The Bureau of Labor Statistics released data in April 2023 about rising wages in the previous year for many careers, including truck drivers. In 2022, the average pay for truck drivers increased to $53,090. This is great news for anybody considering starting a career as a truck driver. In 2021, truck drivers earned on average $50,340, and $48,710 in 2020.
Top States for Truck Drivers
Here are the states where the most truck drivers live:
- Texas - 210,940
- California - 186,140
- Florida - 99,490
- Ohio - 91,240
The states with the most employed truck drivers have a high concentration of logistics companies. These states, especially Texas and California, have very high population densities as well.
The highest paying states for truck drivers:
- Nebraska - $63,560
- Washington - $60,210
- Alaska - $59,510
- New Jersey - $59,380
States that have higher wages for truck drivers also have a very high demand for drivers. Some of these states also have a higher cost of living, meaning that most residents in these states earn more.
The Top Industries for Truck Drivers
The industries that have the most truck drivers:
- Truck Transportation - 897,370
- Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods - 99,680
- Warehousing and Storage - 84,650
- Nonmetallic Mineral Product Manufacturing - 77,550
The industries that pay truck drivers the most:
- Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution - $75,170
- Telecommunications - $71,770
- Support Activities for Water Transportation - $68,440
- Rail Transportation - $66,490
The Future of Employment for Truck Drivers
Over the next 10 years, the number of truck driving jobs is expected to grow by 4 percent. This growth is about average for all occupations. However, the demand for truck drivers is expected to grow. As the demand for goods from households and businesses continues to grow, the demand for truck drivers will also increase.
As wages are projected to rise for truck drivers, it’s a great time to find a trucking job near you now!
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