Truck Driver Salaries: Long-Haul vs. Local Delivery

Heavy truck drivers keep the U.S. supply chain moving. The persistent driver shortage — driven by demographic turnover, demanding working conditions, and the CDL licensing barrier — has pushed wages up significantly over the past several years. BLS OEWS data captures this trend in the annual wage statistics.

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer vs. Light Delivery

BLS distinguishes between heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers (Class A CDL, long-haul or regional routes) and light truck and delivery services drivers. The heavy driver category earns substantially more, reflecting longer time away from home, the difficulty of the CDL-A credential, and the physical demands of over-the-road work.

Company Driver vs. Owner-Operator

BLS OEWS captures wages for employed drivers — not self-employed owner-operators, whose gross revenue and net income can vary dramatically based on fuel costs, maintenance, and load availability. Many experienced drivers find owner-operator status more lucrative; others prefer the stability of company employment.

Top-Paying States

Alaska typically ranks highest for truck driver wages due to challenging conditions and remote delivery requirements. North Dakota and Wyoming have historically shown elevated wages driven by energy sector freight demand. Browse the Transportation and Material Moving Occupations group for full data.