Average Truck Driver Salary by State
The salary of a truck driver can vary significantly in different regions and states. Factors like average expenses, demand for drivers, and the local economy can influence these differences. While some states offer higher average wages due to developed industry sectors and higher demand, other states may provide lower compensation rates but with balanced expenses. Truck drivers should understand these variations and differences to determine their earning potential precisely. With it, they can make informed decisions about where to base their operations or seek employment to satisfy their lifestyle and financial aspirations.
| State | Average annual salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $85,078 |
| Alaska | $84,879 |
| Arizona | $105,322 |
| Arkansas | $99,216 |
| California | $75,031 |
| Colorado | $117,661 |
| Connecticut | $124,663 |
| Delaware | $132,692 |
| Florida | $152,495 |
| Georgia | $94,642 |
| Hawaii | $76,420 |
| Idaho | $121,044 |
| Illinois | $85,186 |
| Indiana | $86,381 |
| Iowa | $83,497 |
| Kansas | $101,962 |
| Kentucky | $83,893 |
| Louisiana | $90,282 |
| Maine | $133,142 |
| Maryland | $85,715 |
| Massachusetts | $80,367 |
| Michigan | $84,662 |
| Minnesota | $84,796 |
| Mississippi | $100,526 |
| Missouri | $91,942 |
| Montana | $126,500 |
| Nebraska | $112,322 |
| Nevada | $121,624 |
| New Hampshire | $117,972 |
| New Jersey | $99,815 |
| New Mexico | $113,442 |
| New York | $77,045 |
| North Carolina | $83,443 |
| North Dakota | $140,559 |
| Ohio | $77,212 |
| Oklahoma | $106,075 |
| Oregon | $86,959 |
| Pennsylvania | $87,033 |
| Rhode Island | $127,868 |
| South Carolina | $84,372 |
| South Dakota | $128,350 |
| Tennessee | $84,908 |
| Texas | $108,401 |
| Utah | $120,390 |
| Vermont | $139,100 |
| Virginia | $84,951 |
| West Virginia | $106,321 |
| Wisconsin | $73,481 |
| Wyoming | $177,028 |
Job Openings & Market Demand
The trucking industry is one of the backbones of the US economy. Almost all businesses rely on trucks to deliver products and commodities. In addition, the rise of e-commerce and a need for faster and efficient deliveries lead to the growing demand for truck drivers across the country. In addition, increased manufacturing output and the expansion of global trade increased the demand for c argotransportation, pushing the need for qualified drivers.
Some states have a high demand for truck drivers amid their location, major transportation hubs, manufacturing plants, and access to large markets. For instance, states like Texas, California, and Illinois offer more truck driver jobs as they have busy ports, highways, and distribution centers. High volumes of goods move in and out through these states, creating consistent demand for truck drivers.
Truck drivers who are looking for relocation or a new job should understand which states have the highest pay and demand to ensure consistent work. States with growing economies, busy shopping routes, and thriving industrial sectors tend to offer more job stability and openings for truckers, providing a strong foundation for success in this sector.
Cost of Living and Taxes
Salary is the major factor when choosing the state for work, a truck driver must also consider the quality of life and tax rates in different states. A region with a higher average annual salary can seem attractive, while the cost of utilities, groceries, and taxes is also high, eating up your income. At the same time, a state with a lower average wage can offer lower living costs, allowing drivers to stretch their earnings.
For instance, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Ohio have lower costs of living and can offer affordable housing, lower utility bills, and cheaper goods. Thus, a truck driver can maintain a comfortable lifestyle. While the average annual salary in these regions may not be high, the overall financial benefits of living can outweigh the difference in pay.
Tax rates must also be considered in determining choosing the place of living and working. Delaware, Florida, and Texas have no income tax that can be attractive for a truck driver. Working in tax-friendly states can see a significant boost in their take-home pay by avoiding state income taxes.
When comparing potential places to live and work, truckers should factor in the overall expenses and the tax burden in addition to a salary rate. Balancing these elements can help a truck driver find the best financial situation for their personal needs, minimizing their expenses and saving more money.
The Best States for Truck Drivers in 2024
When considering the best states to be a truck driver in 2024, it’s important to look at a combination of factors. This includes salary, available jobs, living expenses, and state policies.
Ohio
Ohio has easy access to the East Coast. In addition, it’s a home to an industrial and manufacturing sector. Thus, Ohio is one of the best states for truck drivers seeking steady work and competitive pay. The state’s infrastructure includes major highways and freight corridor, making it a central hub for shipping and logistics.
Ohio also offers relatively low average expenses, especially in cities like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
According to Indeed, the average annual salary of truck drivers is $77,212.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has a vast highway and trucking route system, making it ideal for logistics and running interstate commerce. The state serves as a major gateway to the Northeast with access to major freight corridors. In addition, the state’s location allows truckers to service major metropolitan areas.
The state also has balanced expenses for living, especially in small cities and rural areas. This can help save money while earning competitive wages. Pennsylvania is also one of the most-tax-friendly states, making it easy to establish a trucking business.
The average base salary for drivers in the trucking industry totals $87,033 per year.
Kentucky
Kentucky also stands out as one of the best states for truck driving amid its strategic location, proximity to major highways, and strong logistics industry. Major trucking companies and distribution centers operate there, providing a steady stream of job opportunities for truck drivers. Working in a big city like Louisville and Lexington offers a range of freight and truck driver jobs.
Kentucky also has policies and regulations favorable to the shipping sector, including tax incentives.
The state has an average wage at the level of $83,893 per year.
Iowa
It’s one of the safest states for truck drivers in the US. Iowa offers low living expenses, fewer congested roads, and truck driving jobs. In addition, this state is a key region in the Midwest for transporting goods.
Here, truckers can benefit from easy access to major interstates that connect both coasts. Iowa has also low price level for living, allowing truck drivers to keep more of their earnings.
The average annual salary of a truck driver in the state is $83,497.
Delaware
Delaware is located among major cities that have a strong demand for truck drivers. Its proximity to major urban centers provides easy access to high-paying routes without the burden of high living costs.
Delaware has also no state income tax, which makes it one of the best states for truckers to live. All these aspects offer a balanced work-life situation for truck drivers.
The average annual salary is $132,692, according to Indeed.
Highest Average Salary
Truck drivers’ salaries are shaped by several key aspects, such as the type of trucking job, experience level, and market conditions. According to Indeed, truck driver can obtain salary in a range from $41,043 to $228,937 per year, while the national average is $96,935. Truckers with a reliable experience, increased knowledge, and skills, can increase the level of compensation.
The type of freight also has a crucial meaning in determining salary. Specialized jobs, such as hauling hazardous materials, oversized loads, or refrigerated goods, can lead to higher pay. These truck driver jobs require additional certifications or skills. Similarly, a long-haul truck driver who covers long distances tends to earn more than local or regional drivers.
Another factor influencing salary is the overall demand for truck drivers. The trucking industry faces a driver shortage that creates more opportunities for experienced specialists to secure high-paying positions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right state for truck drivers can be challenging. This decision can make a significant difference in your financial well-being and job satisfaction. The best states for being a truck driver offer a balance between job opportunities, competitive salaries, and reasonable living expenses.
The highest average salaries for truck drivers can be found in states with large economies and high freight demand. However, the best state for truck drivers to live in depends on a combination of salary, living costs, taxes, and job availability. For a wise and suitable choice, a truck driver should consider all of these factors.
