Bus Driver Salary in Tampa, FL

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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How much does a Bus Driver make in Tampa, FL?

The average salary for a Bus Driver is $35,382 per year in Tampa, FL.

In Tampa, FL, bus drivers earn a range of salaries based on experience and specific job responsibilities. The average yearly salary for a bus driver in this area is approximately $35,382. Many drivers start at around $24,000, while those with more experience can earn upwards of $47,000.


The pay scale shows a nice progression. A bus driver with a couple of years of experience can expect to make about $30,000. As drivers advance their skills and take on additional duties, they can see their earnings rise significantly. Those in higher-end positions may reach salaries near $47,000, making bus driving a stable career option in Tampa.


View Bus Driver Jobs in Tampa, FL

What are the highest paying cities for Bus Driver near Tampa, FL?

Bus drivers in Clearwater, FL, earn the highest average salary at $38,723. Following close behind, Saint Petersburg offers an average of $37,953. If you’re looking for solid pay in the area, consider these cities as promising options.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bus Driver jobs near Tampa, FL, highlighting Clearwater, FL with the highest at $38,723 and Brandon, FL with the lowest at $31,758.
  1. Clearwater, FL
    Average Salary: $38,723
    Working as a transit operator in Clearwater offers the chance to connect with the community and enjoy scenic routes along beautiful beaches. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority is a major employer, providing reliable transportation for residents and tourists alike.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Clearwater, FL


  2. Saint Petersburg, FL
    Average Salary: $37,953
    In Saint Petersburg, bus operations play a vital role in the city’s transportation network. Operators contribute to the accessibility of the area while working for the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, known for its friendly and diverse work environment.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Saint Petersburg, FL


  3. Wimauma, FL
    Average Salary: $36,704
    Driving a bus in Wimauma allows you to serve a growing community and support local residents in their daily commutes. This role can help enhance mobility and foster connections in a warm and welcoming environment.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Wimauma, FL


  4. Riverview, FL
    Average Salary: $35,411
    In Riverview, bus operators can make a significant impact by providing essential transportation services. Working for local transit authorities offers stable employment in a friendly, family-oriented community, where every trip helps residents reach their destinations safely.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Riverview, FL


  5. Brandon, FL
    Average Salary: $31,758
    Brandon's bus driving opportunities give professionals the chance to be part of a bustling suburban community. Local transit services prioritize safety and efficiency, allowing operators to play a key role in supporting daily travel for families and individuals.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Brandon, FL

What are the best paying companies for Bus Driver in Tampa, FL?

Bus drivers in Tampa, FL can find rewarding opportunities with several top-paying companies. Icon Preparatory School offers the highest average salary at around $38,464, followed closely by IDEA Public Schools at approximately $37,167. Other notable employers include The Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg and The Village Early Learning Center, providing competitive pay for dedicated drivers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bus Driver jobs in Tampa, FL, highlighting Icon Preparatory School with the highest at $38,464 and Focus Academy with the lowest at $24,667.
  1. Icon Preparatory School
    Average Salary: $38,464
    Icon Preparatory School offers competitive salaries for Bus Drivers, averaging $38,464 annually. The school serves the Tampa area, providing safe and reliable transportation for students. Bus Drivers play a vital role in ensuring timely arrival for students in the local community.


  2. IDEA Public Schools
    Average Salary: $37,167
    IDEA Public Schools values its Bus Drivers, who earn around $37,167 per year. The company operates several schools in Tampa, focusing on student success. Bus Drivers are essential in maintaining a positive school experience by ensuring safe travel for students.


  3. The Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg
    Average Salary: $32,500
    The Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg provides an average salary of $32,500 for Bus Drivers. This organization manages various schools in the Tampa area, where Bus Drivers support students by delivering them safely to and from school.


  4. The Village Early Learning Center
    Average Salary: $32,000
    Bus Drivers at The Village Early Learning Center earn approximately $32,000 a year. This center operates in Tampa, focusing on early childhood education. Bus Drivers contribute significantly to the center's mission by ensuring children arrive safely for their learning experiences.


  5. AMIkids
    Average Salary: $30,850
    AMIkids pays its Bus Drivers an average of $30,850 annually. This organization serves at-risk youth in Tampa, and Bus Drivers play an important role in providing transportation for students who participate in various programs.


  6. Focus Academy
    Average Salary: $24,667
    Focus Academy offers a starting salary of about $24,667 for Bus Drivers. Located in Tampa, the academy emphasizes individualized education. Bus Drivers help ensure that students with diverse needs have access to their educational opportunities.

There are 1,963 Bus Driver job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Bus Driver in the US?

Learn what a Bus Driver does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Bus Driver today.
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