Trades & Labor Washington (WA) Rank #6 of 50

Truck Driver Salary in Washington

The median truck driver salary in Washington is $59,405 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $49,920.

Median Salary
$59,405
vs National
+$9,485
State Rank
#6 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Truck Driver Salary Overview in Washington (2026)

Washington ranks #6 out of 50 states for truck driver compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for truck drivers seeking high pay. At $59,405 per year, truck drivers in Washington earn $9,485 more than the national median of $49,920.

It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $59,405 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $51,657.

The salary spread in Washington is significant: truck drivers at the 10th percentile earn $39,508, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $92,820 — a $53,312 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Washington for this role is Bellevue, where the median reaches $77,875.

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 Washington by Experience

In Washington, an entry-level truck driver earns around $41,650, while experienced professionals earn up to $85,680 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$41,650
+$6,650 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$59,500
+$9,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$85,680
+$13,680 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Washington

Percentile WA Salary
10th Percentile $39,508
25th Percentile $47,838
Median (50th) $59,405
75th Percentile $75,922
90th Percentile $92,820

Truck Driver Salary by City in Washington

The largest employment areas for truck drivers in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Truck Driver in Washington

Education

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

Key Skills

CDL LicenseRoute PlanningVehicle InspectionDOT RegulationsTime ManagementDefensive Driving

Job Outlook in Washington

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Truck Driver Salary in Washington

How much does a Truck Driver make in Washington? ▼
The median truck driver salary in Washington is $59,405 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $49,920. Salaries range from $39,508 (10th percentile) to $92,820 (90th percentile).
How much does a Truck Driver make per hour in Washington? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $59,405, a truck driver in Washington earns approximately $29 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Washington a good state for truck drivers? ▼
Washington ranks #6 out of 50 states for truck driver pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level truck drivers earn $41,650, while senior professionals earn $85,680.
How does Washington compare to other states for truck driver salary? ▼
The highest paying state for truck drivers is Hawaii at $88,858. Washington's median of $59,405 ranks #6 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Alaska ($66,893) and New York ($60,902).
What is the entry-level truck driver salary in Washington? ▼
An entry-level truck driver in Washington earns approximately $41,650 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $59,500. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $85,680.
What city in Washington pays truck drivers the most? ▼
Bellevue is the highest paying city in Washington for truck drivers, with a median salary of $77,875. Other cities include Seattle and Spokane.