Couriers and Messengers Salary 2025: $39,200 Median Pay, 8.2% Growth
Couriers and Messengers earn a median salary of $39,200 per year, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to about $19 an hour, with most workers earning between $31,550 and $50,330. Employment in this occupation sits at 68,640 jobs nationwide, and the field is projected to grow much faster than average through 2034.
How much Couriers and Messengers earn
The median annual wage for Couriers and Messengers is $39,200. The mean hourly wage is $19.70. At the low end, the 10th percentile earns about $31,550, while the top 10% make upwards of $50,330. Typical pay varies by experience, location, and employer type—couriers working for specialized delivery services or in high-cost areas tend to earn more.
- Median salary: $39,200 per year
- Typical range: $31,550 to $50,330
- Mean hourly wage: $19.70
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot for a courier's paycheck. The highest-paying state is Nevada, with an average salary of $46,520. Washington follows close behind at $46,500, then Vermont ($45,600), District of Columbia ($45,210), and Oregon ($45,170). On the lower end, Louisiana averages $33,490, Wyoming $31,680, and South Dakota $31,650. That's a spread of nearly $15,000 between the top and bottom states.
How to become a Courier and Messenger
Becoming a courier or messenger typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. The most important qualification is a valid driver's license and a clean driving record—most employers require this. Many positions also require you to be at least 18 or 21 years old (for insurance reasons). On-the-job training is common, lasting a few days to a week. Some couriers start with delivery apps or small local services to gain experience. No formal certification is mandatory, but a defensive driving course or DOT medical card (if driving larger vehicles) can be a plus.
- Minimum education: High school diploma
- Key requirements: Valid driver's license, clean driving record, minimum age (often 18-21)
- Training: Short on-the-job training (usually under a week)
- Optional: Defensive driving certification, DOT medical card
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for Couriers and Messengers to grow 8.2% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That's expected to create about 27,900 job openings each year, mostly due to workers leaving the occupation or retiring. The growth is driven by e-commerce demand and local delivery services. However, automation and drone delivery could slow growth in the longer term.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for Couriers and Messengers?
Nevada pays the highest average salary at $46,520 per year, followed closely by Washington ($46,500) and Vermont ($45,600).
Do Couriers and Messengers need a degree?
No, a high school diploma is typically sufficient. The main requirements are a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and being at least the minimum age set by the employer.
What is the job growth for Couriers and Messengers?
The occupation is projected to grow 8.2% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with roughly 27,900 openings per year.
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 Couriers and Messengers data.