Truck Driver Hourly Rate & Salary (2026)
Truck drivers transport goods across cities, states, and regions. Long-haul (OTR) drivers can earn significantly more than local delivery drivers. The profession faces a persistent shortage, driving wages up.
Truck Driver Pay — Key Facts (2026)
Truck Driver Salary Range (2026)
After-tax estimates are for single filers in states with no income tax (TX, FL, NV, WA). State income tax reduces these figures further.
Truck Driver Salary Range — Visual Breakdown
The chart below shows how Truck Driver pay is distributed across experience levels, from entry-level to top earners.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024. National figures for all industries.
Monthly Budget on a Truck Driver Salary
At the median Truck Driver salary of $47,130/year, your monthly take-home is approximately $3,337 (single filer, no state income tax). Here is how that breaks down across common budget categories following the 50/30/20 guideline:
Budget assumes no state income tax (TX, FL, NV, WA). State taxes reduce take-home. Use the after-tax calculator for your state.
Housing Affordability on a Truck Driver Salary
The 28% rule states your monthly housing cost should not exceed 28% of gross monthly income. At the median Truck Driver salary, here is what that means:
These figures use national averages with no state income tax. In high-cost states like California or New York, the same salary produces less after-tax income. In lower-cost states like Texas, Florida, or the Midwest, a Truck Driver salary typically goes significantly further.
Overtime Pay for Truck Drivers
At time-and-a-half, Truck Drivers earning the median $23/hr receive $35/hr for overtime hours. Here is what overtime adds to annual net income at your marginal federal rate:
Net estimated at ~28% effective marginal rate (22% federal + FICA). Actual net varies by total income and state.
Calculate Your Truck Driver Take-Home Pay
Use the links below to see your exact after-tax pay at common Truck Driver salary levels:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a truck driver make per hour?
Local truck drivers earn a median of $23/hour. Long-haul (OTR) drivers often earn $0.50–$0.70/mile, which translates to $25–$35/hour based on typical mileage. Company drivers with experience and hazmat endorsements can earn $30–$40/hour.
How much is a truck driver's salary after tax?
On a $47,130 median salary, a single filer in a no-tax state takes home roughly $36,500/year. OTR truck drivers who qualify for per diem deductions can significantly reduce their taxable income, increasing net pay.
How much do owner-operator truck drivers make?
Owner-operators gross $100,000–$200,000+/year but have significant expenses (truck payments, fuel, insurance, maintenance). Net income after expenses is often $50,000–$80,000. However, they also build equity in their truck and have more scheduling flexibility.
Is truck driving a good career in 2026?
Yes — there's a persistent nationwide driver shortage, wages are rising, and CDL training takes only a few months. Starting pay has improved significantly; many companies now offer $0.60–$0.65/mile plus bonuses. With experience, top earners reach $70,000–$90,000/year.
Compare to Other Professions
Truck Driver Take-Home by State
See how the $47,130 median Truck Driver salary plays out after tax in major states:
Truck Driver Hourly Rate Pages
Explore after-tax take-home at different points in the Truck Driver pay range:
Tools
Data Sources & Methodology
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) 2024: National median wages, salary ranges, and employment growth projections
- IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32: 2026 federal income tax brackets and standard deduction ($16,100 single)
- Social Security Administration: 2026 FICA rates (SS 6.2% up to $184,500; Medicare 1.45%)
- After-tax estimates assume single filer, standard deduction, no state income tax. Actual take-home varies by state, filing status, and pre-tax deductions.