Best States for Truck Drivers (Highest Paying)
Where you work changes truck driver pay more than almost any other factor. Alaska leads at $68,000 — roughly 31% above the national median of $52,000.
Top 10 highest paying states
Ranked by median annual salary for truck drivers:
- 1. Alaska — $68,000 median
- 2. North Dakota — $62,000 median
- 3. Washington — $60,000 median
- 4. New York — $58,000 median
- 5. New Jersey — $58,000 median
- 6. California — $56,000 median
- 7. Illinois — $54,000 median
- 8. Texas — $52,000 median
- 9. Ohio — $50,000 median
- 10. Florida — $48,000 median
Why pay varies so much by state
Three things drive the spread: local demand, licensing rules and cost of labor. States with strict licensing and high demand tend to pay a premium because the supply of qualified workers is limited.
Metro areas inside a state can differ by another 15–25%, so treat state medians as a starting point rather than a guarantee.
Salary versus cost of living
High-paying coastal states usually carry high housing costs. A $68,000 salary in Alaska can leave you with less disposable income than a mid-tier state paying $54,600.
Run the numbers on rent, state income tax and commute before you decide to relocate.
Frequently asked questions
Which state pays truck drivers the most?
Alaska, with a median salary of $68,000 per year.
What is the average truck driver salary in the US?
The national median is $52,000 per year.
See full truck driver salary data
Compare pay by state and experience level with our truck driver salary page or the salary calculator.