Trades & Labor Lake Charles, LA Pop. 80,000

Truck Driver Salary in Lake Charles, Louisiana

The median truck driver salary in Lake Charles, LA is $45,427 per year, which is 9% below the national median and 5.2% below the Louisiana state average.

City Median
$45,427
vs State Avg
$-2,496
vs National
$-4,493
Cost of Living
86%

Truck Driver Salary in Lake Charles by Experience

In Lake Charles, an entry-level truck driver earns around $31,850, while experienced professionals earn up to $65,520 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$31,850
$-3,150 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$45,500
$-4,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$65,520
$-6,480 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Lake Charles, LA

Percentile Lake Charles
10th Percentile $30,212
25th Percentile $36,582
Median (50th) $45,427
75th Percentile $58,058
90th Percentile $70,980

Truck Driver Salary in Other Louisiana Cities

New Orleans, LA
$51,418
Pop. 383,997
Baton Rouge, LA
$48,422
Pop. 227,470
Lafayette, LA
$46,426
Pop. 121,374
Shreveport, LA
$44,928
Pop. 187,593

How to Become a Truck Driver in Lake Charles

Education

Most truck driver positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Lake Charles and the surrounding Louisiana area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

CDL LicenseRoute PlanningVehicle InspectionDOT RegulationsTime ManagementDefensive Driving

Job Outlook

Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Lake Charles may vary based on local industry and population growth.