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How much does a Bus Driver make?

The average salary for a Bus Driver is $44,833 per year in the US.

Bus drivers are an important part of our communities. They help people get to work, school, and other places. Knowing how much bus drivers earn can help those thinking about this job. The average yearly salary for a bus driver is about $44,833. This number changes based on experience, location, and other factors.

Here is a breakdown of the salary data for bus drivers:

  • 25% of drivers earn less than $32,013.
  • 50% of drivers earn less than $36,019.
  • 75% of drivers earn less than $40,025.
  • 90% of drivers earn less than $52,045.
  • 100% of drivers earn less than $68,070.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Bus Driver?

Job seekers looking for bus driving positions can find promising opportunities in several cities. San Francisco and San Jose in California offer the highest salaries, around $65,000. This makes these cities very attractive for those seeking higher pay. Additionally, Stockton, Seattle, and Worcester also provide competitive pay, with average salaries over $55,000.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bus Driver jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $64,960 and Visalia, CA with the lowest at $55,125.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $64,960
    In San Francisco, a city renowned for its hilly streets, driving a bus can be a rewarding experience. Companies like MUNI offer a stable job with benefits. The city's diverse routes provide a unique challenge and opportunity to connect with many residents.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $64,050
    San Jose boasts a growing economy and a bustling urban environment. Working for the Valley Transportation Authority provides a chance to navigate the tech hub. The city's efficient public transit system supports a reliable work schedule.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $60,179
    Stockton offers a friendly community with a laid-back vibe. Working for local transit companies, drivers enjoy a mix of city and suburban routes. The cost of living is reasonable, making it a great place for those starting out.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Stockton, CA


  4. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $60,170
    Seattle's picturesque setting makes for a pleasant bus ride. King County Metro offers a modern fleet and great benefits. The city's commitment to public transit ensures steady employment and growth opportunities.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $58,913
    Worcester provides a historic charm with its vibrant downtown. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority offers a range of routes. The community's dedication to public transportation ensures job security and community engagement.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Worcester, MA


  6. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $58,587
    Santa Rosa's scenic routes and pleasant climate make bus driving enjoyable. The Sonoma County Transit offers a friendly work environment. The city's commitment to sustainability supports a forward-thinking career path.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  7. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $58,169
    Portland's eco-friendly culture fits well with public transportation. TriMet provides a comprehensive transit network. The city's focus on sustainability makes it an excellent place for environmentally conscious professionals.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Portland, OR


  8. Greeley, CO
    Average Salary: $57,949
    Greeley offers a close-knit community with a laid-back atmosphere. The Greeley-Evans Transit provides reliable routes. The area's growing population ensures a steady demand for transit services.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Greeley, CO


  9. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $56,378
    Buffalo's rich history and community spirit create a unique work environment. NFTA Metro offers a variety of routes through the city. The city's commitment to public transit ensures a stable job with good benefits.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Buffalo, NY


  10. Visalia, CA
    Average Salary: $55,125
    Visalia provides a friendly and welcoming environment. The Visalia Transit offers a mix of city and rural routes. The cost of living is affordable, making it ideal for those looking for a balanced lifestyle.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Visalia, CA

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

Job seekers can find attractive salary opportunities in the bus driving industry. LUX BUS AMERICA offers a top average salary of $69,071 per year, making it one of the best employers to consider. Manassas City Public Schools and Town of Snowmass Village follow closely, each with competitive average salaries that reflect their commitment to driver welfare. Additionally, Arlington Central School District, HALLCON, and Royal Coach Lines all present strong average salaries above $63,000 annually. These companies recognize the importance of fair compensation for their drivers. Los Alamitos Unified School District, Zum Services, Inc, Safeway Transportation, and Suffolk Transportation Service also offer above-average salaries, providing multiple pathways for job seekers in this field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bus Driver jobs, highlighting LUX BUS AMERICA with the highest at $69,071 and Suffolk Transportation Service with the lowest at $60,243.
  1. LUX BUS AMERICA
    Average Salary: $69,071
    LUX BUS AMERICA offers exciting Bus Driver opportunities in major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. They focus on luxury travel experiences, ensuring comfort and safety for all passengers.


  2. Manassas City Public Schools
    Average Salary: $68,159
    Manassas City Public Schools hire Bus Drivers to transport students in Manassas, Virginia. They provide a supportive work environment and offer training to ensure safe and timely transportation.


  3. Town of Snowmass Village
    Average Salary: $67,974
    The Town of Snowmass Village needs Bus Drivers to transport visitors and residents around the scenic town in Colorado. They value teamwork and reliability, offering beautiful surroundings as a bonus.


  4. Arlington Central School District
    Average Salary: $67,003
    Arlington Central School District employs Bus Drivers to serve various school routes in New York. They focus on providing a safe commute for students and emphasize community involvement.


  5. HALLCON
    Average Salary: $66,112
    HALLCON provides Bus Driver jobs in various locations, including major cities. They focus on construction and logistics, offering competitive pay and a chance to work in dynamic environments.


  6. Royal Coach Lines
    Average Salary: $63,405
    Royal Coach Lines hires Bus Drivers to transport passengers in California, particularly in the Bay Area. They offer a stable work environment and focus on customer satisfaction.


  7. Los Alamitos Unified School District
    Average Salary: $61,727
    Los Alamitos Unified School District offers Bus Driver jobs in Los Alamitos, California. They aim to provide safe and punctual transportation for students, emphasizing teamwork and reliability.


  8. Zum Services, Inc
    Average Salary: $60,993
    Zum Services, Inc. provides Bus Driver positions across the United States. They focus on customer service and offer various opportunities for career growth and development.


  9. Safeway Transportation
    Average Salary: $60,679
    Safeway Transportation hires Bus Drivers for their logistics and transportation needs. They offer positions in several states, ensuring safe and efficient transport services.


  10. Suffolk Transportation Service
    Average Salary: $60,243
    Suffolk Transportation Service provides Bus Driver jobs in Suffolk, Virginia. They offer a supportive work environment and focus on providing reliable transportation services to the community.

How to earn more as a Bus Driver?

Becoming a top-earning Bus Driver requires more than just a driver's license. It involves a mix of skills, experience, and dedication. People who focus on the right areas can often increase their earnings significantly. Paying attention to these factors can help anyone working as a Bus Driver earn more.

Here are some key factors to consider:

  1. Gain Additional Certifications: Certifications like CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) can make a driver more valuable. Special training in first aid and defensive driving can also enhance job performance.
  2. Seek Extra Responsibilities: Offering to take on additional routes or shifts can lead to higher pay. Many companies reward experienced drivers with more hours or better shifts.
  3. Work for Larger Companies: Larger bus companies often pay higher wages and offer better benefits. These companies can provide a more stable income and opportunities for advancement.
  4. Pursue Leadership Roles: Taking on roles like a Lead Driver or Fleet Manager can lead to higher earnings. These positions often come with higher pay and added responsibilities.
  5. Stay Healthy and Reliable: Being a dependable driver means showing up on time and in good condition. Less absenteeism and a strong work ethic can lead to bonuses and raises.

Currently 2,501 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
2,501 Job Openings