Semi truck drivers in the United States make a wide range of salaries depending on factors like experience, location, type of driving, and employer. Here are key figures from recent data:
- The average annual salary for a semi truck driver is around $61,000 to $93,000 per year. For example, one source cites an average of $61,356 per year, while another reports about $93,190 per year
- Hourly wages typically range from about $20 to $31 per hour, with median hourly wages around $24 to $26. For instance, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median hourly wage of $26.12 for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in 2023
- Owner-operator drivers who own their trucks can earn significantly more, with averages cited around $147 per hour or $343,000 per year, though this varies widely due to expenses and business risks
- Specialized driving jobs, such as hauling specialty vehicles or hazardous materials, tend to pay higher, with some specialty drivers earning around $48 per hour or $96,000 annually
- Salaries vary by region, with states like South Dakota, North Dakota, and Nebraska offering higher pay due to more open highway miles
- Team drivers who drive with a partner can earn between $54,000 and $189,000 annually, depending on the route and employer
- Entry-level or local drivers may earn less, around $20 to $25 per hour, while experienced drivers or those working for major companies can earn more, sometimes up to $127,000 annually or higher
In summary, semi truck drivers typically make between $50,000 and $100,000 per year, with potential to earn more based on ownership, specialization, and location. Hourly pay generally ranges from $20 to over $30, with owner- operators and specialty drivers earning the highest wages
