Forklift Driver Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Forklift Driver make?

The average salary for a Forklift Driver is $38,075 per year in the US.

A Forklift Driver plays a key role in many industries, from manufacturing to logistics. This job involves operating a forklift to move materials around a warehouse. The salary for a Forklift Driver can vary based on experience and location. On average, a Forklift Driver earns around $38,075 per year. This salary can range from about $29,000 for those just starting out to over $50,000 for those with more experience.

Several factors can influence a Forklift Driver's salary. These include the industry they work in, the size of the company, and the region. For example, in some areas, the cost of living is higher, which can lead to higher salaries. Also, those with additional certifications or specialized skills may earn more. Forklift Drivers who work in busy warehouses or on night shifts might also see higher pay. This job offers a stable income and opportunities for growth.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Forklift Driver?

Job seekers looking for high-paying forklift driver positions should consider cities like Sacramento, CA, and Los Angeles, CA. These cities offer some of the best salaries for forklift drivers. Sacramento tops the list with an average annual salary of $45,841. Other cities with competitive salaries include Fargo, ND, and Minneapolis, MN, where drivers can expect to earn around $45,000 annually. These locations provide excellent opportunities for those seeking to advance their careers in logistics and transportation.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forklift Driver jobs, highlighting Sacramento, CA with the highest at $45,841 and Salt Lake City, UT with the lowest at $42,112.
  1. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $45,841
    In Sacramento, you'll find many warehouses and distribution centers. Companies like Walmart and Target offer many opportunities. The city's growing economy makes it a great place to work.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Sacramento, CA


  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $45,584
    Los Angeles has a bustling port and many businesses. Working here means you'll be busy with shipping and receiving goods. Companies like Amazon and FedEx are always looking for skilled drivers.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  3. Fargo, ND
    Average Salary: $45,221
    Fargo offers a quieter work environment with many agricultural businesses. Companies like Cargill provide stable jobs. The community is friendly, making it a great place to work and live.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Fargo, ND


  4. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $44,336
    Minneapolis has a mix of large companies and smaller businesses. Companies like 3M and Target offer many positions. The city's vibrant culture makes it a nice place to work and explore.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  5. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $43,836
    Portland is known for its eco-friendly businesses. Many companies focus on sustainable practices. Working here means you'll be part of a growing green industry. Companies like REI offer many opportunities.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Portland, OR


  6. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $43,812
    Seattle has a thriving tech and shipping industry. Companies like Amazon and UPS offer many jobs. The city's dynamic environment makes it exciting to work in.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $42,994
    Denver offers a mix of outdoor activities and urban jobs. Companies like King Soopers and XPO Logistics provide many positions. The city's high altitude and beautiful scenery make it a great place to live and work.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Denver, CO


  8. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $42,814
    Salinas is known for its agricultural businesses. Companies like Tanimura & Antle offer many jobs. The city's close-knit community makes it a nice place to work and settle down.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Salinas, CA


  9. Cedar Rapids, IA
    Average Salary: $42,419
    Cedar Rapids has many manufacturing companies. Companies like Rockwell Collins and Vermeer offer many positions. The city's friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to work.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  10. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $42,112
    Salt Lake City has a mix of outdoor activities and urban jobs. Companies like Zions Bank and UPS offer many positions. The city's beautiful mountains and growing economy make it a nice place to work and explore.
    Find Forklift Driver jobs in Salt Lake City, UT

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

Companies like Lululemon, G3 Enterprises, and Abbott offer top pay for forklift drivers. These firms provide competitive salaries, making them attractive options for job seekers. With annual earnings around $52,000, these companies value skilled forklift operators.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forklift Driver jobs, highlighting lululemon with the highest at $52,544 and West Liberty Foods with the lowest at $43,636.
  1. lululemon
    Average Salary: $52,544
    Lululemon offers competitive salaries for Forklift Drivers. They operate in many locations across the US and Canada. Drivers work in their warehouses, ensuring smooth operations.


  2. G3 ENTERPRISES
    Average Salary: $52,433
    G3 ENTERPRISES provides a good salary for Forklift Drivers. They have facilities in various locations. Drivers here handle materials and goods efficiently.


  3. Abbott
    Average Salary: $48,567
    Abbott pays a solid salary to its Forklift Drivers. They have sites in many areas. Drivers work in their warehouses, ensuring products are moved safely.


  4. IKEA
    Average Salary: $48,392
    IKEA offers a good salary for Forklift Drivers. They have stores in many locations. Drivers here handle large items, ensuring they reach customers on time.


  5. Packaging Corporation of America
    Average Salary: $47,567
    Packaging Corporation of America provides a fair salary for Forklift Drivers. They operate in many places. Drivers here manage packaging materials, ensuring smooth production.


  6. Cameron Ashley Building Products
    Average Salary: $45,800
    Cameron Ashley Building Products offers a decent salary for Forklift Drivers. They have locations in various areas. Drivers here handle building materials, ensuring they reach job sites.


  7. Keurig Dr Pepper
    Average Salary: $44,322
    Keurig Dr Pepper provides a good salary for Forklift Drivers. They have facilities in many locations. Drivers here manage beverages, ensuring they are packed and shipped correctly.


  8. Clean Harbors
    Average Salary: $44,000
    Clean Harbors offers a fair salary for Forklift Drivers. They have sites in many areas. Drivers here handle waste materials, ensuring they are processed safely.


  9. Conagra Brands
    Average Salary: $43,964
    Conagra Brands provides a decent salary for Forklift Drivers. They have facilities in many locations. Drivers here manage food products, ensuring they are packed and shipped.


  10. West Liberty Foods
    Average Salary: $43,636
    West Liberty Foods offers a fair salary for Forklift Drivers. They have locations in various areas. Drivers here handle food products, ensuring they are processed and shipped.

How to earn more as a Forklift Driver?

Becoming a forklift driver can lead to a rewarding career with good earning potential. To maximize your earnings, consider these key factors:

  • Experience: Gaining experience increases your value. Employers often pay more for drivers with a proven track record.
  • Certifications: Obtaining forklift certifications can boost your pay. Certifications show you have the skills needed to operate safely and efficiently.
  • Location: Wages can vary by region. Working in areas with higher living costs often means higher pay.
  • Specialization: Specializing in certain types of forklifts or industries can increase your earning potential. For example, drivers who work in hazardous environments may earn more.
  • Shift Work: Working overtime or night shifts can lead to higher earnings. Many employers offer premium pay for these hours.

Focusing on these areas can help forklift drivers earn more. Building a strong work history, gaining certifications, and being open to different work opportunities can lead to higher pay and career advancement.

Currently 853 Forklift Driver job openings, nationwide.

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

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