Truck Driver Salary by State & Experience 2025 | USA
Discover the latest trends in truck driver salary by state across the USA.
California vs National Average:
Truck Driver Salary by State Trends (2005-2024)
Customize Your Truck Driver Salary by State Comparison
This interactive chart compares truck driver salary by state over the past two decades, highlighting how experience and location impact earnings compared to the national average.
Compare average pay levels from 2005 to 2024, adjusted for experience (0-5, 5-10, 10-20, 20+ years), and see how your state stacks up against the national average. This comprehensive guide to truck driver salary by state helps with career planning, relocation decisions, and salary negotiations.
Key Insights on Truck Driver Salary by State
High-Demand Regions
States with major freight corridors like Texas and California offer above-average truck driver salary by state due to logistics volume.
Energy Sector Boost
Oil and gas states like North Dakota and Alaska provide premium pay for specialized hauling.
Experience Premium
Drivers with 10+ years and CDL endorsements earn 15-30% more than entry-level across most states.
Long-Haul Advantage
Over-the-road drivers typically earn more than local routes in high-volume states.
National Growth
Truck driver salary by state has risen steadily with e-commerce and supply chain expansion.
Future Outlook
By 2025, driver shortages are expected to push truck driver salary by state higher in most regions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Driver Salary by State
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Calculate My U.S. Salary NowUnderstanding Truck Driver Salaries Across U.S. States
Truck driver compensation varies across the United States, influenced by freight volume, cost of living, regional demand, and type of hauling (local vs long-haul). As supply chain and e-commerce continue to expand, truck drivers remain essential workers with stable earning potential.
Historical Salary Trends (2005–2024)
Over the past two decades, average truck driver pay has shown steady increases, driven by driver shortages and rising freight needs. States with major logistics hubs and ports have generally seen stronger growth than the national average.
Regional Differences and Opportunities
High-demand states like Texas, California, and Illinois often offer above-average compensation due to large distribution centers and interstate routes. Meanwhile, states with lower living costs can provide competitive take-home pay despite moderate gross salaries.
How Experience Impacts Earnings
Experience is a major factor in truck driver pay. Entry-level drivers typically start near the national average, while those with 10+ years, specialized endorsements (hazmat, tanker), or owner-operator status can earn significantly more.
Using This Tool
This interactive tool helps visualize long-term salary patterns by state and experience level, making it easier to evaluate job offers, plan relocations, or negotiate rates in the trucking industry.
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