Thinking about a career in trucking or considering a job change? One of the first questions most drivers ask is: how much does trucking pay where I live? In 2025, truck driver salaries vary significantly depending on the state, type of freight, and driving experience. Whether you’re a seasoned OTR pro or a new CDL holder, understanding regional pay differences can help you make smart career decisions.
What Influences Truck Driver Pay by State?
Several factors drive salary differences across states:
- Cost of living
- Freight demand
- Type of driving
- Driver shortage levels
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national median pay for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in 2024 was $53,560 per year, or about $25.75 per hour. But let’s break it down further by state.
Highest Paying States for Truck Drivers in 2025
StateAverage Annual SalaryNotes
| Washington | $68,400 | Strong port activity + unionized carriers |
| New York | $67,500 | Higher urban wages, dense freight zones |
| North Dakota | $66,000 | Oil field and seasonal freight boosts |
| Illinois | $65,200 | Major Midwest hub + warehousing growth |
| California | $64,700 | Port demand + high freight volume |
| New Jersey | $63,900 | Dense urban markets + major distribution centers |
| Massachusetts | $63,500 | High cost of living + regional LTL demand |
| Oregon | $62,800 | West Coast freight corridors |
| Connecticut | $62,100 | Regional hauls + Northeast demand |
| Pennsylvania | $61,800 | Strong manufacturing and distribution market |
Tip: OTR drivers in these states often have access to bonuses and per diem programs.
Southern Region Truck Driver Pay
The Southern U.S. is a powerhouse region for trucking, with massive freight corridors, port access, and high driver demand. While the average pay is slightly below the national highs, the South offers strong job stability, frequent home time, and lower living costs—making it a top choice for many drivers.StateAverage Annual Salary (2025)Notes
| Texas | $58,400 | Largest trucking workforce + diverse freight markets |
| Oklahoma | $51,900 | Central freight hub + growing oil industry |
| Louisiana | $52,500 | Port access + Gulf Coast freight |
| Alabama | $51,500 | Key distribution networks + lower living costs |
| Georgia | $56,200 | Atlanta is a major national trucking hub |
| Northern Florida | $55,700 | Port of Jacksonville + high regional freight |
Why drivers love the South:
- Access to major freight lanes (I-10, I-20, I-40, I-75, I-95)
- Strong mix of regional and OTR opportunities
- Year-round driving weather
- High availability of local and dedicated routes
States with Lower Truck Driver Pay
StateAverage Salary (2025)
| Mississippi | $49,500 |
| Arkansas | $50,000 |
| West Virginia | $50,200 |
| Kentucky | $51,000 |
| South Dakota | $51,300 |
| Alabama | $51,500 |
| Oklahoma | $51,900 |
| Missouri | $52,200 |
| Kansas | $52,400 |
| Louisiana | $52,500 |
Note: Lower-salary states often balance earnings with low living costs, excellent home time, and strong regional driving markets.
How to Maximize Your Salary as a Truck Driver
- Add CDL Endorsements – Guide to CDL endorsements
- Go OTR or Specialized
- Gain Experience
- Lease Purchase Programs – Explore lease purchase opportunities
Choosing the Right State for Your Trucking Career
Drivers 1st matches drivers with jobs that fit their lifestyle preferences: home time, pay, route type, and more.
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Conclusion: Follow the Freight, Follow the Money
From the oil fields of North Dakota to the Southern freight corridors of Texas and Georgia, truck drivers who align their career plans with market demand are thriving. Drivers 1st can help you take the next step.
Ready to find a high-paying CDL job near you?
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For more updates and insights into the trucking world, stay tuned to Drivers1st.com!Â