How much does a CDL Driver make?
The role of a CDL driver is both vital and rewarding. These professionals transport goods across various distances, ensuring that businesses run smoothly. They earn a decent income, with salaries reflecting their essential work. The average yearly salary for a CDL driver is around $78,600. This means they can support their families well and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
CDL drivers can earn more with experience and specialization. Many drivers start with salaries around $30,000 and can reach up to $247,000 with years of experience. Some key factors that influence salary include the type of cargo, location, and employer. Most drivers find jobs with trucking companies, logistics firms, and manufacturing companies. Working long hours and driving in tough conditions can lead to higher pay and bonuses. This career offers good pay and the chance to travel across the country.
What are the highest paying cities for a CDL Driver?
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Brownsville, TX
Average Salary: $114,795
In Brownsville, driving a commercial vehicle offers access to various industries. Companies like Rio Grand Transport and M.A.R.C.H. are prominent employers. Opportunities exist for both local and regional hauls.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $108,722
Miami provides a dynamic environment for CDL drivers. With companies like Ryder and Yellow Logistics, professionals can find diverse routes. The bustling city offers many chances for regular runs.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $106,498
In Tampa, drivers enjoy a mix of urban and rural routes. Companies such as Landstar System and J.B. Hunt Transport offer varied job opportunities. The port and logistics hubs make Tampa a key area for deliveries.
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Fort Myers, FL
Average Salary: $106,003
Fort Myers presents a laid-back setting with good job prospects. Firms like Roehl Transport and CRST Expedited provide steady work. Drivers can enjoy the coastal lifestyle along with their routes.
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Lakeland, FL
Average Salary: $103,924
Lakeland offers a mix of local and regional driving. Companies such as J.B. Hunt and Swift Transportation are big employers. The area's central location makes it ideal for various delivery routes.
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Lubbock, TX
Average Salary: $100,766
Lubbock provides a stable job market for commercial drivers. Firms like Landstar System and Werner Enterprises are well-known employers. The city's central position in Texas offers many regional haul opportunities.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $100,625
San Francisco's hilly terrain presents unique challenges and rewards. Companies such as Schneider and USF Holland offer diverse routes. Drivers can enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere while on the job.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $98,331
Orlando offers a bustling job market with many entertainment-related deliveries. Companies like U.S. Xpress and Covenant Transport are major employers. The city's theme parks create a lively driving environment.
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Virginia Beach, VA
Average Salary: $97,726
In Virginia Beach, drivers can enjoy a mix of coastal and inland routes. Firms like Landstar System and ABF Freight offer steady work. The scenic coastal drives add to the job's appeal.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $97,431
Tallahassee provides a mix of governmental and commercial driving opportunities. Companies such as Landstar System and Kirby Inland offer varied routes. The city's central location makes it a hub for deliveries.
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What are the best companies a CDL Driver can work for?
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Zero Max Inc
Average Salary: $586,000
Zero Max Inc offers competitive salaries for CDL Drivers. This company is based in Houston, TX, and provides logistics and transportation services. Drivers enjoy a supportive work environment and opportunities for career growth.
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Evans Delivery Company
Average Salary: $416,000
Evans Delivery Company is well-known for its high pay for CDL Drivers. The company operates in several states across the U.S., with key locations in California and Florida. Drivers benefit from excellent benefits and professional training.
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BEEMAC TRUCKING
Average Salary: $338,000
BEEMAC TRUCKING provides a good salary for CDL Drivers. This company focuses on freight services and operates mainly in the northeastern U.S. Drivers here receive solid benefits and a family-oriented work atmosphere.
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Page Transportation & Page E.T.C.
Average Salary: $304,412
Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. offers a solid salary for CDL Drivers. The company has locations in the Midwest and East Coast, specializing in logistics services. Drivers enjoy a supportive team and excellent company culture.
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WTI TRANSPORT
Average Salary: $260,000
WTI TRANSPORT provides a decent salary for CDL Drivers. The company operates across the U.S., with hubs in Texas and Illinois. Drivers benefit from a safe working environment and good benefits.
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Beemac Trucking, LLC
Average Salary: $259,789
Beemac Trucking, LLC offers a competitive salary for CDL Drivers. This company focuses on freight transportation with operations in multiple states. Drivers here enjoy strong support and a positive work environment.
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JAMM Transportation, LLC
Average Salary: $259,146
JAMM Transportation, LLC provides a fair salary for CDL Drivers. The company operates in the Southeast U.S. Drivers benefit from a family-like atmosphere and good company benefits.
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West Motor Freight
Average Salary: $234,000
West Motor Freight offers a good salary for CDL Drivers. The company has locations in the West Coast. Drivers enjoy a supportive work environment and opportunities for advancement.
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Empower formerly Niagara Cerebral Palsy
Average Salary: $224,628
Empower formerly Niagara Cerebral Palsy offers a solid salary for CDL Drivers. This company provides specialized services and operates in several states. Drivers here benefit from a supportive team and excellent benefits.
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Tennessee Steel Haulers
Average Salary: $213,200
Tennessee Steel Haulers provides a fair salary for CDL Drivers. The company operates in the southeastern U.S. Drivers enjoy a family-like work environment and good company benefits.
How to earn more as a CDL Driver?
A career as a CDL driver offers many opportunities to increase earnings. By focusing on key areas, drivers can enhance their income potential. Working in a high-demand field, such as transporting hazardous materials or oversized loads, can lead to higher pay rates. Additionally, gaining endorsements for specialized cargo can also increase earning potential.
Employers often value experience and reliability. Building a solid track record with a company can lead to raises and bonuses. Investing in ongoing training and professional development can open doors to higher-paying positions. Networking within the industry can uncover lucrative job opportunities that may not be widely advertised.
Here are some factors to consider for boosting earnings:
- Obtain endorsements for specialized cargo.
- Work in high-demand fields like hazardous materials transport.
- Build experience and reliability with one employer.
- Invest in ongoing training and professional development.
- Network within the industry to find higher-paying jobs.
