Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers Salary Guide 2025: $58,640 Median, Top States Paying Over $70K
The median annual pay for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in the U.S. is $58,640, according to 2024 BLS data. That works out to roughly $28 per hour for a typical full-time schedule. With over 2 million drivers employed nationwide and 237,600 openings projected each year, this remains one of the largest occupations in the country.
How much Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $59,710, with half of all drivers earning between $40,140 (10th percentile) and $79,380 (90th percentile). New drivers typically start near the lower end, while experienced drivers with hazmat endorsements or long-haul routes can hit the high end.
Pay varies by industry. Drivers in specialized freight, such as tanker or refrigerated loads, often earn above the median. Unionized jobs in ports or large carriers also tend to pay more.
- Median: $58,640
- 10th percentile: $40,140
- 90th percentile: $79,380
- Mean hourly: ~$28.70
Pay by state
Alaska tops the list at $70,100 median, driven by remote routes and cost-of-living adjustments. Washington ($64,760), D.C. ($64,170), New Jersey ($63,570), and Massachusetts ($63,030) round out the top five.
Lower-paying states include New Mexico ($50,500), West Virginia ($49,480), and Louisiana ($49,320). These states have less demand or lower cost structures, but also lower barriers to entry.
How to become Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver
You need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate heavy trucks. The process involves: meeting federal age (21 for interstate, 18 for intrastate) and health requirements, completing a certified training program (many community colleges and private schools offer 3-8 week courses), and passing a written and skills test.
Employers typically require a clean driving record. Endorsements for hazmat, tanker, or double/triple trailers can boost pay. Most new drivers start with regional carriers and build seniority.
- Attend a CDL training program (160+ hours required by FMCSA).
- Pass the CDL knowledge and skills test. States like Texas and Florida process licenses quickly.
- Get endorsements for better pay (hazmat, tanker, etc.).
- Apply to carriers; many offer paid training or tuition reimbursement.
Job outlook
Employment for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is projected to grow 4% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS expects about 237,600 openings each year, mostly due to retirements and turnover.
E-commerce and supply chain resilience keep demand steady. However, automation poses a long-term risk; driver shortages persist in certain regions, which supports pay growth.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary range for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in 2025?
Based on BLS data, the 10th percentile earns $40,140, the median $58,640, and the 90th percentile $79,380. Top earners often have endorsements and experience.
How do I become a heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver?
You must obtain a CDL (Commercial Driver's License). This requires training (often a 3-8 week course), passing written and driving tests, and meeting federal health and age requirements. Many employers sponsor training.
What is the job growth outlook for truck drivers?
The BLS projects 4% growth from 2024 to 2034, with about 237,600 openings per year. Demand is driven by e-commerce and supply chain needs.
Which states pay truck drivers the most?
Alaska ($70,100), Washington ($64,760), D.C. ($64,170), New Jersey ($63,570), and Massachusetts ($63,030). The lowest are New Mexico ($50,500), West Virginia ($49,480), and Louisiana ($49,320).
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 Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers data.