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How Much Do Commercial Truck Drivers Make in Ohio?

  • Writer: Emily Parker
    Emily Parker
  • May 2
  • 3 min read

Ohio’s trucking industry is a key driver of the state's economy, supporting manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, and construction. With strong demand for CDL drivers, competitive wages, and year-round freight, Ohio is an excellent place to launch or advance your trucking career. Here's what you can expect to earn — and how CDL eXpert can help you succeed.


Average Truck Driver Salaries in Ohio

Truck driver salaries in Ohio vary depending on experience, endorsements, job type, and location. Based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data and Ohio-specific job reports, here’s what drivers typically earn:

  • Entry-Level Drivers – New CDL holders in Ohio usually earn between $45,000 and $55,000 per year.

  • Experienced Drivers – With three to five years of experience, earnings rise to $60,000 to $80,000 per year.

  • Class A CDL Drivers – Long-haul and specialized Class A drivers average between $70,000 and $90,000 annually.

  • Owner-Operators – Independent drivers can make between $155,000 and $230,000+ per year, depending on expenses, routes, and freight type.


Check out our article on the cost of obtaining your CDL in Ohio to learn more.


Top-Paying Cities and Regions for Truck Drivers in Ohio

Some regions in Ohio offer higher wages due to freight demand, proximity to major logistics hubs, and cost of living:

  • Cincinnati Metro Area – A major logistics and distribution hub, drivers here often earn $75,000 to $95,000 annually.

  • Columbus & Central Ohio – With strong warehousing and manufacturing sectors, wages typically range from $68,000 to $90,000 per year.

  • Cleveland & Northeast Ohio – Port operations and manufacturing drive salaries between $65,000 and $88,000.

  • Dayton and Southwest Ohio – Long-haul and regional drivers can expect to earn $66,000 to $85,000 per year.


High-Paying Industries for CDL Drivers in Ohio

Ohio drivers can maximize their earnings by targeting industries that consistently pay more:

  • Manufacturing Freight – Transporting machinery, auto parts, and steel often leads to higher pay.

  • Agricultural Freight – Refrigerated freight and grain hauling throughout Central and Northwest Ohio boost seasonal earnings.

  • Hazardous Materials (HazMat) and Tanker Transport – Drivers hauling fuel, chemicals, or hazardous waste can earn 10–30% more than general freight drivers.

  • Construction & Heavy Equipment Hauling – Drivers moving oversized loads, concrete, and heavy equipment benefit from Ohio’s ongoing infrastructure projects.


Factors That Influence Truck Driver Salaries in Ohio

Several factors impact how much truck drivers can make:

  • Experience – More driving experience generally leads to higher wages and better routes.

  • Endorsements – HazMat, Tanker, Doubles/Triples, and TWIC endorsements open access to specialized, higher-paying jobs.

  • Freight Type – Specialized freight typically offers higher pay compared to dry van freight.

  • Local vs. Long-Haul Routes – Regional and OTR (over-the-road) jobs usually pay more than local delivery positions.


How to Maximize Your Earnings as a Truck Driver in Ohio

Boost your income as a CDL driver in Ohio by following these strategies:

  • Earn Endorsements – Adding HazMat, Tanker, and Doubles/Triples can make you eligible for premium freight jobs.

  • Target High-Paying Industries – Focus on manufacturing freight, chemical hauling, or construction projects.

  • Look for Bonuses – Many Ohio trucking companies offer sign-on, retention, and safety bonuses.

  • Consider Regional or OTR Positions – Long-haul routes typically come with higher annual salaries.

  • Explore Owner-Operator Opportunities – Running your own truck offers greater earning potential in Ohio's strong freight market.


Why Trucking Is a Stable Career in Ohio

Ohio is a major freight corridor for the Midwest and East Coast, making trucking essential to the state’s economy. Key sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics heavily depend on CDL drivers to keep goods moving efficiently. The state’s network of highways, rail yards, and ports, combined with seasonal freight spikes, ensures strong, year-round opportunities for truck drivers.

Major developments, including new fulfillment centers and infrastructure upgrades, continue to expand job availability across the state.


How CDL eXpert Helps You Succeed in Ohio

CDL eXpert is dedicated to helping Ohio truck drivers start, grow, and thrive in their careers.

  • FMCSA-Approved ELDT Training – Our online Entry-Level Driver Training program meets all federal standards for Class A and Class B CDLs​.

  • Flexible Online Learning – Study anytime, anywhere, on your phone or computer​.

  • Job Placement Assistance – We help connect you with high-paying trucking jobs in Ohio after certification​.

  • Affordable Training Options – Scholarships, grants, and payment plans are available to make starting your career easier​​.

Don’t wait — enroll today and start your journey toward a high-paying trucking career in Ohio with CDL eXpert!


FAQs

What is the average salary for truck drivers in Ohio? Truck drivers in Ohio typically earn between $45,000 and $90,000 per year, depending on experience, endorsements, and freight type.

How can I increase my earnings as a truck driver in Ohio? Obtain CDL endorsements, gain specialized experience, and focus on high-paying freight sectors like manufacturing or HazMat transport.

Which areas in Ohio offer the best pay for truck drivers? Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland metro areas are among the top-paying regions for CDL drivers in Ohio.


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