How much does a Owner Operator make?
Owner operators can earn a wide range of salaries based on their specific industry and experience. The average yearly salary for this role is around $299,663. This figure can vary significantly depending on various factors such as location, type of business, and performance. Many owner operators find that they can increase their earnings through hard work and dedication.
Owner operators in the trucking industry often have higher earning potentials. Top earners in this field can make over $520,000 annually. Those in more specialized industries may see varying income levels. Overall, the potential for substantial earnings makes this career path attractive to many professionals. With the right strategies and commitment, owner operators can achieve financial success.
What are the highest paying cities for a Owner Operator?

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El Paso, TX
Average Salary: $412,241
In El Paso, running your own business offers diverse opportunities. Many local companies support small businesses, making it easier to thrive. Being an entrepreneur here means leveraging the city's growing economy and strong community.
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Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $392,479
Topeka provides a supportive environment for entrepreneurs. The local government offers resources and incentives for small businesses. Owning a business here allows you to connect with a loyal customer base and enjoy a lower cost of living.
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Clarksville, TN
Average Salary: $384,800
Clarksville offers a blend of small-town charm and business potential. The area is rich in history and culture, attracting both residents and visitors. Running a business here means tapping into a dedicated community that values local enterprise.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $382,622
In Corpus Christi, owning a business brings a mix of coastal and urban advantages. The city’s strategic location supports a variety of industries. Entrepreneurs here enjoy a vibrant community and easy access to major markets.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $381,500
San Diego is a prime location for business ownership. The city's thriving economy and diverse population provide many opportunities. Entrepreneurs benefit from a supportive business environment and a picturesque setting.
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Durham, NC
Average Salary: $381,261
Durham is a great place for business owners. The city's strong education system and innovative spirit foster growth. Owning a business here means being part of a dynamic community that values creativity and entrepreneurship.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $368,044
Lansing offers a balanced environment for running a business. The city's affordable cost of living and supportive local initiatives make it ideal for entrepreneurs. Owning a business here allows you to be close to key markets and enjoy a strong sense of community.
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Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $364,348
Allentown provides a solid foundation for small business growth. The area is known for its hardworking residents and rich industrial history. Entrepreneurs here benefit from a supportive local economy and diverse customer base.
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Lincoln, NE
Average Salary: $363,594
Lincoln is an excellent place for owning a business. The city offers a lower cost of living and a stable economy. Entrepreneurs can build a loyal customer base and enjoy a friendly business environment.
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Cedar Rapids, IA
Average Salary: $360,763
Cedar Rapids is a great spot for small business owners. The city's supportive community and strong local economy make it ideal for entrepreneurs. Owning a business here means being part of a vibrant, growing community with plenty of opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Owner Operator can work for?

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Veltri, Inc.
Average Salary: $536,705
Veltri, Inc. provides exceptional owner operator jobs with high salaries. This company operates across the U.S., offering a variety of routes and flexible schedules. They focus on delivering quality service and supporting their owner operators with comprehensive training.
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Go Logistics
Average Salary: $406,348
Go Logistics offers competitive pay for owner operators. They are a nationwide company with operations in key locations such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Dallas. Go Logistics values their owner operators and provides excellent benefits and support.
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KLM Trans Inc.
Average Salary: $364,000
KLM Trans Inc. provides rewarding owner operator jobs with salaries up to $364,000. They focus on safety and professional development, with locations in Atlanta, Miami, and New York. Owner operators benefit from a strong company culture and reliable routes.
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Tennessee Steel Haulers
Average Salary: $364,000
Tennessee Steel Haulers pays owner operators up to $364,000. This company is known for its strong support and benefits. They operate primarily in the Southeast U.S., with locations in Nashville and Atlanta. Their dedication to safety and professional training sets them apart.
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Arepet Express
Average Salary: $354,216
Arepet Express offers owner operator jobs with an average salary of $354,216. They have a presence in major cities like Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago. The company is known for its family atmosphere and commitment to helping owner operators succeed.
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Page Transportation & Page E.T.C.
Average Salary: $304,258
Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. provide owner operator jobs with salaries around $304,258. They have locations in Phoenix, Denver, and San Francisco. This company emphasizes teamwork and offers a variety of training programs to enhance skills.
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American Global Express
Average Salary: $286,000
American Global Express offers owner operator jobs with an average salary of $286,000. They operate in key areas such as Miami, New York, and Dallas. The company is known for its strong support network and comprehensive benefits package.
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Empire National
Average Salary: $275,340
Empire National provides owner operator jobs with an average salary of $275,340. They have locations in Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. The company focuses on safety, training, and supporting owner operators to achieve their goals.
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National Retail Systems, Inc
Average Salary: $252,622
National Retail Systems, Inc offers owner operator jobs with an average salary of $252,622. They operate in major cities like Atlanta, Detroit, and Phoenix. This company values their owner operators, providing strong support and a positive work environment.
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West Motor Freight
Average Salary: $238,712
West Motor Freight provides owner operator jobs with an average salary of $238,712. They have locations in Houston, San Francisco, and Dallas. The company is known for its strong commitment to safety and providing excellent routes for their owner operators.
How to earn more as a Owner Operator?
Working as an owner operator can be a rewarding career path, but it also requires smart strategies to maximize earnings. Successful owner operators understand that the key to increasing income lies in effective management and operational efficiency. They focus on areas where they can see the most significant return on their efforts.
Here are five important factors to consider in your quest to earn more as an owner operator:
- Optimize Routes: Always look for ways to reduce travel time. Use route optimization software to find the shortest and most efficient paths. This saves fuel and reduces wear and tear on the vehicle.
- Maintain Equipment: Keep the vehicle in top condition with regular maintenance. Well-maintained equipment runs more efficiently and breaks down less often, leading to lower costs and higher reliability.
- Negotiate Rates: Regularly review and negotiate rates with clients. Understanding market trends can help secure better payment terms. Aim for contracts with steady, long-term clients to ensure a more stable income.
- Expand Services: Consider offering additional services such as freight brokerage, logistics, or even fleet management. Diversifying services can create new revenue streams and attract more business.
- Invest in Technology: Use technology to streamline operations. Tools for fleet management, route planning, and load tracking can save time and reduce errors, leading to increased efficiency and higher profits.



