Position
Salary

How much does a Charter Bus Driver make?

The average salary for a Charter Bus Driver is $59,372 per year in the US.

A Charter Bus Driver can expect a competitive salary. On average, these professionals earn about $59,372 a year. The chart below shows a range of salaries, from entry-level to experienced drivers. This data helps job seekers understand the potential earnings in this career.


Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:

  • 9.09% of Charter Bus Drivers make $38,120 or less.
  • 10.47% make between $38,120 and $42,609.
  • 13.23% make between $42,609 and $47,098.
  • 11.26% make between $47,098 and $51,587.
  • 9.28% make between $51,587 and $56,076.
  • 22.12% make between $56,076 and $60,565.
  • 2.77% make between $60,565 and $65,055.
  • 1.98% make between $65,055 and $69,544.
  • 2.17% make between $69,544 and $74,033.
  • 0.20% make between $74,033 and $78,522.
  • 12.44% make $78,522 or more.
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What are the highest paying cities for a Charter Bus Driver?

San Jose, CA, stands out as the top city for Charter Bus Drivers looking to earn a high salary. The average salary there hits $65,100. This position offers better pay than other cities like Minneapolis, MN, and San Antonio, TX. Job seekers aiming for a lucrative career in this field may find San Jose particularly appealing. Beyond San Jose, Minneapolis and San Antonio also offer competitive wages for Charter Bus Drivers. Minneapolis pays around $48,093, while San Antonio pays about $45,586. These cities provide attractive job markets with decent pay packages. Buffalo, NY, and Orlando, FL, follow with averages of $45,091 and $44,882, respectively.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Charter Bus Driver jobs, highlighting San Jose, CA with the highest at $65,100 and Orlando, FL with the lowest at $44,882.
  1. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $65,100
    San Jose offers a vibrant environment for bus drivers. The city's tech industry creates many opportunities for transporting employees to various locations. Major companies like Google and Apple increase demand for reliable bus services.
    Find Charter Bus Driver jobs in San Jose, CA


  2. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $48,093
    In Minneapolis, bus drivers enjoy a mix of urban and suburban routes. The city's public events and festivals often need transportation. Companies like Jefferson Lines provide a steady stream of work for drivers.
    Find Charter Bus Driver jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  3. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $45,586
    San Antonio's warm climate makes it a pleasant place for bus drivers. The city has a growing tourism industry, leading to more charter services. Popular destinations like the River Walk see plenty of foot traffic, boosting job opportunities.
    Find Charter Bus Driver jobs in San Antonio, TX


  4. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $45,091
    Buffalo offers a unique blend of urban and rural routes for drivers. The city’s sports events and cultural festivals create a steady demand for bus services. Companies like Coach USA offer many driving positions.
    Find Charter Bus Driver jobs in Buffalo, NY


  5. Orlando, FL
    Average Salary: $44,882
    Orlando thrives on tourism, providing ample work for bus drivers. The city’s theme parks and attractions require efficient transportation. Major companies like Mears Transportation offer consistent job opportunities.
    Find Charter Bus Driver jobs in Orlando, FL

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

Looking for top-paying jobs in the charter bus driving industry? DATTCO offers the highest average salary at nearly $83,300. Coach USA follows closely, with an average salary slightly under $83,000. These positions can provide a stable and rewarding career for those in the field. LUX BUS AMERICA and Academy Bus also offer competitive salaries, with averages above $64,000. NRT Bus, Inc. and First Student provide salaries close to $51,000 and $50,000, respectively. GO Riteway Transportation Group, though lower, still offers an average of nearly $43,000. Each company presents an opportunity for professional growth and financial stability.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Charter Bus Driver jobs, highlighting DATTCO with the highest at $83,297 and GO Riteway Transportation Group with the lowest at $42,714.
  1. DATTCO
    Average Salary: $83,297
    DATTCO offers excellent opportunities for Charter Bus Drivers. They provide charter bus services for various events and tours across the country, including major cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. Drivers at DATTCO benefit from comprehensive training and support to ensure a safe and rewarding job experience.


  2. Coach USA
    Average Salary: $83,032
    Coach USA is one of the largest providers of bus transportation services in the U.S. They operate in several states, including California, Texas, and Florida. Charter Bus Drivers for Coach USA can look forward to a competitive salary and the chance to work in vibrant, bustling cities. The company values safety and reliability, ensuring a rewarding career for its employees.


  3. LUX BUS AMERICA
    Average Salary: $65,188
    LUX BUS AMERICA offers exciting opportunities for Charter Bus Drivers. Their fleet is known for luxury and comfort, making them a top choice for charter services. They operate in cities like New York, Las Vegas, and Miami. Drivers enjoy a positive work environment and the chance to provide top-notch service to passengers.


  4. Academy Bus
    Average Salary: $64,830
    Academy Bus provides comprehensive charter bus services across the country. They serve numerous states, including Illinois, Missouri, and New York. Charter Bus Drivers at Academy Bus benefit from a supportive team and the opportunity to drive across diverse landscapes and cities. The company emphasizes safety and customer satisfaction.


  5. NRT Bus, Inc.
    Average Salary: $51,067
    NRT Bus, Inc. offers Charter Bus Driver positions with a competitive salary. They operate in cities like Chicago and Denver. Drivers at NRT Bus, Inc. are part of a team dedicated to providing excellent service to clients. The company values its employees and offers a chance to work in vibrant urban environments.


  6. First Student
    Average Salary: $50,019
    First Student is one of the largest providers of school transportation services in the U.S. They also offer charter bus services in several states, including Florida, Pennsylvania, and Texas. Drivers can expect a stable job with good benefits. The company focuses on safety and reliability, providing a rewarding career for its employees.


  7. GO Riteway Transportation Group
    Average Salary: $42,714
    GO Riteway Transportation Group offers Charter Bus Driver positions with a focus on safety and customer service. They operate in cities like Houston and Dallas. Drivers at GO Riteway Transportation Group benefit from a supportive team and the chance to provide exceptional service to passengers. The company values its employees and offers a stable work environment.

How to earn more as a Charter Bus Driver?

Becoming a high-earning charter bus driver involves more than just holding a commercial driver's license. It requires dedication, skill, and a strategic approach to professional development. Aspiring drivers can enhance their earnings by focusing on various aspects of their career, such as gaining experience, expanding their network, and seeking specialized opportunities. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in increasing potential income and job satisfaction.

Below are key strategies to help boost earnings as a charter bus driver:

  1. Gain Experience: More experience often means higher pay. Start with local routes and gradually take on more complex, longer trips. Experience builds credibility and can lead to better-paying jobs.
  2. Obtain Advanced Certifications: Certifications such as Passenger Endorsement and Hazardous Materials can open up higher-paying opportunities. These credentials demonstrate a higher level of competence and responsibility.
  3. Network with Other Drivers: Connect with fellow drivers to learn about job openings and opportunities for collaboration. Networking can lead to referrals and partnerships that increase income.
  4. Provide Specialty Services: Offering specialized services, like luxury buses for weddings or VIP transportation, can command higher rates. Tailoring services to meet specific client needs sets drivers apart.
  5. Maintain a Clean Driving Record: A good driving record is essential for securing higher-paying jobs. Avoid accidents and traffic violations to maintain a clean record.

Currently 32 Charter Bus Driver job openings, nationwide.

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

Learn what a Charter Bus Driver does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Charter Bus Driver today.
Position
Overview
Charter Bus Driver
32 Job Openings