Bus Driver Salaries

Position

Salary

How much does a Bus Driver make?

The average salary for a Bus Driver is $45,006 per year in the US.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Bus Driver positions, showing an average salary of $45,006 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Bus Driver positions, showing an average salary of $45,006 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Bus Driver positions, showing an average salary of $45,006 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Bus Driver positions, showing an average salary of $45,006 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Bus drivers play a key role in keeping cities moving. They earn a decent salary, which helps them support their families and enjoy their lives. On average, bus drivers make about $45,006 per year. This figure can change based on experience and location.

Here is a closer look at how much bus drivers make based on their years of experience:

0–1 year: $24,000
1–2 years: $28,166
2–3 years: $32,333
3–4 years: $36,499
4–5 years: $40,665
5–6 years: $44,832
6–7 years: $48,998
7–8 years: $53,165
8–9 years: $57,331
9–10 years: $61,497
10+ years: $65,664

This range shows that with more experience, bus drivers can earn more. It’s a good career choice for those who want steady pay and the chance to grow over time.

What are the highest paying cities for a Bus Driver?

Bus drivers in high-demand cities like San Francisco and San Jose enjoy some of the highest salaries in the country. With San Francisco topping the list at nearly $70,000 annually, job seekers can expect competitive compensation in these urban areas. Other cities like Seattle and Stockton also offer above-average wages, making them attractive options for bus driver jobs.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bus Driver jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $67,869 and Buffalo, NY with the lowest at $55,968.

San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $67,869
Driving a bus in San Francisco means navigating a busy and diverse urban environment. With public transit providers like Muni, job seekers can enjoy the city's vibrant culture. The city's hilly terrain offers unique challenges and a sense of adventure.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $65,178
In San Jose, bus drivers operate through Valley Transportation Authority, ensuring residents move across the city efficiently. This Silicon Valley hub offers a mix of urban and suburban routes. Drivers experience a mix of technology-driven innovation and typical urban transit challenges.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $62,516
Seattle's bus drivers work with King County Metro, serving a city known for its natural beauty and urban charm. The city's diverse routes take drivers through bustling downtown areas and quieter neighborhoods. Seattle's public transportation plays a key role in daily commutes.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $62,067
Stockton offers a more laid-back environment for bus drivers, with San Joaquin RTD managing the transit system. Drivers navigate through a mix of urban and suburban landscapes. The city's slower pace provides a comfortable yet rewarding work experience.
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Greeley, CO
Average Salary: $61,207
Greeley's bus drivers with Transfort navigate through a city known for its agricultural roots and growing urban development. The city offers a blend of rural and suburban transit challenges. Drivers experience a supportive community atmosphere.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $59,829
In Worcester, bus drivers work for the Worcester Regional Transit Authority, providing essential services in a historic city. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban routes, and drivers play a crucial role in daily commutes. Worcester's tight-knit community adds to the rewarding work environment.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $58,787
Portland's bus drivers operate through TriMet, navigating the city's famous transit system. The city's eco-friendly culture and scenic routes make for a unique driving experience. Drivers contribute to the city's strong public transportation network.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $56,481
Nashville's bus drivers work with the Nashville MTA, serving a city known for its vibrant music scene and growing urban landscape. The city offers a mix of lively downtown areas and quieter suburbs. Drivers enjoy a lively and supportive work environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $56,010
San Diego's bus drivers with San Diego MTS navigate through a city famous for its beautiful beaches and tourist attractions. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban routes. Drivers enjoy a mild climate and scenic views.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $55,968
Buffalo's bus drivers with NFTA navigate through a city known for its rich history and diverse neighborhoods. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban routes. Drivers experience a supportive community and a strong sense of belonging.
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What are the best companies a Bus Driver can work for?

Bus drivers have many options for well-paying jobs. Yankee Lanes offers an average salary of $76,750. North Slope Borough School District and Manassas City Public Schools both provide above-average pay, too. This suggests these companies value their drivers and offer competitive compensation. Other notable employers include AmericanStar Trailways and TAYLOR MOTORS INC, which also offer solid pay. Positions with Town of Snowmass Village and Lux Bus America may not top the pay scale, but they still offer respectable salaries. Hallcon Corporation, AMERICAN TRANSPORTATION, and Royal Coach Lines, Inc. provide good earning potential. All these companies value their drivers and offer good financial rewards.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bus Driver jobs, highlighting Yankee Lanes with the highest at $76,750 and Royal Coach Lines, Inc. with the lowest at $62,894.

Yankee Lanes
Average Salary: $76,750
Yankee Lanes offers rewarding Bus Driver jobs with a strong focus on safety and customer service. The company operates in Massachusetts. Drivers enjoy a friendly work environment and the chance to work in a dynamic setting.
North Slope Borough School District
Average Salary: $72,312
The North Slope Borough School District provides Bus Driver positions in Alaska. The company emphasizes teamwork and reliability. Drivers transport students safely, supporting the district's educational mission.
Manassas City Public Schools
Average Salary: $72,207
Manassas City Public Schools hires Bus Drivers who ensure student safety and punctuality. These positions are based in Virginia. The company values dependable drivers to support its educational goals.
AmericanStar Trailways
Average Salary: $69,711
AmericanStar Trailways offers Bus Driver jobs across multiple states. This company seeks responsible drivers to manage long-distance routes. Employees enjoy the freedom of travel and a commitment to safety.
TAYLOR MOTORS INC
Average Salary: $68,998
TAYLOR MOTORS INC offers Bus Driver positions with a focus on community service. Based in Michigan, this company values drivers who prioritize safety and customer comfort. It’s a great choice for those looking for a stable job.
Town of Snowmass Village
Average Salary: $68,071
The Town of Snowmass Village provides Bus Driver jobs in a scenic Colorado location. Drivers transport visitors and residents, ensuring smooth travel around the area. It's a unique job with beautiful surroundings.
Lux Bus America
Average Salary: $67,062
Lux Bus America offers luxury Bus Driver jobs in various cities. The company is known for its high standards and comfort. Drivers enjoy working with modern buses and catering to premium clients.
Hallcon Corporation
Average Salary: $65,874
Hallcon Corporation provides Bus Driver jobs with a focus on logistics and safety. Operating in multiple states, this company offers diverse routes. Drivers work in a supportive environment with a focus on efficiency.
AMERICAN TRANSPORTATION
Average Salary: $64,423
AMERICAN TRANSPORTATION offers Bus Driver jobs across the country. This company values punctuality and reliability. Drivers are part of a team committed to safe and efficient transportation services.
Royal Coach Lines, Inc.
Average Salary: $62,894
Royal Coach Lines, Inc. provides Bus Driver positions with a focus on customer service. Located in Pennsylvania, the company offers stable and rewarding job opportunities. Drivers play a key role in ensuring smooth travel for passengers.

How to earn more as a Bus Driver?

Working as a bus driver can lead to a fulfilling career, and there are ways to increase earnings. Many factors contribute to higher pay. One way is through gaining experience. Experienced drivers can often earn more than those just starting.

Here are some factors to consider for higher earnings:

Gain Experience: As drivers gain more experience, they often qualify for higher pay rates.
Special Certifications: Getting special licenses, such as those for school buses or hazardous materials, can lead to higher pay.
Working Hours: Many bus companies offer higher pay for evening, night, or weekend shifts.
Performance Bonuses: Good performance can earn bonuses, including safe driving records and high customer satisfaction.
Additional Routes: Taking on extra routes or working overtime can lead to higher income.

How much does a Bus Driver make?

What are the highest paying cities for a Bus Driver?

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

How to earn more as a Bus Driver?

Currently 2,420 Bus Driver job openings, nationwide.

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

Win at hiring.