New Jersey is the state with the highest average heavy/tractor-trailer truck driver salary, and Louisiana is the state with the lowest average heavy/tractor-trailer 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.

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States With the Highest Truck Driver Salaries

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.

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1. New Jersey

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $67,630/year ($32.52/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $49,610/year ($23.85/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 114.6 (#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.

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2. Washington

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $67,060/year ($32.24/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $52,920/year ($25.44/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 113.9 (#42)

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.

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3. Alaska

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $66,890/year ($32.16/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $60,900/year ($29.28/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 127.7 (#48)

Alaska remains one of the highest-paying states for truck drivers. With a base salary of $66,890 per year, or $32.16 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.

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4. New York

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $64,410/year ($30.96/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $50,390/year ($24.23/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 126.6 (#47)

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.

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5. Oregon

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $63,890/year ($30.72/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $49,510/year ($23.80/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 111.8 (#39)

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.

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6. Wyoming

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $63,220/year ($30.39/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $44,680/year ($21.48/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 95.3 (#23)

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 relatively modest cost of living make it an appealing place for truck drivers seeking a stable and rewarding career.

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7. Minnesota

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $62,110/year ($29.86/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $50,010/year ($24.04/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 94.2 (#21)

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.

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8. Nevada

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $61,760/year ($29.69/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $47,120/year ($22.65/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 98.6 (#28)

Nevada offers competitive pay for heavy and tractor trailer truck drivers, influenced by major freight corridors, distribution activity, and steady demand tied to population centers and regional commerce.

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9. Colorado

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $61,750/year ($29.69/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $50,450/year ($24.25/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 102.7 (#34)

Colorado’s strong economy, growing metro areas, and freight movement across mountain and interstate corridors contribute to its higher than average trucking wages.

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10. Illinois

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $61,230/year ($29.44/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $51,120/year ($24.58/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 95.9 (#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.

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States With the Lowest Truck Driver Salaries

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.

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50. Louisiana

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $51,310/year ($24.67/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $42,390/year ($20.38/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 92.7 (#19)

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.

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49. New Mexico

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $51,530/year ($24.77/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $43,170/year ($20.75/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 92.5 (#17)

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.

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48. West Virginia

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $51,920/year ($24.96/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $44,110/year ($21.21/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 88.1 (#4)

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.

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47. Maine

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $53,960/year ($25.94/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $46,880/year ($22.54/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 114.2 (#44)

Maine offers a relatively lower 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.

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46. North Carolina

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $53,990/year ($25.96/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $42,880/year ($20.61/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 97.4 (#26)

North Carolina offers a relatively low average pay compared to many states, influenced by local market factors and the mix of short haul and long haul freight in the region. Individual earnings can still vary widely based on experience, carrier, and freight type.

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45. Alabama

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $54,040/year ($25.98/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $43,240/year ($20.79/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 87.9 (#3)

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.

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44. Florida

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $54,360/year ($26.13/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $46,550/year ($22.38/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 99.5 (#31)

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.

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43. Missouri

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $54,480/year ($26.19/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $46,710/year ($22.46/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 89.0 (#6)

Missouri offers a lower average salary for truck drivers compared to many states, though it benefits from major interstate corridors and steady freight movement. Pay can vary depending on experience, role, and the specific carrier.

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42. Michigan

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $55,090/year ($26.49/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $44,940/year ($21.61/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 94.7 (#22)

Michigan’s trucking wages reflect the state’s mix of manufacturing and regional distribution. Individual earnings can differ based on lane demand, endorsements, and carrier type.

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41. South Carolina

Average Base Salary, Heavy Trucks: $55,110/year ($26.50/hour)
Average Base Salary, Light Trucks: $43,320/year ($20.83/hour)
Cost of Living Index: 92.5 (#18)

South Carolina offers a relatively lower average salary for truck drivers compared to many states, though opportunities vary across ports, manufacturing corridors, and regional freight routes.

Highest-Paying Cities for Truck Drivers

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

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: $46,300

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Entry-Level Truck Driver Salaries

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

Elmira, NY:
Average base salary, heavy trucks: $50,530
Average base salary, light trucks: $41,880

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Owner-Operator Salaries 

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 $228,000 per year, or $125.35 per hour.
-Owner-operator salaries commonly range from $150,000 to $312,000, with top earners around $400,000.
-The highest-paying cities for owner-operator drivers include Nome, AK, Berkeley, CA, and Sitka, AK.

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.

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Regional Truck Driver vs. Local Truck Driver Salaries 

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.

-On average, a regional truck driver earns $75,877 per year, or $36.48 per hour.
The average yearly salary for a local truck driver is $63,020 per year, or $30.30 per hour.
-The highest-paying cities for a regional truck driver include Two Rivers, WI and Nome, AK.
-The top-paying cities for a local truck driver include Corcoran, CA and Soledad, CA.

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General Trends in the Truck Driving Industry 

This section offers a comprehensive overview of key employment statistics and trends within the trucking industry. By examining data on job growth, salary levels, and other factors, we can gain valuable insights into the current state and future prospects of this vital sector.

-As of 2024, there were 2,235,100 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers employed in the United States.
-As of 2024, there were 1,079,800 light truck drivers employed in the United

States.
The national median light truck driver salary is $44,140 (May 2024).

Regional Truck Driver vs. Local Truck Driver Salaries 

While the names may sound similar, regional and local truck drivers are two distinct roles, each with different earning potential and lifestyle tradeoffs.

A regional truck driver typically operates within a defined portion of the United States, such as the Midwest, Southwest, or Northeast, while a local truck driver usually works within a single state or metro area. Regional drivers don’t cover as much ground as national OTR drivers, but they still spend a majority of their time on the road and may be away from home for multiple days at a time. Local drivers, on the other hand, stay closer to home but often work in congested urban areas and make multiple deliveries per shift.

While salaries vary based on location, experience, carrier, and freight type, regional truck drivers consistently earn more than local drivers due to longer routes and extended hours.

Based on updated ZipRecruiter national averages:

• Average regional truck driver salary: $75,877 per year ($36.48/hour)
  
  

• Average local truck driver salary: $63,020 per year ($30.30/hour)
  
  

The highest-paying cities for regional truck drivers include:

• Berkeley, CA
  
  

• New York City, NY
  
  

• Renton, WA
  
  

The top-paying cities for local truck drivers include:

• Soledad, CA
  
  

• Ione, CA
  
  

• Two Rivers, WI
  
  

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General Trends in the Truck Driving Industry 

This section provides an overview of current employment levels and wage trends in the trucking industry using the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

As of the latest BLS employment estimates:

• 2.23 million heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers are employed in the United States
  
  

• Texas employs the largest number of heavy truck drivers nationwide
  
  

• Over 1.08 million light truck drivers are employed across the U.S.
  
  

• California employs the most light truck drivers of any state
  
  

• New York City, Newark, and Jersey City form the largest metro area for light truck employment
  
  

The national median salary for light truck drivers is $44,140, reflecting continued demand in last-mile delivery, courier services, and regional distribution.

Courier and express delivery services, local messengers, and local delivery operations continue to account for the highest employment levels among light truck drivers, supporting the growth of e-commerce and same-day delivery networks.

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Career Tips for Truck Drivers

Considering a career in transportation? Keep these tips in mind as you research the trucking industry:

• Gain experience: The more experience you have, the higher your earning potential.
  
  

• Obtain certifications: Specialized endorsements such as hazardous materials, tanker, or doubles/triples can boost your pay.
  
  

• Negotiate your pay: Don’t be afraid to negotiate when job hunting or seeking a raise.
  
  

• Research CDL schools: Choose a reputable CDL program that fits your budget and schedule.
  
  

• Avoid violations: A clean driving record protects long-term earning potential.
  
  

• Company reputation: Research carriers and read driver reviews.
  
  

• Benefits and compensation: Look beyond base pay at benefits and bonuses.
  
  

• Safety record: Choose employers with strong safety cultures.
  
  

• Hazardous materials: Obtain the HazMat endorsement if you plan to haul regulated freight.
  
  

• Passenger transport: Secure Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsements if applicable.
  
  

• Tanker specs: Obtain the tanker endorsement for hauling liquids or gases.
  
  

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Final Note

Now that you’re more familiar with how regional vs. local roles compare and where the trucking industry stands today, you can make more informed decisions about your career path. Consider both salary potential and lifestyle factors, and don’t forget to stay aware of challenging or dangerous driving routes as you gain experience.

Once you land a trucking position, keeping your equipment road-ready is critical. When you 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.