Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity Salary 2025: $59,050 median, fastest growth in decades
The median salary for U.S. transit and intercity bus drivers is $59,050 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $28 an hour. The typical range runs from $40,030 at the 10th percentile to $84,700 at the 90th percentile, so pay varies widely by location, employer, and experience. About 159,240 people hold these jobs nationwide.
How much Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity earn
The mean annual wage is $60,280, or $28.98 per hour. Half of all drivers earn between the 25th and 75th percentiles, roughly $48,000 to $72,000. Top earners in high-cost cities or with seniority can clear $84,700. Entry-level positions typically start around $40,000.
Pay often includes overtime, shift differentials, and premium pay for holidays or weekends. Many unionized public transit agencies offer higher wages and better benefits than private intercity operators.
Pay by state
New York tops the list with an average salary of $84,480, reflecting strong unions and high demand in metro areas like New York City. Washington state follows at $72,280, then Hawaii at $68,500, California at $67,130, and Oregon at $65,510.
At the low end, Mississippi averages $38,570, Alabama $37,700, and Arkansas $37,520. These states have lower costs of living but also lower transit wages. Note that the median national figure ($59,050) is pulled up by high-paying states.
How to become Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity
Entry typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a commercial driver’s license (CDL) with passenger and air brake endorsements. Many transit agencies and bus companies provide paid CDL training – some even require as little as two weeks of classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction.
Federal rules mandate a minimum age of 18 for intrastate driving and 21 for interstate. Most employers also require a clean driving record, a drug test, and passing a physical exam. Experience driving larger vehicles can help, but many start with no experience. Some cities ask for a “passenger endorsement” plus a separate “school bus” endorsement if applicable.
- Complete a high school diploma or GED.
- Obtain a CDL with Passenger (P) endorsement and air brake restriction removal.
- Pass a DOT physical, drug screen, and background check.
- Complete employer-provided training (usually 2–6 weeks).
- Optional: earn a transit-specific certificate or associate degree for advancement.
Job outlook
BLS projects employment of transit and intercity bus drivers will grow 4.3% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 20,900 openings each year, mostly from retirements and turnover. Census data shows aging public transit infrastructure and growing demand in suburban commuter routes will sustain hiring.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity?
The mean hourly wage is $28.98, based on a national average annual salary of $60,280. Entry-level drivers earn about $19–$20 per hour, while top earners make over $40 per hour.
Do transit bus drivers need a CDL?
Yes. You must hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a passenger (P) endorsement. Many states also require an air brake endorsement. Most employers help you get the license.
Is bus driving a growing career?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 4.3% over the next decade, faster than average. About 20,900 job openings are expected annually due to growth and replacement needs.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity data.