Truck Driver Salary in North Carolina
Based on 62K+ workers in North Carolina
Median Annual Salary (NC)
$51,530
$24.77/hr
vs National Average
$58,233
-11.5% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$39K – $76K
62K employed in North Carolina
The median Truck Driver salary in North Carolina is $51,530 per year, which translates to approximately $25 per hour. This figure is 11.5% lower than the national average, with a substantial number of over 62,400 individuals employed in this vital role across the state.
Several factors can influence the Truck Driver salary in North Carolina. Experience level, the specific type of trucking (e.g., long-haul, local delivery, specialized hauling), and the employer's location within the state all play a significant role. The total compensation package may also include benefits beyond the base salary.
Salary Distribution — Truck Driver in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $39,400 |
| 25th percentile | $46,320 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $51,530 |
| 75th percentile | $62,640 |
| 90th percentile | $76,360 |
Top-Paying Industries for Truck Driver (U.S.)
Which industries pay Truck Drivers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Truck Drivers in North Carolina tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $65,810 | 2K |
| Information | $63,030 | 1K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $61,740 | 10K |
| Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation | $60,100 | 960 |
| Transportation and Warehousing | $60,030 | 1.2M |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Truck Driver in North Carolina vs National
| Year | Median Salary (North Carolina) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $51,530 |
| 2026 (projected) | $53,076 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | North Carolina Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $51,530 | $58,233 |
| 2026 (projected) | $53,076 | $59,980 |
Truck Driver Salary by Experience Level in North Carolina
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $46,320 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $51,530 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $62,640 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $76,360 |
Truck Driver Salary in Other States
Related Truck Driver Salaries in North Carolina
How other high-demand occupations in North Carolina compare to Truck Driver ($51,530 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Truck Driver | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stocker and Order Filler in NC | $35,950 | -30.2% | $17.28/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in NC | $51,240 | -0.6% | $24.63/hr |
| Middle School Teacher in NC | $52,010 | +0.9% | $25.00/hr |
| Title Examiner in NC | $50,500 | -2.0% | $24.28/hr |
| Dental Assistant in NC | $50,380 | -2.2% | $24.22/hr |
| Real Estate Broker in NC | $52,830 | +2.5% | $25.40/hr |
| Kindergarten Teacher in NC | $53,180 | +3.2% | $25.57/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in NC | $48,200 | -6.5% | $23.17/hr |
| Elementary School Teacher in NC | $54,930 | +6.6% | $26.41/hr |
| Bookkeeper in NC | $47,930 | -7.0% | $23.04/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in NC | $47,910 | -7.0% | $23.03/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in NC | $55,490 | +7.7% | $26.68/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Truck Driver salary in North Carolina?
- The median Truck Driver salary in North Carolina is $51,530 annually. This means half of all truck drivers in the state earn less than this amount, while the other half earn more.
How much do entry-level truck drivers make in North Carolina?
- For those starting out, the lower end of the salary range for a Truck Driver in North Carolina is around $39,400 per year. This figure typically reflects less experience and potentially local or entry-level routes.
What is the highest earning potential for a Truck Driver in North Carolina?
- Experienced truck drivers in North Carolina with specialized skills or working for companies offering higher pay can earn up to $76,360 per year. This upper range reflects extensive experience and demanding routes.
Is the Truck Driver salary in North Carolina lower than the national average?
- Yes, the Truck Driver salary in North Carolina is 11.5% lower than the national average. While the median is $51,530 annually, the national median is higher.