Truck Driver Salary in USA 2025

Truck Driver Salary Overview

This guide covers truck driver salary in the US for 2025, including national averages, pay by state, experience levels, and route types (local, regional, and OTR/long-haul). Whether you're considering getting your CDL, evaluating job offers, or planning your next move in the industry, these figures provide the benchmarks you need.

Truck drivers haul freight across town, across states, or across the country using commercial vehicles—typically requiring a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Trucking is the backbone of the US supply chain, moving approximately 70% of all freight by weight. This essential role keeps store shelves stocked, factories running, and the economy moving.

Trucking is one of the most accessible high paying jobs without a degree, offering solid income with relatively quick entry. However, pay varies widely depending on miles driven, freight type, carrier, and whether drivers are paid hourly, per mile, or by percentage. The data here draws from BLS estimates, industry surveys, and carrier pay scales, presented as realistic ranges rather than exact promises.

What Truck Drivers Earn: National Snapshot

Truck driver pay varies more than most professions because compensation structures differ significantly. BLS data for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers shows median annual wages around $54,000 (approximately $26/hour equivalent), while industry salary guides report average earnings ranging from the mid-$40,000s to low-$60,000s depending on route type and experience.

Many drivers are paid per mile rather than hourly, so annual totals depend heavily on miles driven, home time, and deadhead (unpaid) miles. A driver earning 60 cents per mile who drives 2,500 miles per week grosses roughly $78,000 annually—but actual paid miles often fall below advertised maximums.

For drivers paid hourly, use our salary calculator to convert rates. For context on how trucker pay compares to other professions, see our guide to average salary in the US.

Truck Driver Salary by Experience Level

Experience significantly affects truck driver compensation. Carriers pay more for drivers with clean records, proven reliability, and the ability to handle diverse situations on the road.

New / Entry-Level Drivers (First 1–2 Years)

New CDL holders typically start at lower pay rates while they gain experience and build a clean driving record. First-year drivers commonly earn $40,000–$48,000 annually, though some mega-carriers advertise higher starting pay with sign-on bonuses.

Entry-level pay often reflects: training costs carriers absorb, higher insurance rates for new drivers, and the learning curve for efficiency and safety. Many new drivers work for large training carriers initially, then move to better-paying positions after 6–12 months of experience.

Experienced Company Drivers (3+ Years)

After several years without major incidents, drivers move into more stable and higher pay bands. Experienced company drivers commonly earn $52,000–$65,000 annually for full-time OTR or regional work. Consistent high-mileage drivers, those willing to run difficult routes, and drivers with specialized endorsements earn toward the higher end.

At this stage, drivers have more leverage to negotiate with carriers or seek out companies with better pay structures, benefits, and home time policies.

Owner-Operators and Specialized Roles

Owner-operators and drivers in niche segments (tanker, hazmat, oversized loads, team driving) can see significantly higher gross income—often $150,000–$250,000+ in gross revenue. However, owner-operators face substantial expenses: truck payments, fuel, maintenance, insurance, and permits.

After expenses, net owner-operator income varies widely. Well-run operations can net $70,000–$100,000+, but poor planning or unexpected repairs can significantly reduce take-home pay. Specialized company drivers (not owner-operators) in hazmat, tanker, or oversized hauling typically earn $65,000–$85,000+ with better risk-to-reward ratios.

Truck Driver Salary by State and Region

Truck driver pay varies by state and region, influenced by freight demand, cost of living, and the types of routes available. However, many drivers spend time across multiple states, so "state salary" often reflects where they're based or employed rather than where they drive daily.

Higher-Paying States and Freight Hubs

States with major freight corridors, ports, and distribution centers often show higher average driver pay. California, Texas, New Jersey, Washington, and Illinois frequently appear among higher-paying states, with average salaries reaching $58,000–$70,000+. These areas have high freight volumes but often higher living costs as well.

Mid-Range States

States like Ohio, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina offer competitive driver wages around the national average ($50,000–$58,000). These states often serve as major logistics hubs with significant trucking employment.

Lower-Paying States

Some rural states and areas with less freight density report average driver salaries in the $42,000–$50,000 range. However, lower cost of living in these areas can offset the difference in nominal wages.

For context on wage floors across states, see our guide to minimum wage by state.

Truck Driver Salary by Route Type and Freight

Route type is one of the biggest factors affecting both pay and lifestyle. Understanding the tradeoffs helps drivers choose positions that match their priorities.

Local Drivers

Local drivers typically operate within a 150-mile radius and return home daily. Annual earnings commonly range from $45,000–$60,000, with many positions paying hourly ($18–$26/hour) rather than per mile. The tradeoff: more predictable schedules and home time, but often lower total pay than regional or OTR work.

Regional Drivers

Regional drivers cover larger territories—often multi-state regions—and may be out for a few nights per week but typically get home on weekends. Pay commonly falls in the $50,000–$65,000 range, offering a middle ground between local home time and OTR earning potential.

OTR / Long-Haul Drivers

Over-the-road (OTR) drivers cover the longest distances, often coast-to-coast, and may be away from home for 2–4 weeks at a time. OTR positions offer the highest earning potential—commonly $55,000–$75,000 for company drivers, with high-mileage drivers exceeding $80,000. The tradeoff is significant time away from home and the physical/mental demands of life on the road.

Specialized Freight

Drivers hauling specialized freight often earn premiums: Tanker drivers (liquid cargo) often earn 10–20% above standard rates. Hazmat endorsement holders (hazardous materials) see similar premiums. Flatbed drivers (oversized, heavy equipment) often earn $60,000–$75,000+. Refrigerated (reefer) drivers hauling temperature-sensitive goods also earn above average.

Pay Structures: Hourly, Per-Mile, Percentage, and Bonuses

Understanding how truck drivers get paid is essential for comparing job offers and estimating actual earnings.

Cents Per Mile (CPM)

Most OTR and regional drivers are paid per mile driven. Rates typically range from $0.45–$0.70+ per mile depending on carrier, experience, and freight type. Important considerations: not all miles may be paid (deadhead miles driving empty often pay less or nothing), and advertised "up to" rates may require specific conditions to achieve.

Hourly Pay

Many local drivers and some regional positions pay hourly, typically $18–$28/hour. Hourly pay provides more predictable income and compensates for time spent loading/unloading, waiting, and navigating traffic—time that per-mile pay doesn't cover.

Percentage of Load/Revenue

Some owner-operators and specialized drivers earn a percentage of the load's revenue—commonly 25–35% of the load value. This structure rewards finding high-value freight but introduces more income variability.

Bonuses and Additional Pay

Many carriers offer additional compensation: sign-on bonuses ($2,000–$15,000 for experienced drivers), safety bonuses for accident-free driving, detention pay for excessive wait times at shippers/receivers, layover pay when loads are delayed, and performance bonuses tied to fuel efficiency or on-time delivery. These extras can add $5,000–$15,000+ to annual income.

To understand how hourly rates translate to annual salary, see our guide on $50,000 a year hourly breakdown.

How to Increase Your Truck Driver Salary

Strategic career moves can significantly boost your trucking income over time.

Build Experience and a Clean Record

The most reliable path to higher pay is accumulating years of accident-free, violation-free driving. After 1–2 years with a clean record, drivers can often move to carriers paying $0.05–$0.15 more per mile than entry-level positions—adding $5,000–$15,000+ annually.

Get Additional Endorsements

CDL endorsements open doors to higher-paying freight. Hazmat endorsement (requires background check and testing), Tanker endorsement (for liquid cargo), and Doubles/Triples endorsement (for pulling multiple trailers) each can increase per-mile rates or qualify you for premium-paying positions.

Move to Higher-Paying Route Types

If lifestyle allows, transitioning from local to regional or OTR work can significantly increase earnings. Similarly, moving from dry van to specialized freight (flatbed, tanker, reefer) often pays more.

Consider Owner-Operator Path

For entrepreneurial drivers, owner-operator status offers higher gross income potential—but requires business skills, capital, and risk tolerance. Evaluate carefully before making this transition.

Negotiate and Shop Carriers

Experienced drivers have leverage. Compare pay packages across carriers and negotiate—many will match or beat competitors' offers to retain good drivers. Our salary negotiation guide covers strategies that apply to trucking.

Job Outlook, Lifestyle, and Work-Life Balance

Truck driver demand remains strong. High industry turnover, retirements, and ongoing freight needs mean carriers are consistently hiring. The American Trucking Associations reports driver shortages, creating opportunities for qualified CDL holders.

Lifestyle Tradeoffs

Different trucking positions offer dramatically different lifestyles:

OTR drivers may earn more but spend weeks away from home. This lifestyle suits some people but strains relationships and makes routine life (doctor appointments, family events) challenging.

Regional drivers balance earning potential with more regular home time—often home weekends.

Local drivers have the most predictable schedules and home time but often earn less. This option works well for drivers with family obligations or those who value routine.

Physical and Mental Demands

Trucking involves long hours of sitting, irregular schedules, and time away from support systems. Health considerations (diet, exercise, sleep) become important for long-term career sustainability. Drivers should weigh both pay and lifestyle sustainability when evaluating positions.

Career Flexibility

Many drivers move between route types throughout their careers—starting OTR for higher earnings when young and single, then transitioning to regional or local work as family obligations increase. This flexibility allows drivers to optimize both income and quality of life over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average truck driver salary in the US in 2025?

The median truck driver salary is approximately $54,000 per year according to BLS data. Average salaries from various sources range from $45,000–$65,000 depending on route type, experience, and carrier. High-mileage OTR drivers, specialized freight haulers, and owner-operators can earn $70,000–$90,000+.

Which truck driving jobs pay the most?

The highest-paying trucking jobs typically include: owner-operators (variable but potentially $70,000–$100,000+ net), tanker and hazmat drivers ($60,000–$80,000), oversized/heavy haul specialists ($65,000–$85,000), team drivers ($70,000–$90,000 per driver), and ice road truckers and specialized seasonal work (premium rates during limited seasons).

Which states pay truck drivers the most?

California, Texas, New Jersey, Washington, and Illinois often rank among higher-paying states for truck drivers, with average salaries reaching $58,000–$70,000+. However, cost of living varies significantly, and many drivers work across multiple states regardless of where they're based.

Is truck driving a good paying job without a degree?

Yes. Trucking offers solid middle-class income ($54,000+ median) with relatively quick entry—most CDL training programs take 3–8 weeks. Experienced drivers can earn $60,000–$75,000+, and specialized drivers or owner-operators can exceed $80,000. For detailed comparisons, see our guide to high paying jobs without a degree.

How many miles per week do you need to drive to make good money?

At typical per-mile rates ($0.50–$0.65/mile), drivers need to run 2,000–2,500+ miles per week consistently to reach $52,000–$65,000 annually. Running 3,000+ miles per week at competitive rates can push earnings above $75,000. However, consistently high miles require favorable route assignments, minimal deadhead, and the willingness to spend significant time on the road.