Position
Salary

How much does a Owner Operator make?

The average salary for a Owner Operator is $308,257 per year in the US.

Owner operators often enjoy a rewarding career with a competitive salary. On average, owner operators make about $308,257 per year. This figure can vary based on several factors, including the type of business, location, and industry. For instance, those in the trucking industry may have different earnings compared to those in the construction sector.

The salary distribution shows that many owner operators earn between $223,127 and $371,564 annually. This range highlights the potential for growth and success in this field. Some owner operators may earn even more, especially if they manage multiple businesses or have a highly profitable venture. It's important to note that while the average salary is impressive, individual earnings can vary widely.

View Owner Operator jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Owner Operator?

Job seekers looking for owner operator roles can find some of the highest salaries in El Paso, TX, where the average salary reaches $415,687. San Diego, CA, and Durham, NC, follow closely with average salaries of $400,818 and $390,788, respectively. These cities offer competitive pay and a range of opportunities for those in the owner operator field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Owner Operator jobs, highlighting El Paso, TX with the highest at $415,687 and Green Bay, WI with the lowest at $359,434.
  1. El Paso, TX
    Average Salary: $415,687
    In El Paso, operating as an owner-operator offers a dynamic work environment with diverse opportunities. The city's strategic location near the Mexican border boosts logistics and transportation. Companies like U-Haul and Penske Truck Rental provide solid platforms for owner-operators.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in El Paso, TX


  2. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $400,818
    San Diego presents a vibrant market for owner-operators, with a strong focus on logistics and maritime services. The city's port and beautiful weather make it ideal for transport and delivery. Companies like FedEx and UPS offer excellent opportunities for those in the field.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Durham, NC
    Average Salary: $390,788
    Durham, known for its Research Triangle, offers a unique blend of tech and logistics for owner-operators. The city's growing tech sector creates demand for delivery services. Companies like DHL and Amazon provide promising avenues for those looking to succeed.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Durham, NC


  4. Topeka, KS
    Average Salary: $385,614
    In Topeka, owner-operators benefit from a stable market with a mix of agriculture and logistics. The city's central location makes it a hub for transport. Companies like Schneider and J.B. Hunt offer reliable opportunities for growth.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Topeka, KS


  5. Clarksville, TN
    Average Salary: $384,800
    Clarksville provides a balanced environment for owner-operators, with a mix of military and logistics sectors. The city's proximity to Nashville adds to its appeal. Companies like Covenant and ABF Freight offer solid career paths.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Clarksville, TN


  6. Allentown, PA
    Average Salary: $382,838
    Allentown, part of the Lehigh Valley, offers a robust market for owner-operators. The city's industrial base and logistics sector create many opportunities. Companies like C.R. England and Estes Express Lines provide strong support.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Allentown, PA


  7. Lansing, MI
    Average Salary: $375,626
    Lansing presents a stable market for owner-operators, with a focus on logistics and manufacturing. The city's central location in the Midwest is advantageous. Companies like Knight Transportation and Old Dominion Freight Line offer good prospects.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Lansing, MI


  8. Columbus, GA
    Average Salary: $362,583
    Columbus offers a thriving market for owner-operators, with a strong presence in logistics and manufacturing. The city's proximity to major highways boosts transport opportunities. Companies like Swift Transportation and Werner Enterprises provide solid career paths.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Columbus, GA


  9. Athens, GA
    Average Salary: $359,982
    Athens provides a vibrant market for owner-operators, with a mix of education and logistics sectors. The city's university presence adds to its dynamic environment. Companies like XPO Logistics and YRC Worldwide offer promising opportunities.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Athens, GA


  10. Green Bay, WI
    Average Salary: $359,434
    Green Bay offers a stable market for owner-operators, with a strong focus on logistics and manufacturing. The city's central location in the Midwest is ideal for transport. Companies like Landstar System and Roehl Transport offer reliable career paths.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Green Bay, WI

What are the best companies a Owner Operator can work for?

Veltri, Inc. offers one of the highest salaries for owner-operator jobs, averaging around $535,885 annually. Leader Freight Systems also provides a competitive salary, with an average of $468,000 per year. Go Logistics follows closely, with an average salary of $406,348 for owner-operators. KLM Trans Inc. and Tennessee Steel Haulers both offer average salaries of $364,000, making them attractive options for those in the field. Arepet Express provides an average salary of $319,800, while Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. offers $300,000 annually. American Global Express, West Motor Freight, and Clean Harbors round out the list with average salaries of $286,000, $242,643, and $232,813, respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Owner Operator jobs, highlighting Veltri, Inc. with the highest at $535,885 and Clean Harbors with the lowest at $232,813.
  1. Veltri, Inc.
    Average Salary: $535,885
    Veltri, Inc. offers high-paying Owner Operator jobs. They operate in various locations across the country. Drivers enjoy flexible schedules and competitive pay.


  2. Leader Freight Systems
    Average Salary: $468,000
    Leader Freight Systems is known for its excellent pay for Owner Operators. They have locations in many states. Drivers benefit from good benefits and support.


  3. Go Logistics
    Average Salary: $406,348
    Go Logistics provides rewarding Owner Operator jobs. They operate in several regions. Drivers enjoy good pay and a supportive work environment.


  4. KLM Trans Inc.
    Average Salary: $364,000
    KLM Trans Inc. offers competitive salaries for Owner Operators. They have locations in multiple states. Drivers get good pay and flexible routes.


  5. Tennessee Steel Haulers
    Average Salary: $364,000
    Tennessee Steel Haulers provides good pay for Owner Operators. They operate in the southeastern U.S. Drivers enjoy stable routes and good benefits.


  6. Arepet Express
    Average Salary: $319,800
    Arepet Express offers attractive salaries for Owner Operators. They have locations in several states. Drivers enjoy good pay and flexible schedules.


  7. Page Transportation & Page E.T.C.
    Average Salary: $300,000
    Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. provide good pay for Owner Operators. They operate in many regions. Drivers benefit from good support and benefits.


  8. American Global Express
    Average Salary: $286,000
    American Global Express offers competitive salaries for Owner Operators. They operate in several states. Drivers enjoy good pay and flexible routes.


  9. West Motor Freight
    Average Salary: $242,643
    West Motor Freight provides good pay for Owner Operators. They operate in multiple states. Drivers enjoy good benefits and support.


  10. Clean Harbors
    Average Salary: $232,813
    Clean Harbors offers competitive salaries for Owner Operators. They operate in several regions. Drivers enjoy good pay and a supportive work environment.

How to earn more as a Owner Operator?

Becoming a successful Owner Operator can lead to higher earnings. This role requires a mix of skills and strategies. Focus on these key areas to boost your income.

First, manage your costs carefully. Keep track of all expenses. Look for ways to save money without cutting corners. Efficient cost management can lead to higher profits. Second, choose the right routes. Research and select routes with higher demand and better pay. Avoid routes that are oversaturated or have low rates. Third, maintain your vehicle well. Regular maintenance keeps your truck running smoothly. Fewer breakdowns mean more time on the road and more money earned. Fourth, build strong relationships with shippers. Good relationships can lead to more job offers and better rates. Always deliver on time and keep communication open. Fifth, consider additional services. Offer services like expedited delivery or specialized cargo. These can bring in extra income and set you apart from competitors.

By focusing on these factors, an Owner Operator can increase their earnings and build a successful career.

  • Manage costs carefully
  • Choose the right routes
  • Maintain your vehicle well
  • Build strong relationships with shippers
  • Consider additional services

Currently 1,555 Owner Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Owner Operator in the US?

Learn what a Owner Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Owner Operator today.
Position
Overview
Owner Operator
1,555 Job Openings