How much does a Owner Operator make?
Owner operators often enjoy the flexibility of running their own business. They can set their own hours and decide which projects to take on. The average yearly salary for an owner operator is around $305,461. This can vary based on experience, location, and the type of work they do.
The salary range can be quite broad. At the lower end, some owner operators earn around $109,375 a year. At the higher end, the top earners can make over $520,000 annually. Most owner operators fall somewhere in the middle, with salaries ranging from $146,705 to $482,670. This wide range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and success in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Owner Operator?

-
El Paso, TX
Average Salary: $412,241
In El Paso, driving for a company like U.S. Xpress offers a mix of local and long-haul routes. The city's strategic location makes it a hub for cross-border trade, providing steady work. The warm climate is ideal for year-round driving.
Find Owner Operator jobs in El Paso, TX
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $394,154
San Diego's scenic routes make for a pleasant driving experience. With companies like Schneider offering many opportunities, drivers can enjoy beautiful coastal views. The city's strong economy supports a steady demand for freight services.
Find Owner Operator jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $391,457
Topeka offers a mix of flat and hilly terrains, providing a varied driving experience. Companies like Swift Transportation offer reliable routes. The city's central location makes it a key spot for cross-country hauls.
Find Owner Operator jobs in Topeka, KS
-
Clarksville, TN
Average Salary: $384,800
Clarksville's routes offer a mix of urban and rural driving. Companies like Landstar System provide many opportunities. The city's growing economy supports a steady demand for freight services.
Find Owner Operator jobs in Clarksville, TN
-
Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $381,292
Allentown's routes offer a mix of urban and rural driving. Companies like ABF Freight offer many opportunities. The city's central location makes it a key spot for cross-country hauls.
Find Owner Operator jobs in Allentown, PA
-
Durham, NC
Average Salary: $381,261
Durham's routes offer a mix of urban and rural driving. Companies like J.B. Hunt Transport offer many opportunities. The city's growing economy supports a steady demand for freight services.
Find Owner Operator jobs in Durham, NC
-
Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $380,010
Lansing offers a mix of flat and hilly terrains, providing a varied driving experience. Companies like Knight Transportation offer reliable routes. The city's central location makes it a key spot for cross-country hauls.
Find Owner Operator jobs in Lansing, MI
-
Amarillo, TX
Average Salary: $366,693
Amarillo's routes offer a mix of flat and hilly terrains, providing a varied driving experience. Companies like Covenant offer many opportunities. The city's central location makes it a key spot for cross-country hauls.
Find Owner Operator jobs in Amarillo, TX
-
Lincoln, NE
Average Salary: $363,594
Lincoln offers a mix of flat and hilly terrains, providing a varied driving experience. Companies like Werner Enterprises offer reliable routes. The city's central location makes it a key spot for cross-country hauls.
Find Owner Operator jobs in Lincoln, NE
-
Columbus, GA
Average Salary: $362,583
Columbus's routes offer a mix of urban and rural driving. Companies like C.R. England offer many opportunities. The city's growing economy supports a steady demand for freight services.
Find Owner Operator jobs in Columbus, GA
What are the best companies a Owner Operator can work for?

-
Veltri, Inc.
Average Salary: $536,705
Veltri, Inc. offers rewarding Owner Operator jobs with a strong focus on safety and reliability. They operate in various locations, including New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Their fleet is well-maintained, and they provide excellent support and training for their operators.
-
Go Logistics
Average Salary: $406,348
Go Logistics provides competitive Owner Operator jobs with a focus on customer satisfaction. They operate across multiple states, including California, Texas, and Florida. Go Logistics offers a supportive environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
-
KLM Trans Inc.
Average Salary: $364,000
KLM Trans Inc. offers Owner Operator jobs with a strong emphasis on teamwork and professionalism. They operate in the Midwest, covering states like Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Their company culture values hard work and dedication, providing a stable and rewarding work environment.
-
Tennessee Steel Haulers
Average Salary: $364,000
Tennessee Steel Haulers provides Owner Operator jobs with a focus on quality and efficiency. They operate in the southeastern United States, with a strong presence in Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia. Their commitment to safety and customer service makes them a top choice for many operators.
-
Arepet Express
Average Salary: $351,000
Arepet Express offers Owner Operator jobs with a strong emphasis on reliability and customer service. They operate in the Northeast, covering states like New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Their company culture values hard work and dedication, providing a stable and rewarding work environment.
-
Page Transportation & Page E.T.C.
Average Salary: $304,258
Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. provides Owner Operator jobs with a focus on safety and efficiency. They operate in the Midwest, covering states like Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. Their company culture values teamwork and professionalism, making it a great place to work.
-
American Global Express
Average Salary: $286,000
American Global Express offers Owner Operator jobs with a strong emphasis on customer service. They operate in the southeastern United States, with a strong presence in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Their commitment to safety and quality makes them a top choice for many operators.
-
National Retail Systems, Inc
Average Salary: $257,563
National Retail Systems, Inc. provides Owner Operator jobs with a focus on innovation and efficiency. They operate in the Northeast, covering states like New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Their company culture values hard work and dedication, providing a stable and rewarding work environment.
-
Empire National
Average Salary: $249,069
Empire National offers Owner Operator jobs with a strong emphasis on safety and reliability. They operate in the northeastern United States, covering states like New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Their company culture values teamwork and professionalism, making it a great place to work.
-
West Motor Freight
Average Salary: $242,643
West Motor Freight provides Owner Operator jobs with a focus on quality and efficiency. They operate in the Midwest, covering states like Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Their company culture values hard work and dedication, providing a stable and rewarding work environment.
How to earn more as a Owner Operator?
Becoming an owner operator can lead to a rewarding career. To earn more, focus on key areas that can boost income. One important factor is choosing the right niche. Specializing in a specific type of freight or service can attract more clients and allow for higher rates. Another factor is maintaining a clean driving record. Fewer accidents and violations can lead to lower insurance costs and better rates from clients.
Investing in the right equipment is also crucial. Reliable trucks and trailers can reduce downtime and increase efficiency. Regular maintenance keeps vehicles in good condition and avoids costly repairs. Building strong relationships with clients can also lead to repeat business and referrals. Good communication and quality service can turn one-time clients into long-term partners. Finally, managing finances wisely can make a big difference. Keeping track of expenses and finding ways to cut costs can increase profit margins.
By focusing on these factors, owner operators can improve their earnings and build a successful business. Each step plays a role in creating a more profitable and sustainable operation.
- Choose a niche
- Maintain a clean driving record
- Invest in reliable equipment
- Build strong client relationships
- Manage finances wisely



