Bus Driver Salaries

Updated on Feb 08, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Bus Driver make?

The average salary for a Bus Driver is $43,367 per year in the US.

Bus drivers earn a competitive salary that can vary based on experience, location, and the company they work for. According to the data, the average yearly salary for a bus driver is approximately $43,367. This figure reflects the income of drivers at different stages of their careers.


Entry-level bus drivers typically start with a salary around $24,000. As they gain experience, earnings increase. For example, after a few years, a bus driver might earn about $35,373. Drivers reaching higher levels of experience can earn upwards of $61,909 annually.


In summary, bus driving can offer a stable career with opportunities for financial growth as one gains more experience and skill. Many drivers find satisfaction in their roles and enjoy the daily interactions with passengers.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Bus Driver?

Bus drivers can find some of the best-paying opportunities in cities like San Francisco, CA, where the average salary reaches $65,639. Other cities, such as San Jose, CA, and Greeley, CO, also offer competitive wages, with averages of $60,076 and $57,166 respectively. Seeking employment in these locations can lead to a rewarding career with higher earning potential.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bus Driver jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $65,639 and Seattle, WA with the lowest at $52,346.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $65,639
    Driving in San Francisco offers a vibrant urban experience. Major transit companies like Muni provide opportunities for drivers to connect with diverse communities and passengers.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $60,076
    In San Jose, you can enjoy a tech-savvy environment while driving. Local services, including VTA, need skilled drivers to help transport residents in this bustling city.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. Greeley, CO
    Average Salary: $57,166
    Greeley provides a friendly small-town feel with the chance to drive for local districts. The community values accessible transport, making it a rewarding place for drivers.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Greeley, CO


  4. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $56,355
    Working as a driver in Stockton allows you to serve a growing community. The San Joaquin Regional Transit District looks for dedicated drivers to meet rising transportation needs.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Stockton, CA


  5. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $55,700
    Santa Rosa offers a scenic backdrop for your driving career. Local transit services appreciate drivers who can help connect residents to the beautiful parks and vineyards in the area.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  6. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $55,180
    Driving in Buffalo allows you to experience the rich culture and history of this city. Local agencies, including NFTA, rely on drivers to provide safe and efficient transport.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Buffalo, NY


  7. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $54,306
    In Boston, you can navigate historic streets while connecting with a diverse population. The MBTA provides a strong demand for skilled drivers to support daily commuters.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Boston, MA


  8. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $53,594
    Portland is known for its eco-friendly transport options. Driving for TriMet means you contribute to sustainable commuting while enjoying the city's beautiful surroundings.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Portland, OR


  9. Rochester, NY
    Average Salary: $53,159
    Rochester features a welcoming environment for drivers. The Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority is always looking for dedicated individuals to help serve the community.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Rochester, NY


  10. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $52,346
    Seattle's vibrant city life allows drivers to explore a mix of urban culture and stunning landscapes. Companies like King County Metro depend on skilled drivers to connect the city.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Seattle, WA

What are the best companies a Bus Driver can work for?

Bus drivers can earn impressive salaries with top companies in the industry. Zum Services, Inc. leads the way with an average salary of $67,021, closely followed by LUX BUS AMERICA at $64,939. Other notable companies such as Bauer's Intelligent Transportation and Trailways of New York also offer competitive pay, ensuring that professional drivers can find rewarding positions.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bus Driver jobs, highlighting Zum Services, Inc with the highest at $67,021 and Greyhound with the lowest at $59,991.
  1. Zum Services, Inc
    Average Salary: $67,021
    Zum Services, Inc offers competitive salaries for Bus Drivers, averaging $67,021 per year. The company focuses on providing safe and reliable transportation for students and families. They operate primarily in urban areas across California.


  2. LUX BUS AMERICA
    Average Salary: $64,939
    LUX BUS AMERICA provides Bus Drivers with an average salary of $64,939. The company specializes in charter and tour bus services, with operations in California and the western United States. They emphasize luxury travel for their passengers.


  3. Bauer's Intelligent Transportation, Inc.
    Average Salary: $64,199
    Bauer's Intelligent Transportation, Inc. pays its Bus Drivers around $64,199 annually. The company focuses on innovative transport solutions and operates in various regions, including California. They prioritize customer satisfaction and employee safety.


  4. Trailways of New York
    Average Salary: $61,763
    At Trailways of New York, Bus Drivers earn an average salary of $61,763. This company is known for its intercity bus services and provides travel across New York State. They focus on delivering quality service to their customers.


  5. HALLCON
    Average Salary: $61,430
    HALLCON offers an average salary of $61,430 for its Bus Drivers. The company specializes in transportation solutions for rail and commercial clients, with services in various states across the U.S. They value safety and punctuality.


  6. NRT Bus, Inc.
    Average Salary: $61,361
    NRT Bus, Inc. pays its Bus Drivers an average of $61,361 annually. The company focuses on providing school transport services, operating primarily in the Northeast region. They are committed to ensuring safe transport for students.


  7. West County Transportation Agency
    Average Salary: $61,240
    West County Transportation Agency provides Bus Drivers with an average salary of $61,240. This organization focuses on public transit in Sonoma County, California. They aim to create an efficient and effective transportation network.


  8. Yankee Line
    Average Salary: $60,833
    Yankee Line employs Bus Drivers with an average salary of $60,833. The company offers charter bus services and operates in the New England area. They are known for their reliable and comfortable travel experiences.


  9. Ace Express Coaches
    Average Salary: $60,000
    At Ace Express Coaches, Bus Drivers earn an average of $60,000 per year. This company provides charter bus services across the East Coast and focuses on customer satisfaction and safety.


  10. Greyhound
    Average Salary: $59,991
    Greyhound offers an average salary of $59,991 for its Bus Drivers. As one of the most recognized names in intercity bus transportation, Greyhound operates across North America, providing affordable travel options for millions.

How to earn more as a Bus Driver?

To increase your earnings as a bus driver, consider the following factors:
  1. Experience: More years on the job often lead to higher pay. Focus on gaining experience by staying with the same company or taking on additional routes.
  2. Certification: Obtain additional certifications, such as for passenger transit or safety training. These can make you eligible for higher-paying roles.
  3. Shift Selection: Working during peak hours or overtime can boost your pay. Look for opportunities to take on extra shifts when possible.
  4. Geographic Location: Pay rates vary by region. Explore job openings in areas with higher demand for bus drivers, which usually offer better salaries.
  5. Union Membership: Join a union if available. They can negotiate better pay and benefits on behalf of their members.

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Currently 1,517 Bus Driver job openings, nationwide!

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Bus Driver
1,517 Job Openings