Position
Salary

How much does a Owner Operator make?

The average salary for a Owner Operator is $295,107 per year in the US.

Owner operators can expect to earn a solid income. They work for themselves, running their own businesses. The average yearly salary for owner operators stands at about $295,107. This figure varies based on the industry and experience. Some earn less, while others make much more.

Many owner operators make between $91,000 and $520,000 a year. Those in the highest paying brackets often run larger or more specialized businesses. They may also have more experience. Being an owner operator means they handle all aspects of the business. This includes managing finances, marketing, and customer service. It also means they need to handle the vehicle and equipment costs.

View Owner Operator jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Owner Operator?

Job seekers can find promising opportunities in several cities where owner operator jobs offer high salaries. El Paso, TX, stands out with an average salary of $412,639. Other top cities include Topeka, KS, with an average salary of $392,479, and Clarksville, TN, where the average salary reaches $384,800. These cities provide competitive compensation packages for owner operators. Each of these cities presents a blend of market dynamics and business opportunities that contribute to higher earnings for owner operators. For instance, Fresno, CA, and Durham, NC, have average salaries of $384,062 and $377,120, respectively. Cities such as Lansing, MI, and Corpus Christi, TX, also feature strong average salaries, making them attractive locations for job seekers in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Owner Operator jobs, highlighting El Paso, TX with the highest at $412,639 and Allentown, PA with the lowest at $361,279.
  1. El Paso, TX
    Average Salary: $412,639
    In El Paso, running a business as an operator offers good potential. The area benefits from nearby ports and major highways, aiding logistics. Companies like Covenant Freight Lines provide opportunities in transportation.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in El Paso, TX


  2. Topeka, KS
    Average Salary: $392,479
    Topeka has a thriving local economy, offering good opportunities for operators. With a strategic location and supportive local businesses, it's a favorable place to work independently. Companies such as Haulix provide good options for freight services.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Topeka, KS


  3. Clarksville, TN
    Average Salary: $384,800
    Clarksville provides a balanced environment for operators. The area's growing industries and supportive business climate make it a great place to start. Companies like Sam's Club offer ample opportunities in retail logistics.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Clarksville, TN


  4. Fresno, CA
    Average Salary: $384,062
    Fresno's diverse economy offers many chances for operators. Agriculture and logistics are key industries. Companies like U.S. Xpress connect operators with extensive networks.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Fresno, CA


  5. Durham, NC
    Average Salary: $377,120
    Durham is known for its strong economy and vibrant business environment. The Research Triangle Park area supports many tech and healthcare ventures. Operators can find good opportunities with companies like Celadon Trucking.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Durham, NC


  6. Lansing, MI
    Average Salary: $372,242
    Lansing has a stable economy with plenty of opportunities for operators. The automotive industry plays a big role, providing diverse logistic needs. Companies like Ryder System offer good prospects.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Lansing, MI


  7. Corpus Christi, TX
    Average Salary: $371,792
    Corpus Christi benefits from its strategic location near the Gulf of Mexico. This makes it ideal for maritime and logistics operations. Operators can find good opportunities with companies like Swift Transportation.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Corpus Christi, TX


  8. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $370,169
    San Diego offers a dynamic market for operators. The area's strong tech and defense sectors provide many opportunities. Companies like Schneider have extensive networks for freight services.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in San Diego, CA


  9. Lincoln, NE
    Average Salary: $363,594
    Lincoln has a steady economy with good opportunities for operators. Agriculture and manufacturing are key sectors. Companies like JB Hunt Transport offer strong networks for logistics.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Lincoln, NE


  10. Allentown, PA
    Average Salary: $361,279
    Allentown offers a solid economic base with ample opportunities for operators. The area’s logistics sector is growing, with companies like Estes Express Lines providing good options.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Allentown, PA

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

Veltri, Inc. and Go Logistics lead the way for top-paying owner operator jobs. With Veltri, Inc. offering the highest average salary, job seekers find excellent financial rewards. Go Logistics also provides a competitive salary, making it another strong choice for those seeking lucrative opportunities. KLM Trans Inc. and Tennessee Steel Haulers follow closely, each providing robust average salaries that appeal to many job seekers. These companies value their owner operators, which translates to better financial benefits. Arepet Express and Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. offer solid salary packages that reflect their commitment to employee satisfaction.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Owner Operator jobs, highlighting Veltri, Inc. with the highest at $536,705 and West Motor Freight with the lowest at $238,712.
  1. Veltri, Inc.
    Average Salary: $536,705
    Veltri, Inc. offers top-tier Owner Operator jobs with a strong reputation for excellence. This company operates across various states, ensuring drivers have ample opportunities nationwide. With a commitment to safety and professionalism, Veltri provides a rewarding career path for Owner Operators.


  2. Go Logistics
    Average Salary: $406,348
    Go Logistics stands out as a leading company for Owner Operators. They focus on delivering high-quality services and have a robust network across multiple regions. Drivers at Go Logistics benefit from competitive salaries and the chance to work in diverse locations.


  3. KLM Trans Inc.
    Average Salary: $364,000
    KLM Trans Inc. provides excellent opportunities for Owner Operators, with a strong presence in several states. The company values safety and efficiency, ensuring a stable work environment. Drivers enjoy a good balance of work and personal life.


  4. Tennessee Steel Haulers
    Average Salary: $364,000
    Tennessee Steel Haulers is a prominent employer for Owner Operators. They operate in various locations, offering consistent job opportunities. The company emphasizes teamwork and reliability, making it a great choice for aspiring Owner Operators.


  5. Arepet Express
    Average Salary: $361,083
    Arepet Express offers attractive Owner Operator jobs with a strong market presence. They operate in diverse areas, ensuring drivers have plenty of job options. The company values safety and offers good benefits for their Owner Operators.


  6. Page Transportation & Page E.T.C.
    Average Salary: $307,102
    Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. provide promising Owner Operator positions with a focus on professionalism. They serve multiple states, offering a broad range of job opportunities. Drivers here benefit from a supportive work culture and competitive pay.


  7. Empire National
    Average Salary: $293,004
    Empire National is known for its rewarding Owner Operator jobs. They have a wide operational reach, providing various job options for drivers. The company prioritizes safety and offers a stable work environment for Owner Operators.


  8. American Global Express
    Average Salary: $286,000
    American Global Express offers lucrative Owner Operator jobs with extensive operational coverage. The company focuses on efficiency and safety, providing a rewarding career for drivers. They operate in multiple locations, ensuring plenty of job opportunities.


  9. National Retail Systems, Inc
    Average Salary: $244,878
    National Retail Systems, Inc provides Owner Operator jobs with a focus on reliability and efficiency. They operate in various locations, offering stable job opportunities. The company values its Owner Operators and offers good benefits.


  10. West Motor Freight
    Average Salary: $238,712
    West Motor Freight offers Owner Operator jobs with a strong market presence. They serve multiple states, providing a wide range of job opportunities. The company emphasizes safety and offers a supportive work environment.

How to earn more as a Owner Operator?

For those considering a career as an Owner Operator, it's important to understand how to maximize earnings. Being an Owner Operator means you own and operate your own vehicle, often in the trucking industry. This can lead to higher earnings, but also requires smart business practices.

Here are five key factors to help increase your income as an Owner Operator:

  1. Choose the Right Loads: Select loads that offer the best pay. Avoid accepting low-paying jobs just to keep busy. Always aim for loads that maximize your time and resources.
  2. Maintain Your Truck: A well-maintained truck runs more efficiently and breaks down less often. Regular maintenance reduces repair costs and ensures you stay on the road more.
  3. Negotiate Rates: Don't hesitate to negotiate better rates with brokers and shippers. Sometimes, a little negotiation can lead to higher pay for your services.
  4. Minimize Expenses: Keep track of all costs related to your business. This includes fuel, maintenance, insurance, and taxes. Reducing unnecessary expenses can significantly boost your profits.
  5. Expand Your Network: Building relationships with brokers, shippers, and other Owner Operators can lead to more job opportunities and better rates.

By focusing on these factors, an Owner Operator can significantly increase their earnings and achieve long-term success in their career.

Currently 515 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
515 Job Openings