Trades & Labor New York (NY) Rank #5 of 50

Truck Driver Salary in New York

The median truck driver salary in New York is $60,902 per year, which is 22.0% above the national median of $49,920.

Median Salary
$60,902
vs National
+$10,982
State Rank
#5 of 50
Cost of Living
122%

Truck Driver Salary Overview in New York (2026)

New York ranks #5 out of 50 states for truck driver compensation. This places New York in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for truck drivers seeking high pay. At $60,902 per year, truck drivers in New York earn $10,982 more than the national median of $49,920.

It's worth noting that New York's cost of living is 122% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $60,902 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $49,920.

The salary spread in New York is significant: truck drivers at the 10th percentile earn $40,504, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $95,160 — a $54,656 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New York for this role is New York City, where the median reaches $93,350.

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 York by Experience

In New York, an entry-level truck driver earns around $42,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,840 per year. The cost of living index in New York is 122% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$42,700
+$7,700 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$61,000
+$11,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$87,840
+$15,840 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in New York

Percentile NY Salary
10th Percentile $40,504
25th Percentile $49,044
Median (50th) $60,902
75th Percentile $77,836
90th Percentile $95,160

Truck Driver Salary by City in New York

The largest employment areas for truck drivers in New York include New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Yonkers. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Truck Driver in New York

Education

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

Key Skills

CDL LicenseRoute PlanningVehicle InspectionDOT RegulationsTime ManagementDefensive Driving

Job Outlook in New York

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Truck Driver Salary in New York

How much does a Truck Driver make in New York? ▼
The median truck driver salary in New York is $60,902 per year, which is 22.0% above the national median of $49,920. Salaries range from $40,504 (10th percentile) to $95,160 (90th percentile).
How much does a Truck Driver make per hour in New York? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $60,902, a truck driver in New York earns approximately $29 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New York a good state for truck drivers? ▼
New York ranks #5 out of 50 states for truck driver pay. The cost of living index is 122% of the national average. Entry-level truck drivers earn $42,700, while senior professionals earn $87,840.
How does New York compare to other states for truck driver salary? ▼
The highest paying state for truck drivers is Hawaii at $88,858. New York's median of $60,902 ranks #5 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Massachusetts ($67,392) and Alaska ($66,893).
What is the entry-level truck driver salary in New York? ▼
An entry-level truck driver in New York earns approximately $42,700 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $61,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $87,840.
What city in New York pays truck drivers the most? ▼
New York City is the highest paying city in New York for truck drivers, with a median salary of $93,350. Other cities include Buffalo and Rochester.