CDL Driver Salaries

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a CDL Driver make?

The average salary for a CDL Driver is $117,084 per year in the US.

CDL drivers earn a wide range of salaries depending on their experience, location, and the type of driving they do. The average yearly salary for a CDL driver is about $117,084. Many drivers start at lower salaries, while experienced drivers can earn significantly more.


For instance, the starting salary can be as low as $34,000, while the highest earners make up to $455,000 annually. This salary range shows that there are many opportunities for growth in this field. Drivers working in specialized roles or those with advanced skills often earn higher salaries.


Many CDL drivers also enjoy benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, making this profession attractive. With the right skills and dedication, CDL drivers can build successful careers and earn a comfortable living.

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What are the highest paying cities for a CDL Driver?

For CDL drivers looking for high-paying opportunities, cities like Brownsville, TX, and McAllen, TX, lead the way with average salaries exceeding $197,000. Stamford, CT, and Tallahassee, FL, also offer strong pay, with averages around $168,000 and $165,000, respectively. Consider exploring positions in these cities to maximize your earning potential in the trucking industry.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for CDL Driver jobs, highlighting Brownsville, TX with the highest at $198,998 and Killeen, TX with the lowest at $147,003.
  1. Brownsville, TX
    Average Salary: $198,998
    Working as a truck driver in Brownsville offers a good opportunity to connect with local businesses and transport goods across the border. Companies like C.H. Robinson and local distribution centers rely on skilled drivers to support their operations.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Brownsville, TX


  2. McAllen, TX
    Average Salary: $197,338
    In McAllen, drivers play a key role in the local economy by ensuring timely delivery of products. The presence of major retailers like Walmart means there is a steady need for dependable transport services.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in McAllen, TX


  3. Stamford, CT
    Average Salary: $168,482
    Stamford boasts a strong logistics sector, making it a favorable location for drivers. The city is home to companies like UPS and FedEx, providing numerous driving positions with competitive pay.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Stamford, CT


  4. Tallahassee, FL
    Average Salary: $165,606
    Tallahassee offers a range of opportunities for drivers, particularly with local food distributors and retail companies. The city’s growing population fuels demand for reliable transportation services.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Tallahassee, FL


  5. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $164,852
    San Francisco presents a unique driving environment with its diverse businesses and beautiful scenery. Companies like Amazon and local startups frequently seek skilled drivers to support their logistics needs.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in San Francisco, CA


  6. Gainesville, FL
    Average Salary: $160,056
    In Gainesville, drivers contribute to both local businesses and the university community. The presence of grocery stores and delivery services ensures a steady demand for qualified drivers.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Gainesville, FL


  7. Lubbock, TX
    Average Salary: $155,483
    Lubbock is an excellent city for drivers, offering routes throughout Texas and beyond. Local companies in agriculture and wholesale distribution often look for reliable drivers to transport goods.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Lubbock, TX


  8. Miami, FL
    Average Salary: $152,781
    Working in Miami as a driver allows for interaction with a vibrant economy and diverse culture. The city's extensive logistics network, including companies like Ryder System, offers many job opportunities.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Miami, FL


  9. Corpus Christi, TX
    Average Salary: $151,286
    Corpus Christi features a robust shipping and transport industry, making it an ideal place for drivers. Companies involved in shipping and oil industries depend heavily on skilled drivers to manage their logistics.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Corpus Christi, TX


  10. Killeen, TX
    Average Salary: $147,003
    Killeen offers drivers a chance to work in a supportive community with a mix of military and civilian transport needs. The area's growth results in a constant need for transportation professionals across various industries.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Killeen, TX

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

For CDL drivers seeking high-paying opportunities, companies like Zero Max Inc stand out with an impressive average salary of $729,660. Other strong contenders include AGX Freight and Accel Logistics Inc, both offering average salaries of $520,000. Fast Lane Transport LLC also provides competitive pay, with an average salary close to $519,725, making these companies excellent choices for job seekers aiming to maximize their earning potential.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for CDL Driver jobs, highlighting Zero Max Inc with the highest at $729,660 and JLE Industries with the lowest at $367,089.
  1. Zero Max Inc
    Average Salary: $729,660
    Zero Max Inc offers CDL Driver jobs with high earning potential and great benefits. The company operates nationally, providing opportunities in various states and regions.


  2. AGX Freight
    Average Salary: $520,000
    AGX Freight is known for its competitive salaries and supportive work environment. CDL Drivers at AGX Freight work across the country, delivering freight to major hubs.


  3. Accel Logistics INC.
    Average Salary: $520,000
    Accel Logistics INC. values its CDL Drivers and offers attractive pay. The company operates in several key areas, allowing drivers to gain diverse experience on the road.


  4. Fast Lane Transport LLC.
    Average Salary: $519,725
    Fast Lane Transport LLC. provides CDL Drivers with excellent pay and benefits. Their operations span multiple regions, providing opportunities in various locations.


  5. Fox Freight, Inc.
    Average Salary: $450,112
    Fox Freight, Inc. focuses on customer satisfaction and driver wellbeing. CDL Drivers at this company work in numerous states, making it an ideal place for those seeking a stable career.


  6. Dispatching Enterprise Inc.
    Average Salary: $391,300
    Dispatching Enterprise Inc. employs skilled CDL Drivers who enjoy a dynamic work environment. The company has a presence in several key markets, enabling drivers to explore new routes.


  7. KDA Logistic Inc
    Average Salary: $390,000
    KDA Logistic Inc offers a supportive atmosphere for its CDL Drivers. The company operates in various regions, ensuring drivers have opportunities to grow within the industry.


  8. DSL Express
    Average Salary: $386,000
    DSL Express is recognized for its dedication to safety and efficiency. CDL Drivers at DSL Express work in diverse regions, contributing to their strong reputation in the industry.


  9. Evans Delivery Company
    Average Salary: $384,389
    Evans Delivery Company prioritizes driver satisfaction and competitive pay. They operate in multiple states, giving CDL Drivers a chance to travel and see different areas.


  10. JLE Industries
    Average Salary: $367,089
    JLE Industries values its CDL Drivers and creates a family-oriented work culture. The company operates extensively across the country, making it a great choice for drivers seeking stability.

How to earn more as a CDL Driver?

To earn more as a CDL driver, focus on several key factors that can increase your income and enhance your career. Here are five strategies to consider:
  • Gain Experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. As you drive longer and handle different types of freight, you become more valuable to employers.
  • Obtain Specialty Endorsements: Adding endorsements like Hazmat, Tanker, or Doubles can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Specialized loads often pay more than standard freight.
  • Consider Long-Distance Routes: Long-haul trucking jobs usually offer better pay than local routes. While it means being away from home for longer, the financial rewards can be significant.
  • Choose the Right Employer: Some companies offer better pay and benefits than others. Research companies and look for those known for rewarding their drivers well.
  • Build a Strong Reputation: Consistency, safety records, and good customer service can lead to higher-paying assignments and better job offers. Employers value reliable drivers and often reward them with higher wages.

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Currently 56,347 CDL Driver job openings, nationwide!

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Position
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CDL Driver
56,347 Job Openings