting other regions.
While the trucking industry in Nebraska faces challenges such as seasonal fluctuations and weather-related disruptions, the state's above-average salaries, low cost of living, and the significance of trucking to its economy make it an attractive destination for truck drivers who want a fulfilling career.
While offering unique cultural experiences and natural beauty, these states may present challenges for truck drivers in terms of salary levels. Smaller trucking industries, geographic challenges, and less diversified economies can contribute to lower average wages. Here’s a closer look at the states with the lowest truck driver salaries.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $48,460/year ($23.30/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $38,960/year ($18.73/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 84.3 (#1)
West Virginia, with a cost of living index significantly lower than many other states, offers truck drivers a relatively affordable lifestyle. However, the average truck driver salary is among the lowest in the nation. This is likely due to the state's smaller trucking industry and a lower overall cost of living.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $48,890/year ($23.51/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $42,960/year ($20.65/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 93.1 (#19)
Despite its unique landscape and cultural attractions, New Mexico offers a relatively low average truck driver salary compared to many other states. Reasons for this include a smaller trucking industry, geographic challenges presented by the state's vast, arid landscape, and a less diversified economy.
While these factors can influence overall salary levels, compensation depends on experience, type of trucking, and the specific carrier. Some drivers may find opportunities for higher pay by pursuing specialized roles in niche areas of the trucking industry including heavy haul and oversized load transportation.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $49,780/year ($23.93/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $41,010/year ($19.72/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 91.6 (#15)
Louisiana offers a lower average pay than many other states. This is influenced by a smaller trucking industry, geographic challenges presented by the state's coastal regions and river deltas, and a more niche economy. Although these variables affect overall pay, individual earnings can vary depending on experience, type of trucking, and the specific carrier. Some drivers may find opportunities for higher pay by targeting niche markets of the trucking industry, such as hauling oil and gas products or transporting goods to and from ports.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $50,740/year ($24.40/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $44,910/year ($21.59/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 111 (#39)
Maine offers a relatively low average truck driver salary than many other states despite the high cost of living. This may be because of the smaller trucking industry, geographic challenges presented by the state's mountainous terrain and harsh winters, and a less varied economy.
Despite these influencing factors, pay can differ based on experience, type of trucking, and the specific carrier. Some drivers may find opportunities for higher pay by working for larger carriers or specializing in niche areas of the trucking industry, such as transporting timber or seafood.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $51,530/year ($24.77/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $44,630/year ($21.46/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 88.5 (#6)
Arkansas offers a lower average salary for truckers than other states. This is influenced by a smaller trucking industry, rugged terrain, and a limited economic base.
Regardless of these variables, individual earnings can vary depending on experience, type of trucking, and the specific carrier. Some drivers may find opportunities for higher pay by focusing on specific areas of the trucking industry, such as transporting poultry or agricultural products.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $51,940/year ($24.97/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $41,570/year ($19.99/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 87.6 (#4)
Alabama is another state that offers a lower average salary for truck drivers. Factors such as a less diversified economy, geographic challenges, and a smaller trucking industry play a role in this.
Despite these influencing components, pay can differ based on experience, type of trucking, and the specific carrier. Some drivers may find opportunities for higher pay by working for larger carriers or specializing in niche areas of the trucking industry, such as transporting automobiles or steel products.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $52,480/year ($25.23/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $40,520/year ($19.48/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 85.3 (#2)
As a state with a diverse economy, Oklahoma offers opportunities for truck drivers in various sectors. While tornado risk and rural areas with limited infrastructure can present challenges, the state's agricultural industry, energy resources, and manufacturing sectors provide opportunities for transporting goods related to these industries. Keep in mind that it boasts a lower cost of living but also lower trucker driver salaries.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $52,760/year ($25.37/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $41,410/year ($19.91/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 87.7 (#5)
Mississippi is known for its blues music, civil rights history, and beautiful beaches, but offers a relatively low average pay. The state's smaller trucking industry, coupled with its geographic challenges (including coastal regions and rural areas), can contribute to lower wages. However, opportunities exist for drivers specializing in transporting agricultural products, chemicals, or forestry goods.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $52,760/year ($25.37/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $44,060/year ($21.18/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 102.4 (#33)
As a popular tourist destination with a large population, Florida offers opportunities for truck drivers but at a lower price than most states. Its high cost of living and low-lying areas susceptible to flooding and hurricane risk can present challenges. However, the state's transportation industry, particularly related to tourism and trade, provides opportunities for drivers transporting goods to and from major ports and attractions.
Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $52,760/year ($25.37/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $48,710/year ($23.42/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 111.5 (#40)
With its vast desert landscape and growing population, Arizona offers a unique environment for truck drivers. While extreme temperatures and arid conditions can pose challenges, the state's proximity to Mexico and its mining and manufacturing industries provide opportunities for transporting goods across borders and supporting industrial activities. Arizona also has a relatively high cost of living to pair with its low average truck driving salary.
These cities offer a combination of high demand for transportation services, favorable economic conditions, and amenities for truck drivers. They may have well-maintained truck stops, convenient access to major highways, and a variety of attractions for drivers to enjoy during their downtime.
Chicago, IL:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $62,320
Average base salary, light trucks: $52,280
Louisville, KY:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $59,000
Average base salary, light trucks: $50,730
Dallas, TX:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $58,960
Average base salary, light trucks: $47,990
Salt Lake City, UT:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $58,310
Average base salary, light trucks: $47,950
Atlanta, GA:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $57,770
Average base salary, light trucks: $47,560
Nashville, TN:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $56,900
Average base salary, light trucks: $46,740
Houston, TX:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $55,260
Average base salary, light trucks: $46,270
Charlotte, NC:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $55,190
Average base salary, light trucks: $43,620
Phoenix, AZ:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $53,650
Average base salary, light trucks: $49,300
While average truck driver salaries can vary significantly across states, it's important to consider entry-level wages. States like California, Texas, and Nevada offer competitive salaries for entry-level truck drivers due to their large economies, diverse industries, and high demand for transportation services.
In contrast, states like West Virginia, Arkansas, and Mississippi may have lower entry-level truck driver salaries due to smaller trucking industries, geographic challenges, and less diversified economies.
As truck drivers gain experience, their salaries can increase significantly. Elements influencing salary growth include years of experience, certifications, company size and role, and economic conditions. By understanding the elements that influence entry-level salaries and growth potential, individuals can make informed decisions about their career paths in the trucking industry.
For those just starting out, these cities boast high entry-level trucking salaries. We pulled data from Indeed and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to draw these conclusions.
Troutdale, OR:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $62,350
Average base salary, light trucks: $49,950
Minneapolis, MN:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $62,000
Average base salary, light trucks: $50,720
Saint Paul, MN:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $62,000
Average base salary, light trucks: $50,720
Reno, NV:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $61,120
Average base salary, light trucks: $47,950
Sparks, NV:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $61,120
Average base salary, light trucks: $47,950
Denver, CO:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $60,780
Average base salary, light trucks: $49,990
Albany, NY:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $58,850
Average base salary, light trucks: $44,840
Truckee, CA:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $55,710
Average base salary, light trucks: $42,420
Elmira, NY:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $50,530
Average base salary, light trucks: $41,880
Just like what and where you drive, who you drive for can have a huge impact on your earning potential. An owner-operator is a driver who, as the name implies, owns and operates a trucking business. So, not only do they make high-level decisions like what routes to drive and what freight to carry, they also get behind the wheel. This position has some of the highest reported salaries in the industry.
The national average base salary for an owner-operator is $321,898 per year, or $132 per hour.
The highest-paying cities for owner-operator drivers are Washington, D.C., Phoenix, AZ, and Columbus, OH.
Owner-operator salaries range from $186,296 to $556,201.
Keep in mind that owner-operators are also technically business owners, so their higher earnings come with considerable overhead and the stresses of running their own enterprise.
While the names may sound similar, regional and local truck drivers are actually two distinct roles. A regional truck driver works within a specific portion of the United States, like the Southwest or the Northeast, whereas a local truck driver usually operates within one state or city.
Regional truck drivers don't cover as much ground as national drivers, but they still spend a majority of their time on the road. Local truck drivers stay close to home but are more likely to work in congested areas and make multiple deliveries per day. While salaries are dependent on location, experience, company, and cargo type, regional truckers tend to earn more than local truckers. To draw these conclusions, we pulled data from this ZipRecruiter data and this additional ZipRecruiter data.
On average, a regional truck driver earns $75,877 per year, or $36 per hour.
The average yearly salary for a local truck driver is $63,020 per year, or $30 per hour.
The highest-paying cities for a regional truck driver are Berkley, CA, New York City, NY, and Renton, WA.
The top-paying cities for a local truck driver are Soledad, CA, Ione, CA, and Two Rivers, WI.
This section offers a comprehensive overview of key employment statistics and trends within the trucking industry by the BLS. By examining data on job growth, salary levels, regional variations, and other factors, we can gain valuable insights into the current state and future prospects of this vital sector.
As of May 2023, there were 2.04 million heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers employed in the United States.
Texas employs the most heavy truck drivers of any U.S. state (212,770).
Arkansas has the highest concentration of trucking jobs by location with 34,460 jobs.
As of May 2023, there were over 1 million light truck drivers employed in the United States.
California employs the most light truck drivers of any U.S. state (119,100).
Texas and Florida both employ over 72,000 light truck drivers.
New York City, Newark, and Jersey City are the metropolitan areas with the highest number of light truck drivers (58,890).
The national average light trucker driver salary is $42,470.
Courier express delivery services, local messengers, and local delivery have the highest employment levels for light truck drivers (383,890 positions).
Considering a career in transportation? Here are a few career tips to keep in mind as you research the trucking industry.
Gain experience: The more experience you have, the higher your earning potential.
Obtain certifications: Specialized certifications such as hazardous materials endorsements or team driving certifications can boost your salary.
Negotiate your pay: Don't be afraid to negotiate your salary when job hunting or seeking a raise.
Research CDL schools: Choose a reputable commercial driver’s license school that meets your needs and budget.
Avoid violations: Any traffic violations can negatively impact your driving record and future employment opportunities.
Company reputation: Research a potential trucking company's reputation and read reviews from other drivers.
Look at benefits and compensation: Consider the company's benefits package and compensation structure.
Check the safety record: Evaluate the company's safety record to ensure a safe working environment. Also, make sure you’re being a defensive driver!
Learn about hazardous materials: If you're interested in hauling hazardous materials, you'll need specific endorsements on your commercial driver's license (CDL), such as the Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement. Obtain your endorsement by passing the required exams at the DMV or licensing agency.
Be prepared for passenger transportation: If you want to transport passengers, you'll need specific endorsements on your commercial driver's license (CDL), such as the Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsement. Obtain these endorsements by passing the corresponding knowledge and driving tests at your local DMV or licensing agency.
Know about tanker specs: Obtain the tanker endorsement if you plan to haul liquids or gasses.
Now that you’re more familiar with the factors influencing truck driver salaries and growth potential, you can make more informed decisions about your career path. Think about the states with the most opportunities and those that fall below the national average. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the most dangerous truck roads as you embark on this journey.
Once you land a trucking position, you may need heavy-duty truck parts or trailer accessories. FinditParts is your one-stop shop. Order online 24/7 or speak with one of our knowledgeable experts.
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers. BLS, 53-3032 | Light Truck Drivers. BLS, 53-3033 | State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates. BLS, May 2023 | Cost of Living Data Series. MERIC | Entry Level Truck Driver Salary in United States. Indeed | Truck Driver Salary in United States. Indeed
