How much does a Transportation Worker make?
Transportation workers have a key role in our economy, helping move people and goods across the nation. On average, transportation workers earn about $43,141 per year. This figure changes based on experience, education, and specific job duties. For example, someone with less experience may start at a lower salary while a more experienced worker can earn more.
Here are some common salary ranges for transportation jobs:
- Bus drivers earn between $30,000 and $33,520.
- Heavy vehicle operators make about $37,040 to $40,560.
- Pilots can earn anywhere from $61,680 to $65,200 or more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Transportation Worker?

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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $50,150
In Tucson, transportation roles often involve working with prominent companies like Greyhound and local public transit. The warm climate and growing population provide steady job opportunities. Employees enjoy a mix of city and desert landscapes, making commutes pleasant.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $47,231
Raleigh offers a bustling environment for those in transportation. Companies such as Capital Area Transit and Greyhound offer solid career paths. Raleigh’s expanding tech scene and moderate climate make it a favorable place for transportation jobs. The city’s layout and public transport options make commuting easy.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $42,218
Anchorage’s transportation sector is crucial due to its geography. Companies like Alaska Railroad and local transit services provide essential roles. The harsh climate demands resilience, but it also offers unique challenges and rewards. Anchorage's vast landscapes and reliable job market create a dynamic work environment.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $41,565
Chicago is a major hub for transportation, with companies like the Chicago Transit Authority and Metra offering diverse roles. The city’s extensive public transport system presents numerous opportunities. Chicago’s diverse population and vibrant culture enrich the work experience, making it a dynamic place for transportation jobs.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $38,607
Tampa’s transportation sector thrives with companies such as Amtrak and Hillsborough Area Regional Transit. The warm climate and growing tourism industry create a steady demand for transportation roles. Tampa’s beaches and family-friendly environment offer a great work-life balance, making it an attractive place for transport workers.
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What are the best companies a Transportation Worker can work for?

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State of Georgia
Average Salary: $60,150
The State of Georgia offers competitive salaries for Transportation Workers. These positions manage highways, public transport, and infrastructure across the state. Workers can expect roles in various locations, including Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta.
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Adams County Colorado
Average Salary: $59,923
Adams County Colorado provides good opportunities for Transportation Workers. They manage road maintenance, traffic management, and public transport. Employees work in Denver and its surrounding areas, ensuring smooth transportation services.
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Adams County
Average Salary: $57,712
Adams County offers jobs for Transportation Workers who maintain roads and public transport. These positions are located in various towns and cities within the county, contributing to better transportation infrastructure.
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State of Tennessee
Average Salary: $50,663
The State of Tennessee pays well for Transportation Workers. They handle a variety of tasks, from road maintenance to public transport operations. Workers can find roles in Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, supporting the state's transportation needs.
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Sheboygan County
Average Salary: $49,818
Sheboygan County provides jobs for Transportation Workers, focusing on road maintenance and public transport. Workers in this county serve areas like Sheboygan, ensuring local transportation is well-managed.
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State of North Carolina
Average Salary: $46,523
The State of North Carolina offers jobs for Transportation Workers with a focus on infrastructure and public transport. Positions are available in major cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, providing essential services across the state.
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City Of Montrose
Average Salary: $44,489
The City Of Montrose offers roles for Transportation Workers, managing local roads and public transport. Workers ensure smooth transportation services in Montrose, contributing to the city's infrastructure.
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West Virginia Department of Transportation (WV)
Average Salary: $41,240
The West Virginia Department of Transportation provides jobs for Transportation Workers focusing on road maintenance and public transport. Workers in this department serve various locations across the state, ensuring connectivity and safety.
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State of Maine
Average Salary: $40,312
The State of Maine offers opportunities for Transportation Workers to maintain roads and public transport. These positions are located in cities like Portland and Bangor, supporting the state's transportation needs.
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West Virginia Department of Transportation
Average Salary: $40,290
The West Virginia Department of Transportation offers jobs for Transportation Workers, focusing on road maintenance and public transport. Workers serve various locations across the state, ensuring essential transportation services.
How to earn more as a Transportation Worker?
A transportation worker can find several ways to increase earnings. By focusing on the right strategies, it is possible to improve income over time. This article outlines key steps that can lead to higher pay in the transportation sector.
One of the most effective ways to increase earnings is through gaining experience and expertise. Specialized skills, such as operating heavy machinery or delivering hazardous materials, can command higher wages. Training and certification in these areas can lead to better job opportunities and pay raises. Another way to boost income is by working in high-demand areas or during peak hours. These jobs often offer higher wages to compensate for the challenges and time constraints.
Additionally, seeking advancement within a company can lead to higher pay. Many transportation companies offer promotions and salary increases based on performance and time served. Networking and building good relationships with supervisors and coworkers can also create opportunities for advancement. Seeking out jobs with benefits that include bonuses or profit-sharing can further increase earnings. Lastly, considering alternative transportation roles, such as a truck driver with a CDL, often provides higher salaries compared to entry-level positions. These roles often require more responsibility and skill.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Gain specialized skills and certifications
- Choose high-demand routes and times
- Seek promotions and career advancement
- Look for jobs with benefits and bonuses
- Consider roles that require higher qualifications



