Thinking about a career as a commercial truck driver in North Carolina? The state’s growing trucking industry offers competitive pay and a promising job market for drivers at every level. Whether you’re new to the field or have experience, North Carolina offers plenty of opportunities for growth and a solid income. Here’s a breakdown of truck driver salaries in North Carolina and how CDL eXpert’s ELDT program can help you get started.
Average Salary for Truck Drivers in North Carolina
As of 2024, the average salary for truck drivers in North Carolina is around $61,500 annually. However, earnings vary widely based on experience, location, and endorsements:
Entry-Level Drivers: Begin around $47,700 per year.
Experienced Drivers: Mid-career drivers earn about $61,500 annually, with seasoned drivers reaching up to $89,600.
CDL Truck Drivers: With a Class A CDL, drivers earn an average of $83,600, with top salaries reaching $111,150, depending on hours and endorsements.
Check out our article on the cost of obtaining your CDL in North Carolina to learn more.
Top-Paying Cities for Truck Drivers in North Carolina
To maximize earnings, consider working in North Carolina’s highest-paying cities. Here’s a look at the best-paying areas for truck drivers:
New Bern: $91,192 annually
Greenville: $91,192 per year
Wilmington: $91,021 per year
Chapel Hill: $90,410 per year
Durham: $89,802 per year
These cities offer higher pay due to strong local demand, a concentration of transport-dependent industries, and higher living costs.
Factors That Affect Your Salary in North Carolina
Several factors influence your earning potential as a truck driver in North Carolina:
Experience: Experienced drivers earn more.
CDL Class: A Class A CDL, which qualifies drivers to operate larger vehicles, significantly raises income potential.
Endorsements: Specializations, like HazMat or Tanker endorsements, can add to your earnings. Drivers with endorsements frequently earn top-tier salaries, often over $75,000
Owner-Operators: Independent drivers in North Carolina have the potential to make over $95,000, though they are responsible for operating expenses.
Other Earning Opportunities
In North Carolina, truckers have various ways to increase their income:
Sign-On Bonuses: Some companies offer bonuses ranging from $1,000 to $7,000.
Overtime Pay: Long-haul and overtime options provide a great opportunity for higher earnings.
Referral Bonuses: Many employers offer bonuses for bringing new hires on board.
Job Demand in North Carolina
The demand for CDL drivers in North Carolina is high, particularly in sectors like retail, agriculture, and hazardous materials transportation. With an aging workforce and increased demand for goods, this career path offers long-term job security and advancement.
How CDL eXpert Can Help You Earn More
CDL eXpert offers training that maximizes your earning potential as a truck driver in North Carolina:
Comprehensive Training: Our ELDT courses cover all the essentials and prepare you for HazMat and Tanker endorsements.
Job Placement Support: Over 95% of CDL eXpert graduates receive job offers within weeks of completing their CDL training.
Ready to Start Your Trucking Career?
CDL eXpert’s affordable and convenient online ELDT program can help you earn your CDL and secure a high-paying job in weeks. Don’t wait—your future in North Carolina’s trucking industry is within reach!
FAQ
What’s the average salary for truck drivers in North Carolina? The average salary is around $61,500 per year, with top earners making up to $89,600. CDL drivers with endorsements can earn even more, averaging about $83,600.
How can I increase my earnings as a truck driver? Gain experience, get endorsements like HazMat, or consider becoming an owner-operator to increase your income potential.
What are the best-paying cities for truck drivers in North Carolina? Cities like New Bern, Greenville, and Wilmington offer some of the highest pay for truck drivers in North Carolina.
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