Truck Driver Salary in South Dakota
The median truck driver salary in South Dakota is $43,930 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $49,920.
Truck Driver Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)
South Dakota ranks #44 out of 50 states for truck driver compensation. Truck Driver salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $43,930 per year, truck drivers in South Dakota earn $5,990 less than the national median of $49,920.
A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $43,930 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,920 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: truck drivers at the 10th percentile earn $29,216, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $68,640 — a $39,424 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Dakota for this role is Sioux Falls, where the median reaches $45,926.
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 South Dakota by Experience
In South Dakota, an entry-level truck driver earns around $30,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $63,360 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in South Dakota
| Percentile | SD Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,216 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,376 |
| Median (50th) | $43,930 |
| 75th Percentile | $56,144 |
| 90th Percentile | $68,640 |
Truck Driver Salary by City in South Dakota
The largest employment areas for truck drivers in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Brookings. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Truck Driver in South Dakota
Education
Most truck driver positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Dakota
Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). South Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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