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How much does a Bus Driver make?

The average salary for a Bus Driver is $44,115 per year in the US.

Bus drivers play a vital role in our communities. They ensure people get to work, school, and other important places. The average yearly salary for a bus driver is around $44,115. This means that, on average, bus drivers earn a steady income each year.

The salary for bus drivers can vary based on experience and location. Some drivers may earn more, especially if they have many years of experience. Others may earn less, particularly if they are just starting out. Here are some common salary ranges for bus drivers:

  • 10% earn $24,000 or less
  • 25% earn between $24,000 and $31,787
  • 50% earn between $31,787 and $43,468
  • 75% earn between $43,468 and $51,255
  • 90% earn $51,255 or more
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What are the highest paying cities for a Bus Driver?

Bus drivers in San Francisco, CA, earn the highest average salary among the listed cities. With an average salary of $64,829, this city offers a strong financial incentive for those in the field. Santa Rosa, CA, and San Jose, CA, follow closely, providing competitive wages for bus drivers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bus Driver jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $64,829 and Seattle, WA with the lowest at $55,210.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $64,829
    In San Francisco, driving a bus offers a unique experience with its hilly terrain and iconic landmarks. Companies like Muni provide a chance to navigate through vibrant neighborhoods and tourist spots. The city's public transport system is well-regarded, offering a stable work environment.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $62,652
    Santa Rosa provides a more relaxed pace for bus drivers. Working with Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) allows for scenic routes and a close-knit community feel. The area's natural beauty and growing tech industry add to the charm of the job.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $62,357
    San Jose offers a dynamic environment for bus drivers. With companies like VTA, drivers navigate through a bustling tech hub. The city's diverse culture and vibrant community make for an engaging work experience.
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  4. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $59,539
    Stockton provides a steady job with a strong sense of community. Working with the San Joaquin RTD, drivers enjoy a mix of urban and rural routes. The city's growing economy and friendly residents create a welcoming atmosphere.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Stockton, CA


  5. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $58,100
    In Worcester, bus drivers enjoy a mix of urban and suburban routes. Working with the Worcester Regional Transit Authority, drivers navigate through historic neighborhoods and modern developments. The city's rich culture and strong community ties enhance the job experience.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Worcester, MA


  6. Greeley, CO
    Average Salary: $56,972
    Greeley offers a peaceful environment for bus drivers. Working with Transfort, drivers enjoy a mix of rural and urban routes. The city's friendly community and beautiful landscapes make for a pleasant work experience.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Greeley, CO


  7. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $56,694
    Portland provides a vibrant setting for bus drivers. Working with TriMet, drivers navigate through a city known for its eco-friendliness and cultural diversity. The city's progressive atmosphere and scenic routes add to the appeal of the job.
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  8. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $55,743
    Buffalo offers a mix of urban and suburban routes for bus drivers. Working with NFTA, drivers navigate through a city with a rich industrial history and a strong sense of community. The city's resilience and welcoming nature make for a fulfilling job experience.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Buffalo, NY


  9. Visalia, CA
    Average Salary: $55,318
    Visalia provides a stable job with a strong sense of community. Working with Visalia Transit, drivers enjoy a mix of rural and urban routes. The city's agricultural roots and friendly residents create a welcoming atmosphere.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Visalia, CA


  10. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $55,210
    Seattle offers a dynamic environment for bus drivers. Working with King County Metro, drivers navigate through a city known for its innovation and natural beauty. The city's vibrant culture and scenic routes add to the appeal of the job.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Seattle, WA

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

Manassas City Public Schools offers one of the highest salaries for bus drivers, with an average of $70,036. Craven County Schools also provides a competitive salary, averaging $65,752. HALLCON follows closely with an average salary of $64,981. These companies value their drivers and offer attractive compensation packages. Arlington Central School District and A&A Metro Transportation both offer average salaries around $64,700. Zum Services, Inc. and Berkeley Unified School District provide average salaries of $62,938 and $62,644, respectively. Ace Express Coaches and Greeley-Evans School District 6 offer salaries of $62,487 and $61,981. NRT Bus, Inc. rounds out the list with an average salary of $59,967. These companies recognize the importance of their drivers and offer fair compensation.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bus Driver jobs, highlighting Manassas City Public Schools with the highest at $70,036 and NRT Bus, Inc. with the lowest at $59,967.
  1. Manassas City Public Schools
    Average Salary: $70,036
    Manassas City Public Schools offers rewarding Bus Driver jobs. They operate in Manassas City, Virginia. The company values safety and community service. Drivers work with students and staff to ensure a smooth school day.


  2. Craven County Schools
    Average Salary: $65,752
    Craven County Schools provides Bus Driver positions in North Carolina. They serve multiple locations in Craven County. The company focuses on student safety and punctuality. Drivers play a key role in the daily school commute.


  3. HALLCON
    Average Salary: $64,981
    HALLCON offers Bus Driver jobs with a focus on safety and reliability. They operate in various locations across the United States. The company emphasizes teamwork and customer service. Drivers work with diverse communities.


  4. Arlington Central School District
    Average Salary: $64,734
    Arlington Central School District provides Bus Driver jobs in New York. They serve multiple towns in the district. The company values safety and efficiency. Drivers ensure students reach school safely each day.


  5. A&A Metro Transportation
    Average Salary: $64,727
    A&A Metro Transportation offers Bus Driver positions in various locations. They focus on providing reliable transportation services. The company values punctuality and customer satisfaction. Drivers work with a diverse group of passengers.


  6. Zum Services, Inc
    Average Salary: $62,938
    Zum Services, Inc. offers Bus Driver jobs with a focus on safety and efficiency. They operate in various locations across the United States. The company values teamwork and customer service. Drivers ensure a smooth ride for students and commuters.


  7. Berkeley Unified School District
    Average Salary: $62,644
    Berkeley Unified School District provides Bus Driver jobs in California. They serve the Berkeley area. The company emphasizes safety and reliability. Drivers play a crucial role in student transportation.


  8. Ace Express Coaches
    Average Salary: $62,487
    Ace Express Coaches offers Bus Driver positions with a focus on safety and customer service. They operate in various locations. The company values punctuality and professionalism. Drivers ensure a comfortable journey for passengers.


  9. Greeley-Evans School District 6
    Average Salary: $61,981
    Greeley-Evans School District 6 provides Bus Driver jobs in Colorado. They serve multiple towns in the district. The company values safety and efficiency. Drivers ensure students reach school safely each day.


  10. NRT Bus, Inc.
    Average Salary: $59,967
    NRT Bus, Inc. offers Bus Driver positions with a focus on safety and reliability. They operate in various locations. The company values teamwork and customer service. Drivers ensure a smooth ride for students and commuters.

How to earn more as a Bus Driver?

Becoming a bus driver can be a rewarding career. It offers stability and the chance to earn more. Here are some ways to increase earnings in this profession.

First, gaining experience can lead to higher pay. Many companies offer pay increases for drivers with more years on the job. Second, working extra shifts, such as weekends or overtime, can boost income. Third, taking on additional responsibilities, like being a lead driver, can lead to higher pay. Fourth, getting specialized certifications, such as for school bus driving, can open up higher-paying opportunities. Lastly, working for private companies instead of public transit can sometimes offer better wages.

Consider these factors to maximize earnings as a bus driver. With dedication and the right strategies, it is possible to increase income in this field.

  1. Gain experience to earn higher pay.
  2. Work extra shifts for more income.
  3. Take on additional responsibilities.
  4. Get specialized certifications.
  5. Work for private companies.

Currently 2,607 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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Bus Driver
2,607 Job Openings