Trades & Labor New Mexico (NM) Rank #32 of 50

Truck Driver Salary in New Mexico

The median truck driver salary in New Mexico is $46,426 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $49,920.

Median Salary
$46,426
vs National
$-3,494
State Rank
#32 of 50
Cost of Living
93%

Truck Driver Salary Overview in New Mexico (2026)

New Mexico ranks #32 out of 50 states for truck driver compensation. Truck Driver salaries in New Mexico are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $46,426 per year, truck drivers in New Mexico earn $3,494 less than the national median of $49,920.

A key advantage of working in New Mexico is its below-average cost of living (93% of the national index). This means the $46,426 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,920 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in New Mexico is significant: truck drivers at the 10th percentile earn $30,876, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $72,540 — a $41,664 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Mexico for this role is Santa Fe, where the median reaches $54,912.

Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for truck drivers across the country.

Truck Driver Salary in New Mexico by Experience

In New Mexico, an entry-level truck driver earns around $32,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $66,960 per year. The cost of living index in New Mexico is 93% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$32,550
$-2,450 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$46,500
$-3,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$66,960
$-5,040 vs national

Save More on Student Loans

Earning $46,426? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.

Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →

Salary Percentiles in New Mexico

Percentile NM Salary
10th Percentile $30,876
25th Percentile $37,386
Median (50th) $46,426
75th Percentile $59,334
90th Percentile $72,540

Truck Driver Salary by City in New Mexico

The largest employment areas for truck drivers in New Mexico include Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Truck Driver in New Mexico

Education

Most truck driver positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. New Mexico has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

CDL LicenseRoute PlanningVehicle InspectionDOT RegulationsTime ManagementDefensive Driving

Job Outlook in New Mexico

Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). New Mexico's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Stand Out from the Competition

85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 2,157,700 other Truck Drivers.

Get a Professional Resume →

Open to Truck Driver Roles in New Mexico?

Get matched with recruiters hiring truck drivers in New Mexico at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Truck Driver Salary in New Mexico

How much does a Truck Driver make in New Mexico? ▼
The median truck driver salary in New Mexico is $46,426 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $49,920. Salaries range from $30,876 (10th percentile) to $72,540 (90th percentile).
How much does a Truck Driver make per hour in New Mexico? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $46,426, a truck driver in New Mexico earns approximately $22 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Mexico a good state for truck drivers? ▼
New Mexico ranks #32 out of 50 states for truck driver pay. The cost of living index is 93% of the national average. Entry-level truck drivers earn $32,550, while senior professionals earn $66,960.
How does New Mexico compare to other states for truck driver salary? ▼
The highest paying state for truck drivers is Hawaii at $88,858. New Mexico's median of $46,426 ranks #32 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Idaho ($46,925) and Georgia ($46,426).
What is the entry-level truck driver salary in New Mexico? ▼
An entry-level truck driver in New Mexico earns approximately $32,550 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $46,500. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $66,960.
What city in New Mexico pays truck drivers the most? ▼
Santa Fe is the highest paying city in New Mexico for truck drivers, with a median salary of $54,912. Other cities include Albuquerque and Las Cruces.